Article Overview
Chuck Norris, known for his roles in '80s action films, is returning to the action genre after 12 years in the upcoming film Agent Recon.
Norris emerged as a prominent contender alongside Stallone and Schwarzenegger in the race for the title of the third most prominent action star during the 1980s.
Alongside his success in action films, Norris further solidified his image as a formidable individual through his popular television series, Walker, Texas Ranger, and his subsequent endeavors in family-oriented movies.
Expendables 2 star Chuck Norris makes a triumphant return to the action genre after 12 years with his upcoming film, Agent Recon. Known for his early work alongside Bruce Lee as a stunt performer, Norris went on to become an iconic action movie legend with films like Lone Wolf McQuade, The Octagon, and Missing in Action. He later found immense success as the star of the long-running TV series Walker, Texas Ranger and gained viral fame through internet memes that celebrated his tough-guy persona.
After his previous appearance in the Expendables franchise, Norris is back in action movies with Agent Recon. The film, which has recently wrapped up shooting, teams Norris up with actors Marc Singer and Derek Ting, with Ting also directing. Set to release in North America in 2024, Agent Recon combines military and science fiction elements in an exhilarating action-packed experience. Notably, Norris' own son, Dakota, takes charge of choreographing all his 83-year-old father's fight sequences. With high anticipation, the movie's synopsis can be summarized as follows:
Norris Was Arguably The Third-Biggest Action Star of the ‘80s (Behind Stallone and Schwarzenegger)
Alastair (Norris), the leader of a secret Earth security force, enlists the help of super-powered newcomer Jim (Ting) to join a mission commanded by battle-hardened Colonel Green (Singer) and his experienced marines. Their objective is to investigate a suspicious energy disturbance at a New Mexico base rumored to be experimenting with alien technology. As the team confronts an unknown entity with extraordinary physical abilities and the power to control mindless warriors, they must overcome relentless hordes to unravel the truth behind the hostile alien stronghold and prevent the downfall of humanity.
Stallone and Schwarzenegger, the iconic action heroes of the 1980s, undoubtedly dominated the industry. Yet, the question arises as to who claims the third spot, and Norris emerges as one of the prominent contenders. Despite not appearing in colossal blockbusters, the Delta Force star had a fruitful career in smaller-budget action films, many of which were produced by the legendary Cannon Films. Notably, Norris possessed authentic martial arts expertise, granting him a winning advantage in the battle against other action stars of that era.
At one point, Norris' action output was quite violent and R-rated. However, his image later softened with family-friendly movies like Sidekicks and the hugely popular TV series Walker, Texas Ranger. Today, Norris' reputation as a tough guy is heavily influenced by his TV show rather than his somewhat forgotten '80s films. Nevertheless, Norris' pre-Walker output is highly regarded by fans of B-movie action due to strong genre examples such as The Octagon, Silent Rage, Lone Wolf McQuade, and Missing in Action. Now, with Agent Recon, it appears that Norris is eager to return to the spotlight, as this is his first action film in 12 years.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I grew up watching action movies from the 1980s and 1990s, and Chuck Norris was one of my favorite action stars. I remember watching his movies with my dad and being amazed by his martial arts skills and his ability to take on any opponent. I'm excited to see him make a comeback to the action movie scene after a 12-year hiatus.
I think it's great that Norris is still making movies at the age of 83. He's an inspiration to me and to other Gen Z netizens who grew up watching his movies. I'm sure that his new movie, Agent Recon, will be a hit with fans of action movies. I'm looking forward to seeing it when it comes out in 2024.