`Uniquely bad`: Chuck Norris returned to action movies with this film, but viewers panned it with low ratings

That case when it wasn't worth returning to the big screens.

Chuck Norris is a name synonymous for many with coolness and 80s action films. His signature spin kicks, rugged image, and charisma made him an icon of the genre. After a cameo yet memorable role in The Expendables 2 (2012), it seemed that the 72-year-old (at the time) actor had retired, leaving behind a rich legacy.
Actor Chuck Norris in a cowboy hat
Chuck Norris
But more than ten years later, the 84-year-old returned to the big screen in the science fiction action film "Agent Recon" (2024), where he played a commander defending Earth. Unfortunately, this comeback turned into a resounding failure.

About the Movie

"Agent Recon" tells the story of a group of military personnel investigating mysterious events at a secret base in New Mexico. Suspicions fall on experiments with alien technologies. Upon arrival, the team encounters an unknown creature possessing superhuman strength and speed, as well as the ability to control an army of mindless soldiers.

The film seemed to have potential: the return of a legend, a fantastic plot, battles. But something (or rather, many things) went wrong.
"Agent Recon" – trailer

Weary Actor

For most of the movie, Chuck Norris is on screen more in name than in action. Only in the finale is he given a chance to "show his old skills": firing a minigun and demonstrating a few strikes.

As viewers note, the comeback was unconvincing and even sad. Some call his role one of the worst comebacks on the big screen.
Chuck Norris in camouflage in the movie 'Agent Recon'
Filming of 'Agent Recon'
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Criticism

Viewers are not shy in expressing their impressions of "Agent Recon." The main criticisms are as follows:
  • Weak script and direction: the film is described as pointless, boring, and poorly shot.
  • Terrible acting: not only director and screenwriter Derek Tin received criticism, but other actors as well.
  • Chuck Norris: the action legend appears little on screen, and his role is uninspiring.
You can say something about a truly disastrous movie that will forever remain in your memory because it is so uniquely bad that it can be considered an achievement. … How can you mess up so badly when you have Chuck Norris?
Reviewer ThisIsMovieMadness from 'Imdb'
Other viewers add that the acting of all the characters gives them an "awkward sense of shame" comparable to torture. Some even plan to watch the film to fall asleep faster, as it turned out to be so boring.
I decided to warn people about this movie so they don't make the same mistake I did and watch it. I thought this movie would be decent since it starred Chuck Norris. It turned out to be one of the worst movies I've ever seen. The fight scenes are tasteless and fake. The plot is awful. I can't recall a single positive moment in this film.
Reviewer ThisIsMovieMadness from 'Imdb'
Many viewers express regret that the actor agreed to participate in this project and believe the film insults his legacy. Some praise Marc Singer (he played one of Chuck's partners), but that's not enough to save the film.

Opinion

We believe that "Agent Recon" has become a vivid example of how not to bring legends back to the screen. The film not only failed to meet expectations but also caused a wave of negativity and disappointment.

It seems that Chuck Norris, whom we remember and love, is left in the past, and "Agent Recon" is a sad attempt to regain former glory, resulting in a complete failure.

Should cinema legends return to the screen in their later years, or is it better to preserve their memory in their best works?