Jean-Claude Van Damme, the Muscles from Brussels, the Timecop himself, is back in The Gardener (2025), a film that blends action and comedy with a dash of brutal violence. This isn’t your grandma’s gardening film; instead, it’s a wild ride filled with eccentric characters, explosive fight sequences, and a healthy dose of absurdist humor. Directed by David Charhon, who previously worked with Van Damme on The Last Mercenary, The Gardener sees the iconic action star return to his comedic roots, delivering a performance that’s both hilarious and badass.
The Gardener (2025)
The Gardener centers around Leo (Jean-Claude Van Damme), a mysterious and highly skilled individual who finds solace in the tranquil world of gardening. He tends to the sprawling estate of Serge Shuster (Michaël Youn), a Special Adviser to the President of France, whose eccentricities and questionable qualifications make him a target for assassination.
Unbeknownst to Serge and his dysfunctional family, a covert ops team has been dispatched to eliminate him as part of an annual culling of troublesome figures. This sets the stage for a chaotic and action-packed showdown as Leo, the unassuming gardener with a deadly past, finds himself thrust into the role of protector.
The Gardener boasts a colorful cast of characters, each contributing to the film’s unique blend of action and comedy.
- Leo (Jean-Claude Van Damme): The stoic and enigmatic gardener with a hidden past. Van Damme seamlessly transitions between deadpan humor and intense action sequences, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
- Serge Shuster (Michaël Youn): The quirky and somewhat irritating Special Adviser to the President. Youn’s comedic performance is a mixed bag, with some genuinely funny moments overshadowed by occasional over-the-top antics.
- Mia (Nawell Madani): Serge’s wife, who adds a touch of groundedness to the chaotic family dynamic.
- Alice (Carla Poquin): Serge’s daughter from a previous marriage, caught in the crossfire of the assassination attempt.
- The Angels of Death: A trio of assassins – Phoebus (Jérôme Le Banner), Esmeralda (Matthias Quiviger), and Quasimodo (Kaaris) – who bring a unique blend of menace and absurdity to the film.
The Gardener strikes a balance between action and comedy, offering something for fans of both genres. The action sequences are well-choreographed and brutal, showcasing Van Damme’s signature fighting style. From hand-to-hand combat to a thrilling car chase, the film delivers a healthy dose of adrenaline-pumping moments.
The Gardener is not without its flaws. The dubbing, as mentioned in the original review, is a noticeable issue, with lip-syncing problems that can be distracting. Additionally, some of the comedic elements may not resonate with all audiences, particularly those who find Youn’s over-the-top performance grating.
The Gardener is a fun and action-packed film that delivers on its promise of entertainment. While it may not be a masterpiece. The film’s blend of action, comedy, and quirky characters makes for an enjoyable viewing experience, even if some of the jokes fall flat.
If you’re a fan of Van Damme, action comedies, or simply looking for a mindless and entertaining film, The Gardener is worth checking out. It’s a reminder that even after decades in the industry, the Muscles from Brussels still has what it takes to deliver a knockout performance.