Lionheart (1990) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Lionheart (1990), directed by Sheldon Lettich and starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, is an action-packed martial arts drama that showcases the “Muscles from Brussels” at his best. Known for its intense fight sequences and Van Damme’s charismatic performance, Lionheart is a quintessential film for fans of classic 90s action movies. With its heartfelt story of loyalty, redemption, and the will to fight for family, Lionheart blends brutal combat with a surprisingly emotional core.
In this review, we’ll break down the plot, key elements of the film, and where you can stream Lionheart online.
Plot Summary
The story begins with Lyon Gaultier (Jean-Claude Van Damme), a French Foreign Legion soldier who learns that his brother, who has been living in Los Angeles, has been critically injured in a drug-related incident. Despite being stationed in Africa, Lyon is determined to reach his brother and deserts the Legion. Pursued by Legionnaires who want to bring him back, Lyon makes his way to the U.S., arriving in New York with no money or contacts.
Desperate to make his way to Los Angeles to be with his brother’s widow, Helene (Lisa Pelikan), and his niece, Nicole (Ashley Johnson), Lyon becomes involved in the underground fighting scene. With the help of Joshua (Harrison Page), a fast-talking fight promoter who becomes his manager, Lyon begins to fight in unsanctioned street matches, where wealthy spectators bet on brutal no-rules combat.
As Lyon rises through the ranks of the underground fight world, he earns the nickname “Lionheart.” He uses his winnings to support Helene and Nicole, who are struggling financially. However, Lyon’s dangerous lifestyle and the looming threat of the Foreign Legion tracking him down add tension to his journey. Ultimately, Lyon must confront not only his opponents in the ring but also his past and the need to protect the family he cares for.
Why Lionheart is a Classic Action Film
- Van Damme’s Star Power: Lionheart was released at the height of Jean-Claude Van Damme’s popularity in the late 80s and early 90s. Known for his impressive martial arts skills and physical prowess, Van Damme brings both charisma and vulnerability to the role of Lyon. His ability to blend intense action with emotional moments sets him apart from other action stars of the time.
- Emotional Storyline: While Lionheart is filled with thrilling fight sequences, it also features a surprisingly emotional story about family, sacrifice, and redemption. Lyon’s motivation to help his brother’s family adds depth to the character, making the film more than just a series of action set pieces.
- Brutal Fight Sequences: The film’s underground fighting scenes are a highlight, featuring intense hand-to-hand combat that showcases Van Damme’s martial arts abilities. From brawls in parking lots to high-stakes matches in luxury mansions, the fight choreography is raw, visceral, and engaging, making each battle feel like a high-stakes struggle for survival.
- Supporting Characters: Harrison Page as Joshua, Lyon’s loyal and fast-talking promoter, provides both comic relief and emotional support throughout the film. Joshua’s friendship with Lyon adds heart to the story, and their bond is one of the film’s standout elements. Additionally, Deborah Rennard’s portrayal of Cynthia, a wealthy woman who organizes underground fights, adds an interesting layer of villainy to the film, complicating Lyon’s journey.
- Themes of Loyalty and Redemption: Lionheart explores themes of loyalty, not just to family but also to the people who help Lyon along the way. His relationships with Joshua, Helene, and Nicole reflect his desire to redeem himself and prove his worth. The film also touches on issues of honor and survival, as Lyon must navigate a world of violence while holding onto his moral code.
Themes in Lionheart
- Family and Sacrifice: At its core, Lionheart is about family. Lyon’s journey from a soldier with nothing to a fighter who provides for his brother’s widow and child is a tale of sacrifice. He puts his life on the line in each fight, risking his freedom to ensure that his family is taken care of.
- Survival: The film emphasizes the theme of survival, both physically and emotionally. Lyon is a man on the run, constantly being pursued by his past while fighting for a future for his family. His ability to endure hardship and remain resilient in the face of overwhelming odds is central to the film.
- Redemption: Throughout the film, Lyon seeks redemption for his failures—both as a brother who wasn’t there when his family needed him and as a soldier who abandoned his post. By fighting in the underground matches, he tries to make amends and provide a better life for those he cares about.
- Honor in Violence: Even though Lyon is a fighter in the violent world of underground matches, he maintains a sense of honor. Unlike many of his opponents, Lyon fights with a moral code, refusing to let the brutality of the fight scene compromise his integrity.
Where to Watch Lionheart Online
Several streaming platforms offer Lionheart for rent or purchase. Here’s where you can watch it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
You can rent or purchase Lionheart on Amazon Prime Video. The film is available in high-definition, and you can stream it on a variety of devices.
- Rental Price: $3.99 (HD)
- Purchase Price: $9.99 (HD)
- Availability: Rental and Purchase
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
Apple TV offers Lionheart for rent or purchase in HD. It’s available across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
- Rental Price: $3.99 (HD)
- Purchase Price: $9.99 (HD)
- Availability: Rental and Purchase
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play provides Lionheart for rental or purchase. You can watch it on any Android device or smart TV that supports Google Play.
- Rental Price: $3.99 (HD)
- Purchase Price: $9.99 (HD)
- Availability: Rental and Purchase
4. Vudu
On Vudu, you can rent or buy Lionheart in HD and stream it on various platforms such as Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
- Rental Price: $3.99 (HD)
- Purchase Price: $9.99 (HD)
- Availability: Rental and Purchase
5. YouTube Movies
Lionheart is also available on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase. You can stream the film in HD on any device that supports YouTube.
- Rental Price: $3.99 (HD)
- Purchase Price: $9.99 (HD)
- Availability: Rental and Purchase
Is Lionheart on Netflix?
As of now, Lionheart is not available on Netflix. However, it is widely available for rental or purchase on major platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
Conclusion
Lionheart is a classic Jean-Claude Van Damme film that combines martial arts action with an emotionally resonant story. It’s not just about the fights—although those are thrilling and well-choreographed—but also about a man’s quest to help his family and find redemption along the way. With its powerful themes of loyalty, survival, and honor, Lionheart has earned its place as one of Van Damme’s most beloved films.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Van Damme or just looking for a gripping 90s action movie with heart, Lionheart is worth watching. With its availability on multiple streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Vudu, accessing this martial arts gem is easy. Prepare for a powerful blend of action and emotion as you dive into Lionheart.
