Lionheart
Performance & Direction: Lionheart Review
Last updated: February 19, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Lionheart (1990) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 6.6/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Action.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Lionheart features a noteworthy lineup led by Jean-Claude Van Damme . Supported by the likes of Harrison Page and Lisa Pelikan , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Lionheart
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1990, Lionheart is a Action film directed by Sheldon Lettich. The narrative delivers highly intense sequences and pulse-pounding confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jean-Claude Van Damme.
Story Breakdown
In this high-octane feature, Sheldon Lettich establishes a narrative structure that follows a classic action blueprint: establishing the protagonist's world, introducing a formidable antagonist, and escalating the stakes. Lyon Gaultier is a deserter in the Foreign Legion arriving in the USA entirely hard up. He finds his brother between life and death and his sister-in-law without the money needed to heal her husband and to maintain her child. To earn the money needed, Gaultier decides to take part in some very dangerous clandestine fights. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments for Jean-Claude Van Damme, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. Jean-Claude Van Damme's arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Ending Explained: Lionheart
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Sheldon Lettich, Lionheart concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The climactic sequence delivers on the escalating tension involving Jean-Claude Van Damme, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Lionheart reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Lionheart?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Jean-Claude Van Damme or the director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Box Office Collection: Lionheart
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $6.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $24.3M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Lionheart Budget
The estimated production budget for Lionheart is $6.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Lionheart
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Lionheart Online?
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Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeLionheart Parents Guide & Age Rating
1990 AdvisoryWondering about Lionheart age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Lionheart is 105 minutes (1h 45m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 6.6/10, and global performance metrics, Lionheart is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1990 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lionheart worth watching?
Lionheart is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies. It has a verified rating of 6.6/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Lionheart parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Lionheart identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Lionheart?
The total duration of Lionheart is 105 minutes, which is approximately 1h 45m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
