The subject of forgotten American soldiers left behind in Viet Nam served as a catalyst for some decent action flicks in the 1980s. This film and Rambo: First Blood Part II were the most prevalent of them. The film has some good action, but not much proof of the existence of POWs was found, however.
When I was about ten, these types of films really psyched me up. I really wanted the US military to stage a massive operation to go back in and get those guys. But my father who was an intelligence officer in the Air Force told me not to get too excited about things. We really never did have any concrete proof that a great number of our soldiers were being held in camps or used to harvest the rice and whatnot. Still, films like Missing In Action are a lot of fun to watch. My father did tell me that Bangkok is just as sleazy as the film makes it appear, though.
Joseph Zito does a good job making Chuck Norris look his best as he fights his way in and eventually out of Viet Nam looking for POWs. Lots of bullets fly, bombs go off, and people get the crap kicked out of them. Norris was perhaps the most wooden of all action stars during the period, but it was always fun to watch him whip up on the enemy.
There are two great supporting performances here, as well. M. Emmet Walsh and James Hong are two terrific character actors, and they are well used. Many people recognize Hong for being the host at the Chinese restaurant in Seinfeld when they have to wait for an entire episode to be seated.
If you get the chance, take another look at this film which has been forgotten by many. Norris was in his prime, and you'll likely be satisfied with the conclusion.
6 of 10 stars
The Hound.
