Forced Vengeance (1982)

(#Forced Vengeance is a good representation of the action 'programmer': simply put, it is not particularly inspired nor particular bad. Instead, it is content to be a competent timewaster. Despite a novel casino setting and a martial arts-friendly locale, the script doesn't do much but mark time between fight scenes. Characterizations are of the stock variety and the plotting is humdrum. In terms of acting, Chuck Norris delivers a typically wooden lead performance and the film relies on familiar faces like David Opatoshu and Robert Minor to add a bit of flavor to otherwise bland roles. The one real standout is Michael Cavanaugh, who clearly relishes hamming it up as a greedy villain. Director James Fargo keeps the action moving forward but, outside of a few flashes of inspiration (ex: a fight scene backlit by a giant neon sign), he does little more than get the film in the can. In short, Chuck Norris fans could do a lot worse than Forced Vengeance but it isn't strong enough to appeal to a wider audience. ~ Donald Guarisco, All Movie Guide