In a surprising resurgence of popularity, Jean-Claude Van Damme has captured the hearts of Spanish audiences with his latest action-comedy film, El jardinero, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Released in January 2025 in France, the film arrived in Spain just two months later, rapidly climbing into the top 10 most-watched films in the country. This unexpected success highlights not only the enduring appeal of Van Damme but also the charm of a well-executed buddy movie.
El jardinero was directed by David Charhon, who collaborated with Van Damme on El último mercenario four years ago. In this film, Van Damme portrays Léo, a former special forces operative who has traded his action-packed life for the peaceful existence of a gardener. However, the tranquility is short-lived. As peril befalls his clients, he must resurrect his combat skills to safeguard them and, ultimately, himself.
The film's premise may seem bizarre, yet it resonates with audiences seeking lighthearted entertainment. As of March 2025, El jardinero holds modest ratings of 3.9/10 on FilmAffinity and 4.1/10 on IMDb, indicating that while critics might not be raving, viewers find a certain enjoyment in its comedic exploits.
Despite the lukewarm critical reception, the film's presence on Prime Video has injected new life into Van Damme's career, reminiscent of other cinematic comebacks throughout history. Much like John Travolta’s revival following Pulp Fiction, Van Damme, who found fame in the 80s and 90s, has seen a renewed interest in his work. Now 64, he brings humor and charisma even in a role that could risk ridicule.
Van Damme is not new to the entertainment industry, with a prolific career comprising 86 film productions. His previous attempts at mainstream success in recent years had ebbed, culminating in his Razzie win for the worst duo alongside Dennis Rodman in Double Team. Nonetheless, in El jardinero, he showcases a different side of himself, one that combines action with comedy, and proves he can still engage audiences.
Over the years, Van Damme has displayed an ability to poke fun at himself, whether through social media antics or participating in lighthearted roles. El jardinero serves as a playful nod to his lengthy and diverse career, allowing him to embrace both action and comedic elements without losing the essence of his persona.
In this film, Léo’s character arc reflects a significant theme of redemption and second chances, symbolizing Van Damme’s own resurrection in the eyes of the public. While he has faced criticism, many fans cherish the nostalgia he invokes, reminding them of the action-packed glory days of the late 20th century.
Moreover, El jardinero stands as Van Damme’s first theatrical release in years, breaking away from a streak of limited engagements in video or direct-to-streaming releases. This new venture demonstrates a daring leap back into relevance, hinting at future opportunities for the actor.
Similaritywise, it’s worth noting that other films and series have taken center stage on streaming platforms. As of March 23, 2025, Netflix boasts its own treasure, Adolescencia, a drama co-written and co-starring Stephen Graham. The series has captivated subscribers with its innovative storytelling, while Max presents the fourth season of Los Gemstone, further diversifying viewers’ choices.
As audiences dive into the whimsical adventure of El jardinero, the film invites viewers to witness Van Damme’s balancing act of humor and nostalgia, merging the action genre with comedy. For those wanting a quick escape from reality or a taste of the '90s nostalgia, this film stands poised to become a memorable addition to the myriad of offerings available through streaming services.
The presence of Van Damme in this cheerful venture illustrates that action stars can transcend generational divides and appeal to both longtime fans and newer audiences. While critics may not fully endorse the film, its growing popularity reflects a clear demand for fun, engaging content in today’s cinematic landscape.
As the month progresses, Van Damme continues to build upon this resurgence with El jardinero, forever a figure that ascends and descends in the public eye. With this new film, he solidifies his place within the world of cinema, showcasing that age is merely a number and that laughter—and a good fight sequence—can capture the essence of entertainment.
