In this episode of the Born to Watch Podcast, we’re stepping into the world of high-octane action and martial arts with the 1988 classic Above the Law. Directed by Andrew Davis and starring Steven Seagal in his explosive debut, this film set the tone for what would become Seagal’s signature brand of bone-crunching action and stoic, tough-guy charisma. If you’re a fan of gritty cop dramas, intense fight scenes, and non-stop thrills, then this episode is for you!
Plot Breakdown:
At its core, Above the Law introduces us to Nico Toscani (Steven Seagal), a Chicago cop with a dangerous past. A former CIA operative who learned martial arts in Japan, Nico is a man shaped by his experiences and a strong sense of justice. When he stumbles upon a covert CIA drug smuggling operation, Nico realizes that the corruption runs deep, and that standing up for what's right could cost him everything. As the action unfolds, Nico takes on rogue government agents, drug dealers, and his own dark past, determined to expose the truth—even if it means putting himself in the line of fire.
We break down the film's riveting plot and discuss how its mix of political intrigue, corruption, and relentless action set it apart from typical ‘80s action fare. It’s not just a simple story of good versus evil; it’s a story about how far a man will go to protect his ideals, even when faced with the ugliness of the world around him.
Steven Seagal’s Star-Making Role:
Above the Law marked the beginning of Steven Seagal’s film career, and what a start it was! Seagal brought a unique physicality to the role of Nico Toscani, blending martial arts expertise with a raw, no-nonsense intensity that Hollywood hadn’t seen before. We talk about how Seagal’s background in Aikido influenced the fight choreography in the film, giving his action scenes a distinct flavour compared to the more traditional shootouts and explosions of the time.
Seagal wasn’t just another action star; he was a martial artist first and foremost, and his fluid, fast, and brutal fighting style gave him an edge that audiences hadn’t seen in mainstream American action films. In this episode, we explore how Seagal’s performance in Above the Law set the stage for his later roles in films like Hard to Kill (1990), Marked for Death (1990), and Under Siege (1992), cementing his place as one of the biggest action stars of the late ‘80s and ‘90s.
Andrew Davis’ Direction:
Behind the camera was Andrew Davis, a director who would go on to make the acclaimed action thriller The Fugitive (1993). In Above the Law, Davis showcased his knack for blending high-stakes action with sharp political commentary. He created a film that’s not just about punching bad guys—it’s about exposing corruption and the lengths powerful people will go to cover it up.
We discuss how Davis’ direction elevates Above the Law from being just another action movie to a gripping crime thriller with a message. By grounding the film in the gritty streets of Chicago and incorporating real-world issues like government overreach and international drug trafficking, Davis created a more grounded and thoughtful action film, making Above the Law a standout in the genre.
Supporting Cast:
While Seagal might be the main draw, Above the Law features an impressive supporting cast that helps flesh out the world around Nico. The always-reliable Pam Grier plays Nico’s tough, no-nonsense partner, Delores Jackson, and her chemistry with Seagal adds a grounded sense of camaraderie to the film. Henry Silva is also worth mentioning, delivering a menacing performance as Zagon, the rogue CIA agent who serves as Nico’s main adversary. In this episode, we dive into how the supporting cast adds depth and complexity to the story, making the stakes feel all the more real.
Cultural and Cinematic Impact:
When it hit theatres in 1988, Above the Law wasn’t just another action movie—it was a statement. The film tapped into the anti-establishment sentiments of the time, critiquing the unchecked power of government agencies and their clandestine operations. In this episode, we discuss how Above the Law became more than just a vehicle for Steven Seagal’s martial arts skills—it became a film that resonated with audiences who were disillusioned by real-world corruption and abuse of power.
Join the Conversation:
Tune in as we take you back to 1988 and unpack what makes Above the Law such an influential action classic. From its thrilling fight scenes to its sharp social commentary, there’s plenty to talk about. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Born to Watch Podcast for more deep dives into your favourite films, and let us know in the comments what you think about Steven Seagal’s big-screen debut!
