Ember's analysis
- Pacing
- Brisk
- Intensity
- Strong
- Complexity
- Simple
- Violence
- Moderate
- propulsive
- old-fashioned
- earnest
- martial arts movie night
- 1990s action marathon
What critics said
Critics broadly found the film ambitious and visually expansive but undermined by a conventional story and repetitive, weakly staged fight sequences.
What sets it apart
May contain story progression spoilers
Christopher Dubois travels from New York through Thailand, Bangkok, deserts, and the Lost City.
Critics specifically noted the film's old Hollywood atmosphere and self-consciously swashbuckling presentation.
Chris must develop determination, strength of character, and selfless honor through Muay Thai training and the Ghang-gheng.
The ancient Ghang-gheng competition and its Golden Dragon prize drive the final phase of the journey.
Films like The Quest, and why
Bloodsport
Shared martial arts action, international adventure odyssey, tournament combat, and straightforward hero's journey structure.
Mortal Kombat
Shared globe-spanning martial arts adventure, colorful villains, old-fashioned spectacle, and tournament-centered action.
Lionheart
Shared international combat adventure, charismatic action hero, and high-stakes martial arts competition.
The Man in the Iron Mask
Shared swashbuckling adventure tone, period atmosphere, exotic locations, and physically dominant protagonist.
Movie Details
- Director
- Jean-Claude Van Damme
- Release Date
- 1996-04-19
- Runtime
- 95 min
- Rating
- 6.2 / 10 (821)
Cast
- Jean-Claude Van Damme
- Roger Moore
- James Remar
- Jack McGee
- Louis Mandylor
- Ryan Cutrona
- Ze'ev Revach
- Janet Gunn
- Aki Aleong
- Abdel Qissi
Where to watch in United States
- Rent
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
- Buy
- Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home
Streaming options come from TMDB and change over time.
Common questions
- What is The Quest about?
- A street survivor crosses a dangerous colonial-era world to become a disciplined fighter and compete for honor in a legendary martial arts tournament.
- What is The Quest like to watch?
- Ember's analysis rates the pacing of The Quest as brisk, its intensity as strong and its storytelling as simple.
- Is The Quest violent?
- Somewhat. Ember rates the violence in The Quest as moderate.
- What did critics think of The Quest?
- Critics broadly found the film ambitious and visually expansive but undermined by a conventional story and repetitive, weakly staged fight sequences.
- Which films are like The Quest?
- Films with a similar feel include Bloodsport, Mortal Kombat, Lionheart, and The Man in the Iron Mask.
- How long is The Quest?
- The Quest runs 95 minutes.
- Where can I watch The Quest?
- In United States, The Quest is available to rent or buy from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home.
