The Greatest Action Movie Moment Ever Was When Van Damme Punched That Snake in ‘Hard Target’

The Legacy of 'Hard Target' (1993)

Now, here’s a movie that has a lot to explore. Released in 1993, Hard Target was indeed John Woo’s official introduction to American film audiences. Already considered perhaps the most major figure of Hong Kong action cinema thanks to his insane action flicks like A Better Tomorrow (1986), The Killer (1989), and Hard Boiled (1992), when Woo made his way to Hollywood it was a sign of a changing of the guard, so to speak, in blockbuster action cinema.

The world was ready for the over-the-top spectacles of Woo-ian action sequences, which brought new levels of explosiveness and rambunctiousness, as well as their own iconic cinematic elements (most notably the endless fluttering of dove wings).

However, before Woo would go on to be chosen to direct Mission: Impossible 2, or helm other major blockbusters like Broken Arrow and Face/Off, he got his American action start with Jean-Claude Van Damme, who was ready to wow the world with his spot-on New Orleans Cajun accent…

The Snake Punch in 'Hard Target'

Again, all kidding aside, despite Van Damme’s odd yet very funny acting choices. And an obviously flawed film in terms of scene-to-scene dialogue and plotting (although, honestly, not too bad by standards of the time), Hard Target really was a vehicle for its over-the-top action sequences, Van Damme’s flying kicks and stunts, and the silly moments in between.

Like the time Van Damme punched that snake in the face.

It’s hard to say why all involved thought this scene was a good idea. But we’re very happy that the decision was made not only to put such an incredulous idea into action, but also that it was approved and so well brought to life by Woo and crew.

Not to mention Van Damme’s performance. This is a man who clearly believed he was actually punching a snake in the face to stun it and use it as a booby trap against his enemies.

The Lessons of 'Hard Target'

We could honestly fill a whole book with the great insights and lessons one could take from Hard Target. One of Woo’s first, but best, attempts at creating ultimate, over-the-top action fodder for audiences to enjoy not only in the US, but worldwide.

It’s a film that from the very first frames knows what it is and what it’s out to accomplish. And each moment, line of dialogue, fight spectacle, and snake punch along the way proves it.