The 1997 action comedy Double Team, directed by Tsui Hark, is making a surprising return with the announcement of Double Team 2 set for release in 2024. Known for its over-the-top action sequences, wild stunts, and an unexpected partnership between Jean-Claude Van Damme and flamboyant NBA star Dennis Rodman, the original film was a chaotic blend of genres that left audiences both entertained and bewildered.

Double Team follows counter-terrorist agent Jack Quinn (Van Damme) as he attempts to capture elusive terrorist Stavros (Mickey Rourke). After a mission goes awry, resulting in the death of Stavros’ lover and child, Stavros seeks revenge by kidnapping Quinn’s pregnant wife. This personal vendetta forces Quinn out of retirement and back into the dangerous world of international espionage. To aid in his rescue mission, Quinn partners with Yaz (Rodman), a colorful and eccentric arms dealer, leading to an unlikely and often comedic team-up.

Despite the star power and action-packed premise, Double Team was met with negative reviews and was a commercial flop. Critics panned the film for its confusing plot, lackluster performances, and the odd pairing of Van Damme and Rodman. The film was even recognized at the Golden Raspberry Awards, where it “won” three Razzies, including Worst Supporting Actor (Rodman), Worst New Star (Rodman), and Worst Screen Couple (Rodman and Van Damme).

However, despite its flaws, Double Team has developed a cult following over the years, largely due to its nostalgic appeal and the sheer absurdity of its action sequences. The film’s blend of 90s camp and high-energy stunts has kept it alive in the hearts of fans who appreciate it as a so-bad-it’s-good action flick.

Now, more than two decades later, Double Team 2 is poised to give the franchise a second chance. With a teaser trailer dropping for the 2024 sequel, anticipation is building around what direction this new film will take. Will it embrace the wild energy of the original, or will it attempt to modernize the concept with a more grounded approach?

While plot details for Double Team 2 remain under wraps, there’s speculation that Van Damme and Rodman will return to their roles as Quinn and Yaz, respectively. The chemistry between the two, despite being ridiculed in the past, could be a key element of the sequel’s success. Fans are eager to see how the two characters have evolved and what new challenges they will face in this next chapter.

The resurgence of Double Team comes at a time when 90s nostalgia is at an all-time high, with many filmmakers revisiting and rebooting franchises from that era. Double Team 2 has the opportunity to build on the original’s campy charm while delivering the kind of action-packed spectacle that modern audiences crave.

With more advanced special effects, a bigger budget, and lessons learned from the first film’s missteps, Double Team 2 has the potential to redeem the franchise and deliver a memorable action experience. Whether it will be embraced by fans of the original or attract a new generation of viewers remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the combination of Van Damme’s martial arts prowess and Rodman’s eccentricity is sure to make Double Team 2 an unforgettable ride.