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Commando

Commando is a 1985 American action film directed by Mark L.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Commando is a 1985 American action film directed by Mark L. Lester and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as retired Special Forces colonel John Matrix. The plot follows Matrix as he tries to rescue his kidnapped daughter from a former dictator and his armed allies. The film became known for its intense action, large body count, and quoted one-liners.

Plot

The story follows John Matrix after his daughter is kidnapped by forces connected to a former South American dictator. Matrix uses his military skills to track down the kidnappers and rescue her.

Production

Commando was directed by Mark L. Lester from a screenplay by Steven E. de Souza, with music by James Horner. It was produced by Joel Silver for 20th Century Fox.

Reception

The film was noted for its explosive action and humour, and later became a cult favourite. Sources describe it as a commercial success and one of Schwarzenegger’s defining action roles.

Cast and characters

The principal cast includes Arnold Schwarzenegger as John Matrix, Rae Dawn Chong, Alyssa Milano, Vernon Wells, Bill Duke, and Dan Hedaya. The film also features James Olson in a supporting role.

Key facts

  • John Matrix, a retired U.S. Army Special Forces colonel, rescues his kidnapped daughter.
  • Released on October 4, 1985, in the United States.
  • Directed by Mark L. Lester and produced by Joel Silver.
  • Known for its action scenes, humour, and high body count.
  • Nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Special Effects.
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Canadian context

Commando has been widely circulated on Canadian home video, television, and streaming platforms as a classic 1980s action film, and it remains part of North American popular culture familiar to Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Commando about?
It follows retired Special Forces colonel John Matrix as he rescues his kidnapped daughter from armed enemies tied to a former dictator.
Who stars in Commando?
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as John Matrix, alongside Rae Dawn Chong, Alyssa Milano, Vernon Wells, Bill Duke, and Dan Hedaya.
When was Commando released?
It was released in the United States on October 4, 1985.
Who directed Commando?
Commando was directed by Mark L. Lester.
What is Commando known for?
It is known for its action sequences, humour, and unusually high body count.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commando_(1985_film)
    Supports: Basic production details, cast, release date, runtime, and award nomination
  2. Rotten Tomatoeshttps://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1004567-commando
    Supports: Plot synopsis, release date, runtime, genre, and box office context
  3. Simple English Wikipediahttps://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commando_(1985_movie)
    Supports: Release date and main cast
  4. Nothing But Nostalgiahttps://nothingbutnostalgia.com/commando-facts/
    Supports: Action reputation, box office success claim, and Saturn Award nomination