Martial arts star Steven Seagal appears to have risen from the ashes of widespread controversies and returned to making movies. The 73-year-old star of On Deadly Ground and Under Siege has made his first action thriller in years, and will hope to show he’s still got some aikido chops in Order of the Dragon, an upcoming undated title coming courtesy of Dream Team Pictures.
Seagal is “Mason Ryker, the last remaining member and leader of the organization Order of the Dragon.” The project was unveiled by director Vjekoslav Katusin, who posted a batch of images on Instagram, in a post that includes his own message:
“I’m thrilled to share with you the plot of my new film Order of the Dragon, featuring the legendary Steven Seagal. The demand has been overwhelming, and I know you’re eager for a sneak peek! Alongside the synopsis, I’m excited to reveal eight additional first look images from the film.
“Thank you for your enthusiasm and support! I can’t wait for you all to experience Order of the Dragon.”
Katusin’s post also includes the film’s synopsis, which suggests Seagal will play a mysterious figure whose morals could result in an unexpected turn of character. The images show him doing his usual thing: wearing a black suit and fighting an unfortunate opponent.
John Rico and Chang Lee are two professional hitmen who botch their latest assignment, resulting in Lee sustaining a shoulder injury. Their boss, Henry Wyatt, gives John one last chance: to eliminate Mason Ryker, the last remaining member and leader of the organization Order of the Dragon.
John sets off for Belgrade, Serbia, where Ryker is hiding. Upon arrival, he encounters a myriad of dangers and challenges that test his resolve. As the clock ticks down, John must grapple with his growing doubts about whether his employer has been truthful about Ryker or if everything he’s been told was nothing but a lie. Adding to the tension, Henry sends a team of additional killers to Belgrade, led by the ruthless Commander Rouge, whose sole mission is to eliminate both John and Ryker.
Why Is Steven Seagal So Controversial?
Seagal made his big Hollywood breakthrough in 1988 with Above the Law, quickly becoming a top-line star in the martial arts genre. For many years, his career has been shadowed by allegations of sexual misconduct, and though several women have formally accused him, the actor has maintained his innocence and avoided any legal repercussions to date.
In addition, Seagal has been associated with more controversies on the sets of his productions. Several people from stunt teams, as well as known Hollywood stars, allege that shooting with Seagal has resulted in some squabbles, sparked by the actor’s continuous aggressive behavior. A bit weird, considering his specialty, aikido, calls for harmony as a martial arts technique and a way of life.
Seagal’s problems with the law include operations involving the mob and extortion crimes, but every time he’s gone to court, he’s come out unaffected. The most recent controversies have to do with Seagal’s political views. The Executive Decision star has openly praised Russia’s president Vladimir Putin, holds Russian and Serbian passports, and has represented Russia in some diplomatic missions. It’s been a strange journey for a Michigan-born Hollywood star who was once considered a pioneer of the martial arts genre, and who claimed he could beat two black belts with his pinky finger. There are videos, but it’s up to you to decide whether they’re authentic.