Is Commando Worth Watching?
Answer: Yes, Commando is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 90 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Commando Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1985, Commando emerges as a significant entry in the Action, Adventure, Thriller domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of John Matrix, the former leader of a special commando strike force that always got the toughest jobs done, is forced back into action when his young daughter is kidnapped. Unlike standard genre fare, Commando attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Action is often anchored by its ensemble, and Commando features a noteworthy lineup led by Arnold Schwarzenegger . Supported by the likes of Rae Dawn Chong and Dan Hedaya , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Commando (1985) is mixed. With an audience rating of 6.7/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Commando Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Commando is a Action, Adventure, Thriller film that delivers high-octane sequences and adrenaline-pumping confrontations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Story Breakdown
The narrative structure follows a classic action blueprint: establish the protagonist's world, introduce a formidable antagonist, and escalate the stakes through increasingly intense confrontations. John Matrix, the former leader of a special commando strike force that always got the toughest jobs done, is forced back into action when his young daughter is kidnapped. To find her, Matrix has to fight his way through an array of punks, killers, one of his former commandos, and a fully equipped private army. With the help of a feisty stewardess and an old friend, Matrix has only a few hours to overcome his greatest challenge: finding his daughter before she's killed. The film balances spectacular set pieces with character moments, ensuring the action serves the story rather than overwhelming it.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The film opens with an explosive sequence that immediately establishes the stakes and introduces our protagonist in action.
- Character Arc: The main character shows growth throughout the story, though some supporting characters could have been more fully realized. The arc is present but occasionally predictable.
- Climax & Resolution: The final confrontation delivers on the buildup, with stakes at their highest and the protagonist using everything they've learned.
Commando Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Commando concludes its story with a mix of closure and open interpretation. The finale presents its approach to action resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the action themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Commando reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Commando?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Action films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of the cast or director
- Want an adrenaline rush without demanding perfection
Commando Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $10.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $57.5M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Commando Budget
The estimated production budget for Commando is $10.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Commando
- Arnold Schwarzenegger – John Matrix
- Rae Dawn Chong – Cindy
- Dan Hedaya – Arius
- Vernon Wells – Bennett
- James Olson – Major General Franklin Kirby
Top Highlights
Arnold SchwarzeneggerJohn Matrix
Rae Dawn ChongCindy
Dan HedayaArius
Vernon WellsBennett
James OlsonMajor General Franklin Kirby
David Patrick KellySully
Alyssa MilanoJenny Matrix
Bill DukeCooke
Drew SnyderLawson
Sharon WyattLeslie
Where to Watch Commando Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Google Play Movies
YouTube🏷️ Buy on
Google Play MoviesYouTubeParents Guide & Age Rating
Commando is rated R. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.7/10, and global collection metrics, Commando stands as a successful venture for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1985 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Commando movie hit or flop?
Commando has received mixed reviews with a 6.7/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Commando worth watching?
Commando is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Action, Adventure, Thriller movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Commando online?
Commando may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Commando Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Commando
Let the story, acting, stunt-work, script, cinematography, production value, and just about everything else all dribble away while you sit back and enjoy watching Arnie kill more than 80 antagonists in about 80 minutes. _Final rating:★★★ - I liked it. Would personally recommend you give it a go._
I eat Green Berets for breakfast. And right now, I'm very hungry! Commando is directed by Mark L. Lester and written by Jeph Loeb, Matthew Weisman and Steven E. de Souza. It stars Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rae Dawn Chong, Dan Hedaya, Vernon Wells, James Olson, David Patrick Kelly, Alyssa Milano and Bill Duke. Music is by James Horner and cinematography by Matthew F. Leonetti. John Matrix (Schwarzenegger) is the former leader of a special commando strike force that always got the toughest jobs done. He is forced back into action when his young daughter (Milano) is kidnapped by kingpin criminal Arius (Hedaya) and his gang of thugs. They want Matrix to carry out an assassination, but all Matrix has on his mind is to save his daughter - he has half a day to do so before the thugs will kill her - so it's now a private war... After playing "Conan" and "The Terminator", Schwarzenegger slipped into a role that would prove to carry all the hallmarks of the big man's action movie career. Commando is awash with outrageous action, pure carnage and gruesome deaths, plenty of quippy one liners, and of course over the top villains. Clocking in at just 90 minutes in length, it's the perfect "leave the brain at the door" popcorn crowd pleaser. Chong gets a well written lead lady part, giving us a spunky heroine who evolves as the plot grows ever more chaotic, and young Milano gets to play a resourceful child character. High art it is not, but who cares if you want to just watch Arnie waylay a whole army on his own. Great fun. 7/10
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