The Delta Force (1986)

The ’80s were a golden age for action films, and “The Delta Force” is no exception. Starring Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin, this Cannon Films classic delivers a high-octane mix of military heroism, motorcycle-mounted rockets and one of the most absurdly patriotic finales in cinema history.

Loosely inspired by the real-life hijacking of TWA Flight 847, the film follows an elite commando unit as they take on Middle Eastern terrorists in a testosterone-fueled spectacle that only the ’80s could produce​.

In this episode, the Shat Crew dives deep into the questionable military accuracy, over-the-top action sequences, and the sheer marketing genius behind “Delta Force “weaponry. Is this a patriotic masterpiece, a jingoistic fever dream, or just a Chuck Norris vehicle gone wild? Strap in as we break it all down—Uzi in one hand, American flag in the other​.

Plot Summary:
In the 1986 action thriller The Delta Force, directed by Menahem Golan, Chuck Norris and Lee Marvin lead an elite team of commandos on a daring mission to rescue hostages from a hijacked airliner. Inspired by real-life events, the film follows a high-stakes operation as the Delta Force, a top-secret U.S. military unit, takes on ruthless terrorists in a pulse-pounding battle of strategy, firepower, and heroism.

The story begins when a commercial flight from Athens to New York is hijacked by Lebanese terrorists led by Abdul Rifi (Robert Forster). The passengers, including an assortment of American citizens, Jewish travelers, and military personnel, are held hostage and subjected to psychological and physical torment. With tensions rising and diplomatic negotiations failing, Colonel Nick Alexander (Lee Marvin) and his top operative, Major Scott McCoy (Chuck Norris), are called in to execute a high-risk rescue mission.

As McCoy and his team infiltrate enemy territory, the film delivers intense action sequences, including motorcycle chases, shootouts, and hand-to-hand combat, showcasing Norris’s signature martial arts prowess. The tension builds as the Delta Force systematically takes down the terrorists, leading to a climactic final battle where McCoy faces off against Rifi in a showdown of brute force and determination.

The Delta Force combines explosive action with patriotic heroics, delivering a classic 80s action movie experience filled with high-octane stunts and over-the-top one-liners. Join our podcast review as we revisit this Cannon Films cult favorite, discussing its intense action, military tactics, and whether its brand of 80s action still packs a punch today.

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