As Bruce Willis‘ career neared its forced end, he starred in over 20 straight-to-DVD movies that, upon their release, were ridiculed by critics, even leading to the creation of a Razzie award category solely for him. However, in light of Willis’ recent dementia diagnosis, many of these films are being re-evaluated, and two notable titles are now streaming on Hulu for fans to revisit: Fortress and its sequel, Fortress: Sniper’s Eye, released in 2021 and 2022, respectively. In these films, Willis portrays Robert Michaels, a former U.S. intelligence officer forced to confront his dangerous past when his estranged son, Paul (played by Jesse Metcalfe), arrives at his secluded high-tech hideaway.
The plot thickens as Paul introduces a figure from Robert’s past, throwing them into a fight for survival within the confines of the titular fortress. Despite a limited theatrical release, which resulted in just $52,169 at the box office, Fortress faced a wave of ridicule after its debut. Critics scored it a mere 20% on Rotten Tomatoes, but audiences resonated with it on a different level, giving it a much higher 76% rating. This contrast is significant, as it reflects a disconnect between critical opinions and audience enjoyment, common in action movie genres.
The film’s Golden Raspberry award nomination was met with backlash, which ultimately led to its withdrawal. Critics often dismiss action films, favoring narratives with solid plots and eloquent dialogue over explosive entertainment. While critics focused on constructive storytelling, action film audiences typically flock to theaters for spectacles. This demand is evident in the sheer number of action films produced each year, many of which find an audience regardless of their release format.
Following Fortress, Fortress: Sniper’s Eye debuted a year later, continuing the storyline with previously established characters, including the return of Willis, Metcalfe, and Chad Michael Murray as the villainous Balzary. Although the sequel garnered a 0% score from critics, it still found a following, earning a 56% audience rating, which showcases a stark contrast to its critical reception. This reaction proves that while not every film is critically acclaimed, viewers still seek entertainment through thrilling plots and compelling action sequences.
With a similar limited release in theaters in only the United Arab Emirates and Portugal, Fortress: Sniper’s Eye actually earned $69,075 in its brief engagement, more than its predecessor. While not an everlasting mark of success for Willis’ illustrious career, the actor’s dedication to continuing his performances amidst health challenges is commendable. His legacy of action films, from the gripping scenes of the Die Hard series to his dynamic roles in buddy cop films like The Last Boy Scout, remains intact.
Fans can now access both Fortress and Fortress: Sniper’s Eye on Hulu, providing an opportunity to reflect on Bruce Willis’ unique contributions to the genre. Despite the mixed reviews, these films represent a chapter in Willis’ storied career, reminding audiences of the thrill he has consistently delivered in the action film landscape. With both films available for streaming, there is no better time to rediscover the world of Bruce Willis, a cinematic icon who has faced numerous challenges yet continues to command attention and appreciation.
