Despite being generally low-sighted, Christopher Lambert carved his name into the annals of sci-fi action cinema. His movies from the 90’s, although initially not particularly successful, soon gained a loyal fanbase through the home rental market. However, the Lambert saga has more layers that traverse the Atlantic.
Key Takeaways:
– Christopher Lambert is recognized for his noteworthy contribution to 90’s sci-fi action cinema.
– Despite initial low box office returns, Lambert’s films notably gained popularity through rentals and home video consumption.
– Lambert judiciously alternated between American and French movies, showing versatile acting skills.
– Besides his acting career, Lambert is successful in various businesses such as mineral water, food packaging, wine, property development, and recycling industries.
Born in Great Neck, New York, to a French diplomat stationed at the United Nations, Lambert spent his early years between America and France. This multicultural exposure would heavily influence his career trajectory. He began acting in plays at the tender age of 12, diligently crafting his talent in Paris’ art schools. His early big break came in 1984 when he was cast as the protagonist in the updated Tarzan-esque movie, “Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes.” Despite being relatively unknown at that time, Lambert’s myopia actually worked in his favor in securing the role.
Lambert’s career then flourished on both sides of the Atlantic. In North America, he graced the big screen in movies that may not have left a significant mark at the box office, yet managed to garner him a cult following. Meanwhile, in France, Lambert reveled in critical acclaim with movies like the Luc Besson-directed “Subway,” bagging the César Award for Best Actor in 1986.
Highlander’s Impactful Role
Lambert staked his claim in American cinema, playing the inimitable role of Connor MacLeod in “Highlander.” The movie wasn’t immediately embraced by critics or the box office, but, found its audience later in the VHS market – a testament to Lambert’s ardent fanbase. Despite a series of low budget English language films, his personal life was bolstered as he met his future wife, Diane Lane, on the sets of “Priceless Beauty.”
Lambert returned to his fame-garnering role in “Highlander II: The Quickening,” which unfortunately didn’t fare well among fans or critics. However, he redeemed his standing with audiences in the video game adaptation “Mortal Kombat.” Despite mixed reviews, the movie was a box-office success, and Lambert’s role is still celebrated today.
The Seesaw Continues
Post “Mortal Kombat,” Lambert encountered a dip in his career, with a slew of direct-to-video sci-fi action films. He revisited his prominent roles in “Fortress 2: Re-Entry” and “Highlander: Endgame” at the onset of the new millennium, but these attempts fell short of leaving a mark. Lambert continued to alternate between English and French films, gaining respect as a B-movie legend in the U.S and more diverse roles in France.
He began making an impact as a supporting actor and received critical acclaim for his role in the French drama “White Material.” He also enjoyed box office success with “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance,” making it his highest-grossing film globally. Lambert continued to charm audiences with his depiction of various characters in acclaimed French films and popular TV series like “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “The Blacklist.”
Meanwhile, Lambert kept himself engaged in several businesses. The actor, who once noted having enough ambition for two lifetimes, wisely diversified his energies into successful ventures across varied industries.
In conclusion, Lambert’s story transcends his roles as iconic characters in 90s’ pop culture. With continued significant impacts on international stages and varied investments, Christopher Lambert is indeed a force to reckon with, both on-screen and off-screen. He continues to be active and relevant, with multiple projects lined up. Indeed, Christopher Lambert is doing just fine!
