Hellbound!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today we are looking into a seemingly random movie that has an interesting history, Hellbound! I was even lucky enough to ask an actor who played in the film; David Robb, a few questions!

Released on today’s date in 1994, “Hellbound” offered a distinctive twist on Chuck Norris’s action persona by blending martial arts, police procedural, and supernatural horror. Directed by Aaron Norris, the film follows Chicago detectives Frank Shatter (Norris) and Calvin Jackson (Calvin Levels) as they investigate a gruesome murder linked to ancient, mystical forces. Their search takes them from the streets of Chicago to Jerusalem, where they confront the resurrected demon Prosatanos, intent on reuniting the pieces of a shattered scepter. Adding historical depth to the story is David Robb as King Richard I of England, whose medieval battle with Prosatanos sets the stage for the modern conflict.

The film’s concept aimed to stretch Norris’s established action brand into darker, more fantastical territory. Drawing on biblical lore and Crusader-era mythology, “Hellbound” introduces a backstory in which King Richard shatters Prosatanos’s scepter into nine hidden pieces to prevent his return. In the 1990s, Prosatanos is inadvertently released, and Shatter and Jackson must confront him before his evil spreads. Filmed largely on location in Jerusalem, the movie combines authentic geography with martial arts action and supernatural stakes, giving it a distinctive visual and narrative flavor.

Critics were largely unkind to “Hellbound”, citing its uneven tone, pacing issues, and difficulty balancing horror with action. Reviews frequently described the film as flawed but occasionally entertaining for its camp value and ambitious concept. Despite a lukewarm reception and limited release, it has developed a modest cult following among fans of 1990s action-horror hybrids and Chuck Norris enthusiasts.

David Robb’s portrayal of King Richard anchors the film’s historical framework, linking the medieval and modern timelines. While his screen time is brief, it adds weight to the story’s mythic elements and enriches the supernatural stakes. For Norris, “Hellbound” remains an unusual but memorable entry in his filmography, an ambitious attempt to combine urban crime, martial arts, and occult fantasy into a single, audacious narrative.

Bonus Questions:

Giancarlo: What was it like working on “Hellbound”?

David: I’m afraid I can’t remember much about “Hellbound”, it was 33 years ago, but it was mighty hot wearing chain mail in 30 degree heat!

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is this best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

David: When I was at drama college, I was looking at myself in a full length mirror in the wing’s before going on stage. The head of the drama department saw me and said, “LOOK ONCE, DAVID, THEN FORGET IT- JUST BE THE MAN.” Excellent advice- What he was really saying was “Stop being vain and admiring yourself!”

Thank you for reading! Have an amazing day and we will catch you again soon!

-Giancarlo