Poster Details

This stunning hand-painted movie poster from Ghana vividly captures the action-packed spirit of the 1984 film Missing in Action. Known for its raw depiction of Vietnam War themes, the poster, created with oil paints on a recycled flour sack, is an authentic example of Ghanaian cinema art. The vibrant colors and dynamic portrayal of the main character, Colonel Braddock (played by Chuck Norris), add to the film’s intensity and action-filled narrative. This poster is a striking representation of the unique style characteristic of hand-painted Ghana movie posters, where local artists often amplify dramatic elements to attract audiences.

Cultural and Artistic Significance

Hand-painted movie posters from Ghana hold significant cultural value, emerging in the 1980s with the rise of mobile cinemas. These posters were often painted on recycled flour sacks, making them both resourceful and eco-friendly. Local artists crafted these posters by watching films and then recreating the key scenes with a touch of their own artistic license, often exaggerating certain elements to appeal to local tastes. This resulted in unique, bold, and colorful designs that have become collectible pieces of African art. Despite the wear and tear due to the mobile nature of these cinemas, many posters have survived, now celebrated worldwide for their creativity and historical significance. The tradition of these posters serves as a reminder of the artistic ingenuity that thrived in Ghana’s film industry during its mobile cinema era.

Film Information

"Missing in Action" (1984)

• Genre: Action, War
• Director: Joseph Zito
• Cast: Chuck Norris (Colonel James Braddock), M. Emmet Walsh (Tuck), David Tress (Senator Porter), Lenore Kasdorf (Ann Fitz)
• Plot: In this Vietnam War action film, Colonel James Braddock, a former prisoner of war, returns to Vietnam to rescue American soldiers who are still being held captive. Having escaped a POW camp ten years earlier, Braddock’s mission is driven by his unwavering belief that there are still American POWs in the region. The film follows Braddock as he embarks on a daring rescue mission, navigating political obstacles and military dangers to bring his fellow soldiers home.

Detailed Internet-Sourced Information

"Missing in Action" was a critical success for Cannon Films, earning over $26 million by 1985 and marking a notable box-office hit for Chuck Norris. The film drew comparisons to the popular Rambo series, with its themes of war, rescue missions, and patriotic undertones. Although the film faced mixed reviews for its formulaic approach and political messaging, it solidified Norris' status as an action star of the 1980s. The film's action sequences, combined with its portrayal of Vietnam War POWs, made it a crowd-pleaser, despite the criticisms surrounding its plot and character development.