🎬 Under Siege (1992)
Under Siege (1992) is a classic 1990s action thriller directed by Andrew Davis and starring Steven Seagal in one of his most iconic roles. Blending high-stakes naval warfare with intense hand-to-hand combat, the film is often described as “Die Hard on a battleship.” It became Seagal’s biggest box-office success and one of the defining action films of the decade.
The story follows Casey Ryback (Steven Seagal), a former Navy SEAL Chief Petty Officer who now works as the ship’s cook aboard the USS Missouri, a U.S. Navy battleship on its final voyage before decommissioning. Ryback is well-liked by the crew but disliked by his commanding officer, Captain Adams, who keeps him confined to kitchen duties after past disciplinary issues. Despite his humble role, Ryback remains calm, observant, and disciplined—a man clearly capable of much more than cooking.
As the ship prepares for a celebration in honor of the captain’s birthday, a civilian entertainment crew arrives, led by Jordan Tate (Erika Eleniak), a former Playboy model hired to perform as the party’s surprise guest. However, the event quickly turns deadly when the entertainment team reveals themselves as terrorists disguised as caterers and performers. Their leader, William Strannix (Tommy Lee Jones), is a psychotic former CIA operative, working alongside corrupt Navy Commander Krill (Gary Busey). Together, they seize control of the ship and its arsenal of nuclear-tipped Tomahawk missiles, planning to sell them to the highest bidder.
Most of the crew is locked down or killed, but Ryback—initially confined to the freezer for disobeying orders—escapes and becomes the ship’s only hope. Using his SEAL training, stealth, and lethal hand-to-hand combat skills, Ryback begins systematically taking out the terrorists one by one. He uses the ship’s weapon systems, engineering knowledge, and even kitchen tools to his advantage.
Along the way, he reluctantly teams up with Jordan Tate, who proves resourceful despite her lack of combat experience. Together, they navigate the dark corridors of the ship, avoiding capture while sabotaging the terrorists’ plans.
The climax unfolds in a fierce confrontation between Ryback and Strannix in the ship’s control room, where the two engage in a brutal knife fight. Ryback ultimately kills Strannix, stops the missile launch, and saves the ship from destruction.
Under Siege ends with Ryback being honored by the surviving crew members, finally earning the recognition he deserves. The film stands out for its tight pacing, explosive action, and charismatic performances—particularly by Seagal and Tommy Lee Jones.
It remains one of the best and most respected action thrillers of the 1990s, solidifying Steven Seagal’s reputation as an action star at his peak.
