Watch No Code of Conduct

No Code of Conduct is a gritty action-thriller movie from 1998 directed by Bret Michaels, the frontman of the rock band Poison. The film stars Charlie Sheen, Martin Sheen, and Mark Dacascos, weaving a tale of corruption, family drama, and vigilante justice within the stylized backdrop of late 90s action cinema. The story centers around Jake Peterson (played by Charlie Sheen), a tough and morally flexible narcotics detective who's well acquainted with the crime-ridden streets he patrols. Jake's approach to justice is hardened by his experiences in the field, pushing the boundaries of the law as he sees fit in his quest to dismantle the drug rings infesting the city. Known for his unyielding attitude and willingness to do whatever it takes to get results, Jake has garnered a reputation among his peers, both as a valuable asset in the war on drugs and as a loose cannon.

Martin Sheen portrays Bill Peterson, Jake's father, and the head of the department’s Internal Affairs. Bill is a man of principle, a seasoned cop with a storied past and a steadfast dedication to upholding the law as it is written. He embodies the concept of a by-the-book officer, which places him squarely at odds with Jake's more improvised tactics. Their fraught relationship sets the stage for tense family dynamics and a complicated exploration of their personal and professional lives.

Caught in the fray is Ken Shuler (Mark Dacascos), who plays a talented and dedicated officer working alongside Jake. Skilled in martial arts and possessing an analytical mind, Ken is an invaluable member of the team. His sense of judgment and skill in combat are imperative as they navigate the perilous underworld lurking within their city.

No Code of Conduct offers an intriguing critique of moral ambiguity within the police force. The storyline delves into the gray areas that often emerge in the line of duty, examining how these characters cope with the ethics of their profession. It's a film that questions the integrity of the protectors and the systems they operate within, drawing the audience into a complex web of conflicting ideals.

Throughout the film, the audience is teased with an intricate plot filled with corruption, betrayal, and elusive adversaries. The criminals the protagonists face are not only street-level thugs but also those who sit in seats of power, wearing suits, and wielding their influence behind closed doors. As the storyline unfolds, Jake, Ken, and Bill must confront not only the societal scourges they swore to fight against but also the internal corrosion that threatens the efficacy of the law enforcement establishment.

The action sequences in No Code of Conduct are quintessential of the era, featuring explosive shootouts, high-speed car chases, and hand-to-hand combat. Dacascos, known for his physical roles, provides an impressive performance that adds a visceral element to the action scenes. The film doesn't hold back in its depiction of violence, choosing to depict the rawness and chaos that surrounds the life of a narcotics officer.

Visually, the movie is marked by the elective color palette and camera techniques of the late 90s. It makes use of dramatic lighting and urban settings to create a palpable, seamy atmosphere that serves the narrative well. The cinematography complements the themes of the story, using shadows and silhouettes to portray the dark dealings that occur on both sides of the law.

No Code of Conduct doubles down on its cast's on-screen chemistry, leveraging the real-life father-son relationship between Charlie and Martin Sheen to reinforce the believability of their characters' troubled bond. Their performances carry the emotional weight of the film, with raw exchanges and intense scenes that showcase their acting prowess.

The soundtrack supports the film's gritty narrative, blending rock and electronic influences to match the fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping sequences. The score helps to push the story forward, setting the mood for both the kinetic action and the more subdued moments of ethical contemplation.

On its release, No Code of Conduct received a mixed reception, typifying many direct-to-video action movies of the time. Nevertheless, it has since found its niche among fans of the genre who appreciate its uncompromising take on crime and corruption and its notable cast. It stands as an artifact of the culture of late 90s action filmmaking, demonstrating both the strengths and limitations of the genre during that period.

While not groundbreaking, No Code of Conduct serves as a solid contribution to the action genre. Those interested in a narrative that tackles difficult themes like morality, family dissonance, and systematic corruption—all incorporated within high-octane sequences and hard-hitting performances—may find this film an engaging watch.

No Code of Conduct is a 2000 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.7.