Such wretched excess is especially lamentable because 'Forced Vengeance' starts off with a lot going for it: a serviceable, if familiar story (by Franklin Thompson), some likable people to root for, unfailingly photogenic and atmospheric Hong Kong locales (well photographed by Rexford Metz) and crisp direction by James Fargo, a Clint Eastwood alumnus." Richard Harrington of The Washington Post called the film "one of Norris' less sterling efforts, a scratchy mono to the stereo of such earlier efforts as 'Return of the Dragon' and 'Force of One.'
Such regrettable extravagance is particularly disappointing given that 'Forced Vengeance' had promising elements: an adequate story by Franklin Thompson, likable characters, visually striking Hong Kong locations captured by Rexford Metz, and clear direction from James Fargo, a Clint Eastwood protégé." Richard Harrington of The Washington Post described the film as "one of Norris' less praiseworthy endeavors, inferior to earlier works such as 'Return of the Dragon' and 'Force of One.'