Above the Law (1988 film)

Above the Law (also known as Nico: Above the Law, or simply Nico) is a 1988 American action thriller film co-written, produced and directed by Andrew Davis. It marked the film debut of Steven Seagal, who also produced the film and co-authored the story alongside Davis, and stars Seagal alongside Pam Grier, Sharon Stone, Ron Dean and Henry Silva. Seagal plays Nico Toscani, an ex-CIA agent, an Aikido specialist and a Chicago policeman who discovers a conspiracy upon investigating a mysterious shipment of military explosives seized from a narcotics dealer.

The film originated after a successful screen test financed by Michael Ovitz, leading to Seagal being offered a contract by Warner Bros. It was set and filmed on location in Chicago, Davis’ hometown. The film premiered in the United States on April 8, 1988, becoming a commercial success despite mixed reviews, and launching Seagal’s acting career. Above the Law is regarded as the first American film to feature Aikido in fight sequences.