A retired agent befriends a young prostitute, and wages
war on the Russian mob after they put her in the hospital. ACTION/CRIME
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The Equalizer (2014)Directed by Antoine Fuqua
Written by Richard Wenk Starring Denzel Washington, Marton Csokas, Chloë Grace Moretz, David Harbour, Haley Bennett, Johnny Skourtis, Bill Pullman, Melissa Leo, David Meunier Based on the 1985-1989 TV series |
The Equalizer was an excellent action film that once again proved not every remake of a TV show is half-assed. Denzel Washington continues to be one of the most reliable action stars in recent years and this film is easily one of his best.
I've always enjoyed "one-man army" stories and this film is no exception. Much like John Wick, it revolves around Russian mobsters screwing with the wrong man. However, it did seem to be missing whatever made John Wick so amazing. That is, until the epic climax. The finale of The Equalizer made the entire movie, as far as I'm concerned. The music, the atmosphere, the psychological distress, all of it was perfect. I really enjoyed this film and consider it one of the better action flicks of the decade so far. It's smartly written, it's exciting, and it is filled with enough violence to sate any action fan. I definitely recommend it. |
The Equalizer proves yet again why Denzel Washington is one of the most under used action stars around. Teaming up again with his Training Day director, Antoine Fuqua, the two provide another fun, intense thrill ride through the seedy underbelly of the Russian mafia. I look forward to the next action film starring Denzel Washington.
While I'm not too familiar with the TV show this movie is based on, I will say that the plot, while not wholly original, is well told and does a fantastic job of setting up the characters before the action starts. Denzel Washington is exceptional as Robert McCall, a seemingly normal man who may be hiding a dangerous past. While her screen time was limited, Chloe Grace Moretz does a good job as the young girl in a bad situation. Antoine Fuqua shows off his considerable knowledge of well executed action scenes throughout the film with Washington rising to the challenge, as well. Both end up giving the film some cool and well done action scenes, with Washington's character making it look easy as he brutally kills the Russian mob. Finally, the climactic fight scene was beyond astounding; with the music, atmosphere, and stealth tactic culminating in one of the most exciting finales in an action movie. Besides from the pacing being slow at times, this was a very good, intense action movie. Washington brings his gravitas and butt kicking abilities to the role, proving to be the perfect fit for the part. With talks of a sequel coming out in 2017, I, for one, can't wait. |