The Equalizer 3
3/4
One of the most interesting action franchise trilogies that I’ve ever seen is The Equalizer series. While these three films aren’t perfect, they deliver kinetic action sequences and an engaging performance by franchise lead Denzel Washington.
I’m happy to report that the third film is no exception. It delivers fast-paced action, great character moments, and a committed performance by Washington, all of which make this movie a fitting end to the trilogy.
Washington plays retired Defense Intelligence Agency officer Robert McCall, who, after being wounded in an attempt to retrieve a valuable item in southern Italy, learns that his newfound friends are being harassed by a local drug-trade gang. After a leader of the gang performs horrific acts against one of his friends, McCall plans to take down their operations.
Washington is considered by many to be one of the finest actors of today and has proven time and time again that he’s surely one of the hardest-working actors today. This movie shows him giving one of the most restrained performances he’s ever done. He shows great ability to perform action sequences as well as do typical Denzel stuff, drama-wise. Not a lot of people think of Washington as an action hero, but this movie proves everyone wrong. He’s a great action hero, is convincing when delivering drama, and he makes us believe he can do all these incredible stunts, as well. His performance is the main thing I enjoyed about this movie.
Another thing I enjoyed is Antoine Fuqua’s stellar direction. This director has really shown an eye for action. Each of the action sequences are thrilling and well-paced, and the performances are refined and meticulously handled.
The cinematography by three-time academy award winner Robert Richardson is excellent. What Richardson does with the camera is extraordinary: his quick shots and use of dark and light is completely absorbing and brings the audience into the film.
One thing that I didn’t like is the character of McCall: for an action film, it’s not that he’s not a great character, it’s just that he’s very rarely challenged. He’s good at everything, and no one can match him. As a result, much like a Jason Bourne flick, there are no real stakes, which takes some of the tension out of this movie.
What I really love about the Equalizer franchise as a whole is its briskly placed kinetic action and committed performances from Washington. This final installment is all of that and more. It’s also a fitting end to this trilogy, and anyone who has enjoyed the previous two films will be very satisfied with this one.