The Equalizer: Denzel Washington's High-Octane Return to Action
Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Starring: Denzel Washington, Marton Csokas, Chloë Grace Moretz, Bill Pullman, Melissa Leo
Denzel Washington’s resume is filled with both weighty dramas and adrenaline-pumping action thrillers. The Equalizer firmly falls into the latter category, reminding us that Washington excels in both realms. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, who previously collaborated with Washington on the critically acclaimed Training Day, The Equalizer offers a blend of intense action and heartfelt moments, proving that Washington’s appeal spans genres and generations.
The Story of Robert McCall:
Based on the 1980s TV series of the same name, *The Equalizer* follows Robert McCall (Denzel Washington), a former covert operative who now leads a quiet life as a clerk at a Boston home improvement store. His colleagues respect him and often seek his advice, although they remain curious about his mysterious past. McCall’s life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), a young call girl under the control of violent Russian pimps. When Teri is brutally beaten, McCall’s dormant vigilante instincts are awakened, setting him on a path of ruthless justice.
Denzel's Stealthy Vigilante:
Washington brings his trademark intensity to the role of McCall, blending charm and deadly precision. At 59, he proves he’s still more than capable of handling high-impact action sequences, making McCall a compelling and believable hero. Unlike the over-the-top antics seen in The Expendables, Washington’s portrayal is grounded, adding a layer of gravitas to the character’s methodical and often grisly dispatching of villains.
A Reunion with Antoine Fuqua:
Reuniting with director Antoine Fuqua, Washington’s performance in The Equalizer is more subdued than his Oscar-winning turn in Training Day. McCall is a man of few words, exuding a calm demeanor even in the face of danger. Fuqua’s direction transforms violence into a form of crude ballet, with recurring imagery of flowing water symbolizing the cleansing of evil. This stylistic choice adds a unique visual flair to the film, although it sometimes detracts from the narrative’s potential to be leaner and meaner.
Character Interactions:
The relationship between McCall and Teri is handled with sensitivity, avoiding uncomfortable clichés. Moretz’s performance as Teri is sincere, showing her character’s vulnerability and aspirations without resorting to overt precociousness. Their bond becomes the catalyst for McCall’s return to his violent past, portraying a poignant connection that drives the story forward.
The Antagonists:
Marton Csokas delivers a memorable performance as Teddy, the primary antagonist with a torso covered in sinister tattoos. His portrayal of Teddy as a sneering, calculating villain provides a perfect foil to McCall’s quiet intensity. The film’s climactic showdown, set in the aisles of McCall’s workplace, turns everyday items into lethal weapons, offering a unique twist on the typical action movie finale.
Final Thoughts:
The Equalizer positions itself as an origin story, hinting at the potential for a new franchise. It’s a blue-collar take on the vigilante genre, with Washington’s McCall embodying the everyman hero who fights against those who prey on the innocent. While the film may not offer the same depth as Washington’s dramatic roles, it’s an entertaining and engaging action thriller that showcases his versatility as an actor.
**Rating:** ★★★☆☆
For fans of action-packed cinema and Denzel Washington’s undeniable screen presence, The Equalizer is a satisfying watch. It reminds us that even in his later years, Washington remains a force to be reckoned with in the action genre, delivering a performance that is both powerful and precise.