Denzel Washington Wraps the Trilogy with The Equalizer 3: A Review Roundup
When the buzz around a film commences, movie enthusiasts worldwide wait in anticipation to gauge if their expectations will be met. As the reviews of The Equalizer 3 flood in, the consensus seems to be a mixture of admiration for Denzel Washington’s magnetic performance and skepticism about other facets of the movie. The movie, directed by the renowned Antoine Fuqua, promises thrilling action in Southern Italy where Robert McCall, played by Washington, tackles the Sicilian Mafia. But, what are the critics saying?
Washington and Fuqua: The Power Duo
“Murtada Elfadl” of Variety points out the rapport between Fuqua and his ‘Training Day’ star, emphasizing the value they bring to the audience due to their established camaraderie. Simon Thompson from IGN adds to the praise, suggesting the pair’s combined efforts deliver “a showstopping dessert at the end of a solid three-course meal they’ve been preparing for almost a decade.”
More Than Just Action
While the franchise is known for its action sequences, some critics have shed light on its more nuanced elements. Charles Bramesco from The Guardian highlights the film’s subtle commentary on aging, remarking on scenes where McCall’s vulnerabilities become evident. Kate Erbland of IndieWire comments on the movie’s villain, mentioning McCall’s confrontation with the menacing Camorra mafia.
Mixed Feelings about the Trilogy’s Conclusion
Opinions about how the trilogy wraps are varied. Amon Warmann of Empire views it as “a solid conclusion” to Robert McCall’s character arc, while Emily Garbutt from GamesRadar opines that the story occasionally lacks depth. Nevertheless, Chris Bumbray of JoBlo articulates a sentiment likely shared by many fans, expressing hope for more films, given how enjoyable this installment has turned out to be.
Trilogy’s Evolution: A Retrospective
The Equalizer series, inspired by the 1980s TV series, has seen its ups and downs. The 2014 debut received appreciation for its unique style, despite lacking in the emotional depth department. Four years later, its sequel, The Equalizer 2, did not live up to the expectations set by its predecessor. Critics felt that the second movie, despite its commercial success, wasn’t on par with the magic that Washington and Fuqua usually bring.
However, The Equalizer 3 reviews reflect that the franchise has managed to retain its essence. While some aspects remain contentious, there’s no denying that Denzel Washington’s presence commands respect and elevates the film.
In Conclusion
It’s evident that while The Equalizer 3 brings the trilogy to a close, it does so amidst a cloud of mixed reviews. Regardless of the varied opinions, Denzel Washington’s stellar performance is a unanimous point of praise. As the film’s release date approaches, it’s clear that Washington’s portrayal of Robert McCall will continue to be a major discussion point, and rightly so. Whether or not this is the end of McCall’s story, his legacy in action cinema is undeniably monumental.