Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall finds solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Now living in Southern Italy, he soon discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall becomes their protector by taking on the mafia.
Directed by Antoine Fuqua and penned by Richard Wenk, this instalment in the series continues the exploits of Robert McCall, a vigilante portrayed with masterful finesse by Denzel Washington. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque coastal town, the film offers a blend of gritty action, character-driven moments, and the pursuit of salvation.
As the film opens, McCall is recuperating in the wake of a brutal confrontation on a remote Italian island. Battling ruthless adversaries, he demonstrates an affinity for dispatching those who deserve it with a chilling efficiency that echoes Liam Neeson's iconic action roles. However, the cost of such encounters leaves McCall wounded and seeking solace in a small coastal town, a place where strangers quickly become friends and where the ordinary struggle for survival is paramount.
This charming hamlet, however, is not immune to the threats of the outside world. A literal mafia, unflinchingly employing ruthless force, has set its sights on the town. Herein lies the crux of Equalizer 3 — the weary gunslinger, the benevolent townfolk, and the merciless outsiders. The stage is set for a clash of ideologies, a battle for the soul of the town, and McCall's chance at redemption in the midst of it all.
What sets Equalizer 3 apart from its predecessors is its individuality. While there are nods to the past films, the narrative stands largely self-contained, allowing newcomers to dive in without the burden of convoluted backstory. The film weaves a tapestry of themes — from the search for inner peace to the unyielding fight against oppression — all while maintaining an accessible entry point for audiences new to the series.
Denzel Washington, a veritable maestro of charisma, infuses Robert McCall with an undeniable magnetism that propels the film forward. His rapport with Dakota Fanning's CIA agent Emma Collins adds moments of camaraderie and amusement that break the tension of the action sequences. Fuqua deftly captures McCall's evolution, showcasing newfound layers of cynicism and depth that breathe new life into the character.
The film's locales brought to life through the lens of cinematographer Robert Richardson, play an integral role. The coastal town becomes a character in its own right, an oasis of warmth and humanity amidst the brutality. The contrast between McCall's contemplative interactions with the town's inhabitants and the unrelenting violence meted out against the villains creates a dynamic that fuels the narrative's momentum.
Yet, Equalizer 3 isn't without its shortcomings. The subplot involving the CIA, while woven into the narrative, lacks the same level of stakes as the main conflict. Dakota Fanning's character, though well-portrayed, becomes a conduit for McCall's instructions rather than carving her own path. This narrative imbalance sometimes detracts from the overall engagement.
Fuqua's direction embraces the film's R rating with unapologetic violence and gore. McCall's methods, in their brutal and excessive nature, harken back to characters like Marvel's Punisher, prompting audiences to question the very essence of his morality. However, the villains are not just corrupt; they are cruel and vicious, amplifying the satisfaction of seeing McCall transform into a relentless force of justice.
Amidst the blood-soaked streets and bone-crushing violence, moments of camaraderie and tenderness emerge. McCall's interactions with the townsfolk — from the kindly doctor to the amiable bistro owner — build a sense of community and purpose. Fuqua's skilful balance between character beats and carnage weaves a tapestry that resonates on both emotional and visceral levels.
The film's second act, while occasionally elongated and meandering, offers a unique empathetic insight into McCall's inner struggles. Washington's portrayal, marked by newfound sharpness and wit, offsets the pacing drag and infuses the narrative with a layer of complexity that was absent in previous outings.
Equalizer 3 boasts moments of intense violence and gore that cater to fans of the genre. From inventive kills to well-executed action sequences, the film doesn't shy away from embracing its R rating. Special mention must be made of the special effects team and makeup department, who succeed in bringing the violence to life in a spectacularly gruesome fashion.
In the grand scheme, Equalizer 3 is more than its bloody escapades. It delves into themes of salvation and peace, asking whether these goals are still attainable in a world tainted by violence. As Fuqua and Richardson capture the beauty of the Italian town, McCall's interactions with the locals serve as a conduit for cultural exchange and understanding.
Equalizer 3 is a film of contrasts — of contemplative strolls and frenetic action, of camaraderie and brutality. Denzel Washington's charismatic performance, combined with Fuqua's deft direction, ensures an engaging cinematic experience. While the film may stumble at times in its narrative progression, the allure of its charismatic cast and well-executed action sequences cannot be denied. For fans of the genre, Equalizer 3 offers an unapologetic dive into the world of a flawed but resolute avenger.
The Equalizer is in NZ cinemas from August 31, 2023