Robert McCall finds himself at home in Southern Italy but he discovers his friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends' protector by taking on the mafia.
Hey there, action movie aficionados! If you're like me and have been following the adventures of Robert McCall, portrayed by the incomparable Denzel Washington, then you're in for a treat. The Equalizer 3 is here, and it's a rollercoaster of vengeance and justice. I had the privilege of catching an early screening, and I'm here to spill the beans on everything you need to know about this thrilling final installment in the franchise.
First things first, let's talk about the stellar cast. Denzel Washington reprises his role as Robert McCall, the man with a unique set of skills and an unwavering commitment to justice. His portrayal of McCall has always been a highlight of this franchise, and he doesn't disappoint in this final chapter. Washington's charisma and intensity are as captivating as ever, making it clear why he's the heart and soul of this series.
Dakota Fanning returns to the fold after her memorable role in Man on Fire back in 2004. It's incredible to see how far she's come as an actress, and her chemistry with Denzel Washington is undeniable. Their on-screen dynamic adds depth and emotion to an action-packed narrative.
Eugenio Mastrandrea joins the cast as a pivotal character in the story, and while his role might not be as prominent as the two leads, he delivers a solid performance that adds an authentic touch to the Italian backdrop of the film.
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, do yourself a favor and check out the heart-pounding trailer for The Equalizer 3 right here. It provides just a taste of the action-packed sequences and dramatic moments you can expect from the movie.
In The Equalizer 3, we find Robert McCall in a picturesque Southern Italy. However, his peaceful retirement is disrupted when he discovers that his friends are under the control of ruthless local crime bosses. As events take a deadly turn, McCall knows that there's only one path he can follow: to become the protector his friends need by taking on the mafia.
The film doesn't waste any time getting to the action. It's a thrilling ride from start to finish, with McCall employing his unique set of skills to dismantle the criminal empire threatening his friends. The picturesque Italian scenery serves as an interesting contrast to the violence that unfolds, making for a visually striking backdrop.
First and foremost, The Equalizer 3 delivers an emotionally satisfying conclusion to the character of Robert McCall. It's always a bittersweet feeling when a beloved character says goodbye, but this film does justice to McCall's journey, giving us closure in a way that feels both heartfelt and exhilarating.
One thing that sets this movie apart from its predecessors is the pacing. It's a slower burn compared to the previous films, but it works brilliantly. We get more time to explore McCall's character and the relationships he's forged over the course of the series. The stakes are higher, and every moment feels more significant because of it.
Of course, the hallmark of the Equalizer franchise has always been the satisfaction of watching McCall bring his own brand of justice to the villains. The Equalizer 3 doesn't skimp on this aspect. You'll find yourself cheering as McCall outwits and outmaneuvers those who stand in his way. It's a cathartic experience for fans of the series.
Now, let's address the minor gripes. If you're not a fan of reading subtitles, you might find the film's Italian segments a bit challenging. Personally, I didn't mind it as it added authenticity to the setting, but I understand it might not be everyone's cup of espresso.
Additionally, the introduction of Agent Frank Conroy, portrayed by a talented actor, felt somewhat unnecessary. While his character is not entirely superfluous, he doesn't have the depth or significance that the main characters do. It's a minor distraction in an otherwise compelling narrative.
One of the fascinating aspects of The Equalizer 3 is the reunion of Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning, who previously worked together in Man on Fire nearly two decades ago when Fanning was just 10 years old. Their chemistry has evolved and matured, making their on-screen relationship even more powerful.
This film also marks the fifth collaboration between Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua. Their partnership has been nothing short of legendary, from the iconic Training Day to the original Equalizer and beyond. Their synergy is palpable on screen, and it's a testament to their collective talent that they've created such a memorable character in Robert McCall.
In conclusion, The Equalizer 3 is a triumphant final chapter in the franchise. Denzel Washington delivers a performance that reminds us why he's a cinematic legend, and the slower pacing and character depth add a layer of complexity to this action-packed tale of justice. It's a must-watch for fans of the series and a fitting farewell to a character we've grown to love. So, grab your popcorn, buckle up, and get ready for a thrilling ride with Robert McCall one last time!
***
Ranking 7.8/10