Review of Death Wish (1974) by Jay M — 25 Jun 2007

Having no read the original novel, I had nothing to compare the movie to apart from the first sequel, and with a director such as Micheal Winner, I wasn't hoping for big things despite it's cult status. the first thing you do after watching this film is show great empathy toward Kersey, as any warm-bloodied male would do the same thing in his shoes. it's quite bitter in some places, especially the scene where kersey asks the Doctor how his wife is, relieved at hearing his daughter is OK, the Doctor gives him the bad news.

The story is great and the settings are genius, showing New York in a different light to other movies set in the city. the writing is not the best but it fits the movie well. the editing could be a little bit more slick and it was a little annoying that Kersey 'got over' things quickly.

But the film does raise a questions or two.

Why would Kersey just randomly go out and kill these people, is he intentionally looking for this, or is it just a power trip knowing that he is carrying a gun?

Why is he not arrested at the end? surely he has committed murder and must be tried like any one else, or maybe the mayor realises that he has bought crime to a new low and is making him look good.

I also think that Kersey not finding the killers of his wife was a good move yo make, because even if he did find and kill them, would he feel that justice had been served?

A great ending also, almost the same as something like the hulk.