Review of Death Wish (1974) by Gavin D — 31 Jul 2012

"Vigilantism-City Style...Judge, Jury And Executioner.".

A highly controversial crime thriller at the time it came out in 1974, Death Wish is the ultimate film of revenge and vengeance. A seriously gritty, dark, bloody and intensely violent classic thats stood the test of time quite well. An absorbing and highly engaging film thats disturbing and gripping with its tonal plot and pulse poundingly hardboiled nature, the ultimate "guy" film. A mid 70's gem and landmark film in more ways than one. Director Michael Winner (Lawman, Scorpio, Death Wish) helmed the film with pin point precision and spot on accuracy. An inspiration for countless films to come, its stance on pro-vigolante justice was unheard of at the time, and sparked countless controversies across the country. Its a savagel brutally intense film that keeps you watching even with the supremely violent concepts. Death Wish spawned 5 ridiculously inferior sequels, all of which tried to live up to the original, but all of which failed miserably. Death Wish is most definately not for the faint of heart, but its a damn good film throughout. A winner by Michael Winner and company.

Charles Bronson stars and rose to Hollywood fame with his rogue good guy performance, he gave one of the best and most powerful performances of his career in this film. Hope Lange and Vincent Gardenia give great supporting roles throughout. Jeff Goldblum also gave his big screen debut in this one.