Review of The Brave One (2007) by David G — 15 Jul 2009

A new take on an old idea (comparisons to Death Wish are inevitable) but The Brave One is a shining example thanks to a powerhouse performance from Jodie Foster who really convinces as Erica Bain - radio personality turned vigilante killer following the death of her boyfriend in a brutal gang attack.

I don't know if it's the eyes but you really feel her pain and confusion as the guilt and sorrow eat her alive. She backed up in the best possible way by Terrence Howard who portrays police detective Mercer, the cop following the trail of bodies Bain leaves in her wake.

Howard is an actor who seems incredibly comfortable in these kinds of roles and you know that whatever he's given it's going to be quality. I'm not sure I buy his character's plan for solving the films final problem - it seems to come a little out of nowhere - but it's a small niggle in an otherwise excellent, atmospheric thriller.