Review of The Equalizer (2014) by Akshay H — 03 Apr 2015

One man show.

The Equalizer is just another generic and stylized Hollywood action thriller powered by its lead man Denzel Washington. The story is nothing new and blandly predictable. Only a person who has never watched a Hollywood action film in his entire life would like this screenplay. Denzel Washinton plays a mysterious man in his 40s named Robert who seems to possess highly professional skill sets of CIA agents type. He is seen settling with a peaceful normal life till he crosses path with a young girl Alina (Chloe Grace-Moretz). Alina is a prostitute and is need of serious help when she is badly beaten by some arrogant client and faces threats from her mobster Russian bosses. Steps in our Superhero "The Equalizer!" cleaning up the bad guys in matter of seconds. The mob kingpin in Russia Pushkin sends his best skilled man Teddy (Marton Csokas) to get rid of our hero and the battle begins. Honestly I felt the pacing was slow and boring whenever there was no action involved. Talking of the action our hero seems to have solution to any situation just like Liam Neeson in Taken and at the end of the we all know what is the outcome of the story.

Despite many of its shortcomings I must admit both Denzel Washington's acting and character were both kick-ass and very much likable. Robert, a man who is willing to help anyone in trouble and lives a simple selfless life. Who wouldn't like such a person. The action scenes were cool (ignoring the clichéd slow-motion shots), the way Robert examines the situation before he strikes was awesome. The bad guy Teddy was nothing more than typical Russian bad guy in Hollywood films. Chloe's role felt more like a guest appearance rather than supporting. The background score was bit too melodramatic. Overall I felt the film was quite boring. I would suggest this film only for action lovers who want the protagonist to come out unscathed magically from any situation and beat the hell out dozens of bad guys single handed and also for fans of Denzel Washington. Others should not bother.

RATING: [2/5].