Review of The Punisher (2004) by Christopher G — 02 Sep 2011

There aren't many films I regret buying on DVD. This, unfortunately, is one of them, despite the fact that I got it from Poundland for £1. I want that £1 back!

For a start it's far too slow. The film starts well, then meanders for well over 40 minutes before finishing with The Punisher finally doling out some punishment. The fight with Harry Heck is too brief and the fight with the Russian is far too stupid.

Secondly, what's the deal with the humour in the film? The weird neighbours? The 'funny' fight scene with the Russian? It just feels out of place to ANYONE who knows anything about the Punisher. I know the 'original' Punisher series is slightly lighter-hearted than the Punisher Max series but it still feels out of place in this film.

Thirdly, why did it take the Punisher so long to actually dole out any Punishment? He's meant to be filled with anger & sorrow over the death of his family, so why does it take his next-door neighbour being tortured to make him actually really DO something?

Tom Jane makes a good Frank Castle but he was given a lousy script to work with and the film itself is just bad.