Review of The Punisher (2004) by Kai82 — 27 Aug 2021

Actually this is a really good movie and I don't know what the critics were complaining about. It won me over with its story, atmosphere, characters, interactions and their development. It is based of the Marvel comic character “The Punisher” aka Frank Castle who is an antihero that after a serious loss is on a mission to wipe out all criminals.

He believes in no second chances, dead is the only solution and will not hesitate. I admit that I mostly knew him from Spiderman as side character as he was not that popular in my country. However I heard the praise about this movie and watched it.

It was a positive surprise and if I looked at the Meatacritic reviews from other users I say this is the common reaction. It is done as set up / introduction movie of the (anti) hero. The story starts with undercover FBI agent Frank Castle’s last mission before retirement.

It is a hard job and his family is in constant worry or even fear that he will perish. He infiltrated an arms deal but this goes horrible wrong and ends with casualties. This puts him on the target list and starts the events of the movie.

I am vague here with the set up to avoid spoilers. The story works well. It is engaging, immersive matured and on top of that you clearly understand the characters motivations. The last point is also improved by the actors.

Their emotions, motivations and development are well interwoven and strengthen the movie. Also the atmosphere is well done. It is a cruel world and justice is just a concept or more of a vague idea. It is eat or be eaten.

Lets continue with the characters. Thomas Jane as Frank Castle works well. He could deliver the full range of the character and is excellent. John Travolta as Howard Saint is maybe even better and a highlight.

Both together work excellent. For the supporting roles we get a great Laura Harring as Livia Saint and a great Will Patton as Quentin Glass. These two were remarkable good. The rest of the cast delivers a solid good performance.

No missteps in that regard. The fights and action scenes work well too and enhance the experience. The impact can be felt and it never failed to deliver a satisfying experience. Visually the movie has a dark atmosphere.

There are not many special effects and it does not need them. The stunts and practical effects however are well done. Overall this was a positive surprise and I see it as hidden gem in the super hero genre (or anti hero genre?).

Worth watching and I recommend it.