Review of The Punisher (2004) by Zachattack — 19 Jan 2012
This was an average film, at best. The Punisher has its share of bad acting and poor dialogue. I thought Jon Travolta, the movies biggest star, was its biggest detraction. Jon managed to turn the cheese up to 10 in his role as a flamboyant mob boss.
I expected more from Jon, seeing how well he played the villain in the movie 'Face/Off' years ago, but alas, the magic didn't carry over to this film. I didn't like the films attempt to be 'cheerful' and 'light-hearted,' either.
The Punisher finds himself preparing for vengeance while living in an apartment building. Enter 3 oddball neighbors who constantly (and unsuccessfully) try to befriend Frank Castle. I know its an attempt to 'humanize' Frank Castle and make the audience more empathetic towards him, but really, this isn't an episode of Seinfeld.
The Punisher is supposed to be about revenge, not comedy. There were some positive things to note in the Punisher, however. The action scenes were good. There was an 80's feel to them, not unlike Arnold Schwarzenger and Steven Seagal movies of yesteryear.
There was one fight scene with a WWE wrestler (Kevin Nash) that was particularly good. I also enjoyed a scene where an assassin showed up to a diner and played a song on an acoustic guitar for The Punisher.
Overall, The Punisher is a mixed bag. It has some cheesy dialogue and acting, but also has some decent action sequences. I give it a 5/10.
This review of The Punisher (2004) was written by Zachattack on 19 Jan 2012.
The Punisher has generally received mixed reviews.
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