The Equalizer 3 – Film Review

Denzel Washington’s return as Robert McCall is undoubtedly a highlight of the film. Washington effortlessly reprises the role, exuding the same charisma, intelligence, and stoic demeanor that made the character so captivating in the previous installments. McCall remains a character driven by a strong moral compass and a desire to protect those who can’t protect themselves. Washington’s portrayal adds depth to McCall’s character, making him a relatable yet enigmatic hero.

The film also introduces some new characters, with Dakota Fanning playing Emma Collins, a young woman who gets caught up in the mafia’s grip. Fanning delivers a solid performance, but her character’s development feels somewhat rushed. We are given a glimpse into her troubled past and her connection to McCall, but it never reaches the emotional depth that it could have. Eugenio Mastrandrea as Gio Bonucci, the local crime boss, is suitably menacing, and his presence adds a layer of tension to the story.

The cinematography in The Equalizer 3 is one of its strongest assets. The film makes excellent use of the stunning Italian landscapes, with sweeping shots of picturesque villages and scenic vistas. These visuals provide a stark contrast to the gritty world of crime and violence that McCall finds himself in. The action sequences are well choreographed, and the use of practical effects lends a visceral quality to the fights and shootouts.

Where The Equalizer 3 stumbles is in its storytelling and pacing. The plot feels disjointed at times, with several subplots introduced but not fully developed. McCall’s personal journey in Italy is intriguing, but it often takes a backseat to the more generic elements of the story, such as the mafia’s control over the town. The film struggles to balance its character-driven moments with its action-packed sequences, leaving some emotional beats feeling rushed and underdeveloped.

The portrayal of the Italian mafia in the film is also problematic. The crime bosses and their henchmen come across as one-dimensional stereotypes, lacking the depth and complexity needed to make them truly menacing or memorable. Instead, they serve as convenient plot devices to propel the action forward, but they never become formidable adversaries that the audience can invest in. It’s a missed opportunity to create a more compelling antagonist.

One of the film’s biggest weaknesses is its lack of subtlety. The Equalizer 3 often feels heavy-handed in its approach to themes of justice and morality. The dialogue is filled with clichéd one-liners and speeches about doing what’s right, which come off as forced and uninspired. The film would have benefitted from a more nuanced exploration of McCall’s character and the ethical dilemmas he faces.

Another issue is the pacing, which oscillates between slow, contemplative moments and frenetic action scenes. While a varied pace can be effective, here it feels jarring and disrupts the flow of the story. The transitions between these different tones are often abrupt, making it difficult for the audience to fully engage with the characters and their motivations.

Sonia Ben Ammar‘s portrayal of Chiara Bonucci is one of the film’s more intriguing aspects. Her character adds a layer of complexity to the story as she grapples with her father’s criminal activities. Unfortunately, her potential as a character is not fully realized, and her arc feels somewhat underdeveloped. This is emblematic of the film’s overall struggle with character depth and motivation.

In terms of the film’s score, Marcelo Zarvos delivers a solid soundtrack that complements the action and suspense well. The music enhances the atmosphere of the film and adds tension to key moments.

The Equalizer 3 falls short of the high expectations set by its predecessors. While Denzel Washington’s return as Robert McCall is a welcome sight, the film suffers from a disjointed plot, underdeveloped characters, and heavy-handed themes. The stunning cinematography and well-choreographed action sequences provide some moments of excitement, but they can’t fully compensate for the film’s narrative shortcomings. Ultimately, The Equalizer 3 is a serviceable action thriller that fails to reach the heights of its potential. Fans of the franchise may find some enjoyment in seeing McCall back in action, but they may also leave the theater wanting more depth and substance from the story.