Release Date: September 1, 2023 | Directed by Antoine Fuqua
Starring Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, and more
When it comes to action-packed movies with heart-stopping thrills and an iconic leading man, Denzel Washington is a name that immediately comes to mind.
In "The Equalizer 3," Denzel reprises his role as Robert McCall, the retired U.S. Marine and DIA operative with a knack for justice, in the final installment of The Equalizer trilogy. This time, the vigilante heads to the picturesque shores of the Amalfi coast in Italy, setting the stage for a different kind of showdown.
Box Office Success
Before we dive into the action and drama, let's talk numbers. As of September 5, 2023, "The Equalizer 3" has raked in an impressive $72.3 million worldwide. In the United States and Canada alone, it brought in $46.2 million, exceeding early projections and making Labor Day weekend memorable with a $34.5 million debut. Clearly, audiences were eager to see Denzel Washington in action once again, and the film delivered.
Critical Response
But what about the critics? Well, it seems they have mixed feelings.
On Rotten Tomatoes, "The Equalizer 3" managed to secure a 74% approval rating, with an average score of 6/10. The consensus reads, "Another entertaining outing from Antoine Fuqua and Denzel Washington, The Equalizer 3 mostly makes up for its formulaic story with generous helpings of cathartic action." While it may not be a groundbreaking plot, it's clear that the film still brings the goods when it comes to adrenaline-pumping action.
Metacritic, on the other hand, was slightly more reserved, with a score of 58 out of 100. This indicates "mixed or average reviews," but remember, sometimes a movie's true impact can't be measured by numbers alone.
Audience Reactions
Now, let's talk about what really matters: what the audience thinks.
If the viewer reviews are anything to go by, "The Equalizer 3" seems to have struck a chord with fans. Many praised Denzel's performance, and the chemistry between him and Dakota Fanning, who reunite on screen after "Man on Fire."
The action scenes, though fewer than expected, are a highlight. Plus, it's worth noting that this installment goes light on explicit content, making it accessible to a broader audience. As one enthusiastic fan put it, "Denzel singing 'I know it was the blood…took the theatre out'—Awesome!"
However, not everyone was equally thrilled. Some viewers found the movie lacking in terms of action and plot development. One reviewer expressed disappointment, stating, "Unfortunately, this movie didn't do justice to Robert McCall's character. The movie was boring a lot of times except for the action scenes with Denzel in it and there wasn't many of them."
| Review Aggregator | Critics' Score | Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
| Rotten Tomatoes | 74% (120 reviews) | 94% (1000+ ratings) |
| Metacritic | 58/100 (38 critics) | 7.6/10 (25 ratings) |
| CinemaScore | "A" (A+ to F scale) | – |
| PostTrak | 90% overall positive | 72% would recommend |
| IMDb | 7.1/10 (combined) | – |
| Google Users | – | 92% liked the film |
For Whom is This Movie?
"The Equalizer 3" is for those who crave an action-packed thrill ride with a touch of nostalgia. If you're a fan of Denzel Washington and his previous portrayals of Robert McCall, this film is a must-see. It's also a great choice for viewers who appreciate charismatic leading men, intense action sequences, and a hero's journey with clear stakes.
This movie is accessible to a wide range of audiences due to its relatively restrained approach to explicit content, making it suitable for both Denzel die-hards and those looking for a thrilling popcorn flick to enjoy in the comfort of a theater. If you've followed McCall's journey so far and want to see how it all ends, "The Equalizer 3" is definitely worth your time.
While "The Equalizer 3" offers thrilling action and an engaging storyline, it may not be a perfect fit for every audience. Here are some considerations for viewers who might find this movie less appealing:
- Those Seeking Lighthearted Comedy: If you're looking for a lighthearted comedy or a feel-good film, "The Equalizer 3" might not be the right choice as it leans more towards intense action and drama.
- Young Children: Due to some intense action sequences and moments of violence, "The Equalizer 3" may not be suitable for very young children. It's rated for mature audiences.
- Fans of Light Romance: While there are elements of relationships and camaraderie, "The Equalizer 3" is not primarily a romantic movie.
- Those Averse to Action Sequences: While the film doesn't rely solely on action, it does feature intense action sequences. If you generally dislike action-packed films, this might not be your cup of tea.
The Future of McCall
What's next for Robert McCall and The Equalizer franchise? Well, in August 2023, director Antoine Fuqua hinted at the possibility of a prequel movie that delves into the origins of McCall. Imagine seeing a younger Denzel in action!
But that's not all. Fuqua also mentioned his interest in returning for another installment if Denzel Washington is game. So, while "The Equalizer 3" may be the final chapter chronologically, it doesn't necessarily spell the end for this iconic character.
Our Take
"The Equalizer 3" may not reinvent the wheel, but it keeps it spinning. Denzel Washington's charismatic presence and the stunning Italian backdrop make for an enjoyable watch. If you're in the mood for a movie that offers a defined hero's journey and doesn't rely on gimmicks, this one might be right up your alley. Just be prepared for a bit of a slow burn before the action kicks in.
Whether you're a die-hard Denzel fan or just looking for a popcorn flick to escape the heat, "The Equalizer 3" is worth a trip to the theater. It might not be the best of the trilogy, but it certainly provides the closure fans have been waiting for. After all, McCall's journey toward peace is something we can all appreciate.
So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the thrilling ride with Denzel Washington in "The Equalizer 3." You won't be disappointed!
Have You Watched "The Equalizer 3"? Share Your Review!
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Frequently Asked Questions About "The Equalizer 3"
Who stars in "The Equalizer 3"?
The film stars Denzel Washington as Robert McCall, Dakota Fanning as Emma Collins, and features a supporting cast including Eugenio Mastrandrea, David Denman, Sonia Ben Ammar, and Remo Girone, among others.
Is "The Equalizer 3" the final installment of the trilogy?
Yes, "The Equalizer 3" marks the final installment of The Equalizer trilogy. However, discussions about potential prequels or future installments have been mentioned by the director, Antoine Fuqua.
How did "The Equalizer 3" perform at the box office?
As of September 5, 2023, the film has grossed $72.3 million worldwide. In the United States and Canada, it exceeded expectations by earning $46.2 million, making it the top-grossing film during its opening weekend.
What is the critical consensus on "The Equalizer 3" according to Rotten Tomatoes?
On Rotten Tomatoes, the critical consensus for "The Equalizer 3" reads: "Another entertaining outing from Antoine Fuqua and Denzel Washington, The Equalizer 3 mostly makes up for its formulaic story with generous helpings of cathartic action."
Does "The Equalizer 3" have a lot of explicit content and violence?
"The Equalizer 3" is relatively restrained when it comes to explicit content and violence compared to some action films. It offers intense action scenes but avoids excessive graphic content.
Will there be a prequel to "The Equalizer" franchise?
Director Antoine Fuqua has mentioned discussions about the possibility of a prequel movie that explores the origins of Robert McCall. It's a potential project that could provide insight into McCall's early years.
How does "The Equalizer 3" compare to the previous films in the series?
Opinions vary, but some viewers found "The Equalizer 3" to be slightly less action-packed than its predecessors. However, it still offers the charismatic presence of Denzel Washington and a thrilling storyline.
Is "The Equalizer 3" suitable for a wide audience?
Yes, the movie is accessible to a broad audience due to its moderate approach to explicit content. It's a great choice for fans of Denzel Washington and those seeking a thrilling popcorn flick with a charismatic leading man.
What is the setting of "The Equalizer 3"?
"The Equalizer 3" primarily takes place on the scenic Amalfi coast in Italy, where Robert McCall confronts threats and fights for justice against local criminal elements.
Stay entertained, movie buffs!
Author: Richie Davis
Introducing Richie Davis! Armed with a Bachelor's in Journalism, Richie's career journey has been a reel adventure. From editing videos to crafting compelling narratives, he's now our go-to guru for all things cinematic. When he's not busy diving into the deep end of Movie mysteries, you'll find him swimming through the latest releases or binge watching TV Shows, dissecting flicks like a true Entertainment detective.
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