The reviews are out for Antonie Fuqua’s “The Equalizer 3,” the project marking Denzel Washington’s final outing as Robert McCall in what is his only film series to date.
In the new film, McCall is now living in Southern Italy when he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.
So far on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has pulled in 53% (5.9/10) which is on par with the first two which snagged 60% (5.7/10) and 52% (5.6/10) respectively.
Praise is strong for Washington’s performance, but little else gets commended. Here’s a sampling of review quotes:
“As self-contained as any episode of the television show upon which it’s based. It’s also as efficient and straightforward as that predecessor, if not quite as disposable, thanks to its peerless star.” – Nick Schager, The Daily Beast
“The film fits into what is best described as ‘Dad movies’ – films you’d happily take your father to with the confidence that Washington’s presence will win him over.” – Valerie Complex, Deadline
“There’s little to no suspense, because there’s never any doubt that McCall, who seems like a murderous automaton rather than merely a veteran secret agent, will triumph over his adversaries.” – Frank Scheck, The Hollywood Reporter
“As McCall spends a few scenes hobbling about with a cane following an injury sustained in the field, the anxiety of getting old nips at this movie’s heels, but its pipe dream of overpowered obsolescence responds with AK-47 fire.” – Charles Bramesco, Guardian
“A solid conclusion to an unlikely trilogy and a fitting end to Robert McCall’s character arc — with Washington still entertaining as a deliverer of slick justice.” – Amon Warmann, Empire Magazine
“‘The Equalizer’ series has always been about blunt force – that of Washington’s star persona in front of the camera and that of Fuqua’s action direction behind it, and that is still the case with this third installment.” – Dan Bayer, Next Best Picture
The film is set to open in cinemas exclusively this coming Friday, September 1st.
