The Equalizer 3: Denzel Washington Shines, but Prepare for a Divisive Ending

Summary

Fuqua and Washington's collaboration in The Equalizer 3 benefits from their established rapport, resulting in an entertaining movie.

The concluding installment of the trilogy brings closure to Robert McCall's character arc, as Washington delivers a flawless portrayal of justice. Though Washington's captivating performance anchors the film, the storyline occasionally lacks depth and falls short of truly captivating the audience.

Critics have started sharing their reviews for The Equalizer 3 ahead of its release date on September 1. Directed by Antoine Fuqua once again, this final installment in The Equalizer trilogy follows vigilante Robert McCall, played by Denzel Washington, as he retires to Southern Italy but is forced to confront the Silician Mafia to protect his friends. The cast reunites Washington with his Man on Fire co-star Dakota Fanning and also features David Denman, Sonia Ammar, and Remo Girone in supporting roles. Here are a few excerpts from the reviews:

Murtada Elfadl, Variety

Reteaming for the fifth time, director Antoine Fuqua and his ‘Training Day’ star leverage the familiarity they’ve established for the audience’s benefit.

Amon Warmann, Empire

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.

Charles Bramesco, The Guardian

The Oscar-winner returns for more carnage in a rote, violent sequel, this time saving an idyllic Italian seaside town from baddies.

Simon Thompson from IGN praises The Equalizer 3 for concluding the trilogy with a strong sense of style, energy, and cohesiveness that exceeds the expectations of most sequels. Fuqua and Washington's partnership feels fulfilled, culminating in a showstopping finale that serves as a satisfying conclusion to the solid foundation they have built over the past decade.

Chris Bumbray, JoBlo

Denzel Washington’s Robert McCall is back for his final mission, but the movie is so fun you’ll hope they keep making more.

Kate Erbland, IndieWire

The third (and final?) film in the action franchise gifts Robert McCall his greatest nemesis yet: the real-deal Camorra mafia.

Emily Garbutt, GamesRadar+

Denzel Washington is compelling in Robert McCall's swan song, but the story often falls flat.

Nick Schager, The Daily Beast

The Equalizer may be a typical B-movie action series, but the films are elevated by Washington’s signature charisma, charm, and intensity.

More to come...

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