The Equalizer 4: Unlocking the Potential for an Epic Sequel

Summary

Director Antoine Fuqua reveals that a fourth film in the Equalizer franchise is not off the table, but Denzel Washington would have to return as McCall for him to direct it.

Fuqua believes that The Equalizer 3 will likely mark the franchise's conclusion. However, Washington's remarkable physical condition would enable him to continue starring in another movie if he desired to do so.

Although audience interest in the action franchise remains steady, it might be more prudent to conclude the series with a grand finale rather than allowing it to gradually lose its impact with a subpar installment.

Director Antoine Fuqua reveals that The Equalizer 4 is still a possibility, but there is a prerequisite that needs to be fulfilled. Following the success of the first two films, Denzel Washington will reprise his role as retired assassin Robert McCall for a new escapade set in Italy. The forthcoming movie will feature McCall facing off against the Italian mafia and is anticipated to conclude the franchise.

Ahead of the release date of The Equalizer 3, Fuqua revealed to EW that he would consider directing a fourth movie, but only if Washington agreed to reprise his role as McCall. Despite this condition, it appears that the director is quite certain that this will be the last installment. Check out his full comment below:

"I believe this would be the end. We have both discussed it that way. However, you can never be certain! I must say, Denzel is in incredible shape. He is training rigorously every day. If you saw him now, you would be amazed. He has lost around 60 pounds, even from his appearance in The Equalizer. He is genuinely healthy. Yes, the decision rests with him. Obviously, if he wanted to do another one, I would be on board too, but I do not foresee it happening. But who knows?"

Should The Equalizer 3 Be The Last One?

The first two Equalizer movies have been successful at the box office, each earning just over $100 million. Although the opening for The Equalizer 3 is expected to be slightly lower, it is likely that the film's overall gross will be comparable. This indicates that audience interest in the action franchise remains consistent, suggesting that even a fourth film would easily attract viewers.

However, it is worth noting that Denzel Washington, who plays the lead role, is nearing 70 years old. Eventually, it may become less believable for him to portray a character who effortlessly takes down numerous criminals. While Liam Neeson, who is 71 years old, still does this in his action films, the recent ones lack the same impact as 2009's Taken. Therefore, it may be more valuable to conclude the franchise with a memorable finale rather than prolonging it beyond its prime.

The Equalizer 3 will distinguish itself from the previous films by presenting a unique final chapter. The gloomy East Coast settings of the first two movies are replaced with the breathtaking scenery of the Amalfi Coast. Additionally, McCall discovers a potential romantic interest and forms new friendships. After experiencing numerous violent encounters, it seems fitting for McCall to finally have a happy ending in the upcoming film, rather than being forcibly pulled back into action to eliminate more villains in The Equalizer 4.