The Equalizer
Robert McCall is a former special service commando who faked his own death in hopes of living out a quiet life. Instead, he comes out of his self-imposed retirement to save a young girl, and finds his desire for justice reawakened after coming face-to-face with members of a brutal Russian gang. McCall becomes the go-to man when the helpless require the kind of vengeance they would never find without his skills.
flavo43 reviewed
November 24, 2025•
The Equalizer is one of the rare modern reimaginings that genuinely improves on its source material while still respecting what made it great. I was a fan of the original TV series, so when Denzel Washington took on the role of Robert McCall, I was curious—but the result completely impressed me. The film gives McCall a thoughtful, grounded background story that explains why he offers his unique brand of justice, something the original series only hinted at. Reimagining his former intelligence ties, especially his CIA contacts, adds depth and credibility to his skills without undermining the character’s quiet, methodical nature.
Denzel brings a powerful mix of calm, compassion, and explosive precision to McCall, delivering a performance that feels both iconic and entirely his own. The action is brutal but purposeful, and the film’s tone matches the modern world while keeping the “help the helpless” spirit alive. The Equalizer is smart, stylish, and a worthy successor to the classic series.