Death Wish: A Predictable Yet Engaging Revenge Thriller
Death Wish (2018) presents a familiar narrative of vengeance, offering an easily digestible cinematic experience that doesn’t plunge into despair.
The story revolves around Paul Kersey (Bruce Willis), a Chicago-based surgeon leading an idyllic life with his wife, daughter, and fulfilling work in the emergency room. This tranquility shatters when burglars invade his home, resulting in his wife’s death and his daughter’s coma. Frustrated by the police’s stalled investigation, Kersey decides to take matters into his own hands. He procures a weapon from a patient, learns to use it through online tutorials, and embarks on a nocturnal quest for justice. His actions, culminating in the elimination of a car theft gang, transform him into a social media sensation dubbed the “Grim Reaper.”
From Controversial to Conventional: The Evolution of Vigilante Justice
The original Death Wish (1974), directed by Michael Winner and starring Charles Bronson, sparked considerable debate about crime, punishment, and the role of ordinary citizens in defending themselves. However, the concept of “people’s vengeance” has since become a commonplace trope in Hollywood. Eli Roth’s remake largely avoids political commentary, focusing instead on delivering a streamlined thriller.
Action and Gore: A Minimalist Approach
The film eschews deep introspection in favor of brisk action sequences. Willis’s character initially targets random criminals before focusing on the perpetrators of his family’s tragedy. While extended gunfights are scarce, the film compensates with graphic depictions of violence, showcasing the gruesome consequences of headshots.
Realism and Irony: Balancing the Tone
The film acknowledges the protagonist’s lack of combat experience, portraying his initial struggles with firearms. While it might seem implausible for a surgeon to transform into a lethal vigilante, the film maintains a sense of realism by pitting him against ordinary street thugs rather than highly trained operatives. This allows for a believable progression as Kersey hones his skills and pursues his targets with determination. Moreover, his medical expertise proves useful in unexpected ways.
Despite its dark premise, Death Wish incorporates humor and irony to prevent it from becoming overly bleak. The characters avoid succumbing to despair, and the film ultimately emphasizes the pursuit of revenge and justice rather than a morbid fascination with death.
Final Verdict: A Passable Thriller
While Death Wish may not offer groundbreaking originality or intricate plot twists, it remains a watchable thriller. The presence of Bruce Willis, Vincent D’Onofrio, and Dean Norris adds some appeal, but doesn’t elevate the film to exceptional status. If you’re seeking a straightforward, bloody action film and have a couple of hours to spare, Death Wish could be a reasonable choice.