Denzel Washington Blockbuster Exiting Netflix Almost Starred Russell Crowe
The action movie genre has experienced a notable resurgence in Hollywood, particularly for seasoned actors. Among the most successful films in this trend is The Equalizer, starring Denzel Washington. This film, which has become synonymous with Washington’s career, has led to two sequels and a fourth installment in development.
The Rise of The Equalizer Franchise
Released on September 24, 2014, The Equalizer was a commercial triumph. It achieved global box office earnings of $192 million against a production budget of about $73 million. The sequel, The Equalizer 2, premiered in 2018, grossing $190 million with a budget of $79 million. The latest installment, The Equalizer 3, was released in 2023 and similarly succeeded at the box office, earning $191 million from a $70 million budget.
Director and Collaborations
All three films in the franchise were helmed by director Antoine Fuqua. He previously collaborated with Washington on Training Day, which earned Washington an Academy Award. While there are plans for additional sequels, it’s still uncertain if Fuqua will direct them again.
Streaming Availability
The Equalizer is available for streaming on Netflix, but it will be removed from the platform on November 30. Viewers who wish to experience Washington’s portrayal of Robert McCall should take advantage of this opportunity.
Notable Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Interestingly, Washington was not the original choice for the lead role. The character of Robert McCall was initially linked to Russell Crowe, who had plans for a theatrical adaptation of the original television series in 2010. These plans involved director Paul Haggis, with whom Crowe worked on the film The Next Three Days.
Television Reboot
The Equalizer story also found its way back to the small screen. A television reboot featuring Queen Latifah ran for five seasons on CBS before concluding.
Upcoming Projects
Currently, Fuqua is focused on a biopic about Michael Jackson, which has generated considerable excitement with a trailer recently released. The revival of The Equalizer, both in film and television formats, showcases the lasting impact of this franchise.
- The Equalizer (2014): $192 million box office, $73 million budget
- The Equalizer 2 (2018): $190 million box office, $79 million budget
- The Equalizer 3 (2023): $191 million box office, $70 million budget
Stay tuned to El-Balad for more updates on upcoming projects and news in the entertainment industry.
