Denzel Washington’s Action Thriller Franchise Thrives Globally a Decade Later
Denzel Washington has clearly established himself as a leading figure in the action thriller genre with his ongoing success in “The Equalizer” franchise. Since the release of the first film in 2014, Washington has captivated audiences around the globe, a decade later still thriving on streaming platforms like Paramount+.
The Equalizer Franchise Overview
The “Equalizer” series revitalizes a character first portrayed by Edward Woodward in the 1980s television show. Washington plays Robert McCall, a retired Marine and former DIA officer who emerges from a quiet life to protect the vulnerable. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the first installment was a critical and commercial success.
Box Office Success
- The Equalizer (2014): Grossed $192 million globally against a $55 million budget.
- The Equalizer 2 (2018): Achieved $190 million in box office sales on a budget of approximately $62 million.
- The Equalizer 3 (2023): Maintained a $190 million revenue with a remarkable 94% audience score.
Performance and Reception
Both “The Equalizer” and its sequel received a mix of reviews. The first film scored 61% from critics and 77% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. In contrast, “The Equalizer 2” garnered a 52% critic rating and 62% audience approval.
The storyline of the second film involves McCall seeking revenge for the murder of his best friend, which critics felt detracted from the original’s unique appeal, making it feel more like a conventional vigilante tale.
Current Trends on Streaming Platforms
As of now, the first two films are trending on Paramount+, currently sitting at the sixth and seventh positions on their charts. The resurgence in interest suggests that viewers continue to embrace Washington’s portrayal of McCall, ensuring the franchise’s viability for future projects.
With the success of “The Equalizer 3,” fans are left wondering what lies ahead for this action thriller franchise. Washington’s captivating performances and the quality of storytelling indicate that there may be more thrilling adventures on the horizon.
