Death Wish (2018): A Brutally Honest Review

Hey guys, let's dive into a brutal and honest review of the 2018 remake of Death Wish. This isn't just another action flick; it's a gritty, revenge-fueled story that sparked a lot of conversation. This film takes a classic premise and gives it a modern makeover, complete with some serious firepower and a whole lot of moral ambiguity. We're going to break down everything from the performances and the story to the overall impact of the film. So, buckle up, because we're about to get into the nitty-gritty of Death Wish (2018) and see if it's worth your time.

The Premise: Revenge Served Cold

Death Wish (2018) centers around Dr. Paul Kersey, played by Bruce Willis. Yep, that Bruce Willis. He's a surgeon living a pretty normal life in Chicago with his family until a home invasion shatters everything. His wife is killed, and his daughter ends up in a coma. Driven by grief and a burning desire for justice, Kersey decides to take matters into his own hands. He becomes a vigilante, hitting the streets and hunting down the criminals responsible. The film explores the moral questions that arise when a regular guy picks up a gun and starts dishing out street justice. Does he become a hero or just another villain?

This modern take on the original Death Wish updates the setting and some of the details, but the core theme remains the same: a man pushed to the edge, seeking revenge in a world where the legal system seems to fail him. The filmmakers aimed to make the film relatable to a modern audience, dealing with issues like rising crime rates and the feeling of helplessness in the face of violence. It's a dark and intense story that pulls no punches when it comes to the violence. The film is not for the faint of heart, it is graphic and hard to watch. From the very beginning, you can feel the tension building, and the narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Bruce Willis: Still Got It?

Okay, let's talk about Bruce Willis. He's a legend, no doubt. But the big question is: does he still have what it takes to carry an action film? In Death Wish (2018), Willis brings a different kind of performance. He's not the quippy, one-liner-delivering hero we've seen in the past. Instead, he plays a man consumed by grief and rage. He brings a certain level of vulnerability to the role that's unexpected. At first, you see him as a pacifist, a man of science, then he transforms into someone capable of extreme violence. This transformation is the heart of the movie, and Willis does a decent job of portraying the internal conflict. It's not necessarily his best work, but it's a solid performance that fits the film's tone.

Willis’s portrayal of Kersey’s transformation is gradual, showing the audience the character’s emotional journey from a loving father and husband to a man driven by grief and vengeance. His performance is key to making the story compelling, since the film hinges on the audience empathizing with Kersey’s motivations. The movie explores the idea of whether violence is justified or is the only way to solve the problem. The film is often criticized for glamorizing violence, but at the same time, it makes you question how far you'd go if your family was hurt. Overall, Willis delivers a performance that will make you think about your own morals.

The Action: Gritty and Realistic?

The action sequences in Death Wish (2018) are brutal and graphic. The violence is up close and personal, and there's no shortage of blood. The film doesn't shy away from showing the consequences of Kersey's actions, which gives it a gritty feel. The shooting style is very modern, with quick cuts and close-up shots that put you right in the middle of the action. The action scenes are well-choreographed and intense. They do feel somewhat realistic, which can be disturbing at times. The filmmakers aim for a raw and unflinching look at urban violence.

One thing that the movie does well is show the progression of Kersey's skills with the weapons he uses. At first, his actions are clumsy and brutal, but as the movie goes on, he gets better. The action keeps the movie moving forward, and there are many moments where the audience will be at the edge of their seats. The film wants the audience to feel the emotional impact of the violent actions, which is why it chooses to portray them as real and gritty.

The Supporting Cast: Supporting or Forgettable?

The supporting cast in Death Wish (2018) is a mixed bag. Some characters are well-developed, while others feel a bit underdeveloped. Vincent D'Onofrio plays Kersey's brother, and he adds some emotional depth to the film. He provides Kersey with moral support and a different perspective. However, some of the other characters, like the detectives investigating the crimes, feel a bit generic. They serve their purpose in the plot but don't leave a lasting impression. The focus of the movie is really on Kersey, so it’s understandable that the other characters might not have as much time for development.

Elisabeth Shue also stars in the movie, but sadly her role is cut short, due to plot reasons. Still, her presence brings an emotional weight to the film. Some would argue that the supporting cast could have been fleshed out a bit more to give the film more depth, but they fulfill their roles. They do contribute to the story and provide other angles to the main character.

The Verdict: Is Death Wish (2018) Worth Watching?

So, is Death Wish (2018) a must-see? That depends on what you're looking for. If you're a fan of gritty action films with a revenge theme, you might enjoy it. The film doesn't try to be anything it's not. It's a straightforward action movie that doesn't shy away from violence. However, if you're looking for a film with a complex story and nuanced characters, this might not be the movie for you. The plot is fairly simple, and the focus is more on the action and the moral implications of Kersey's actions. The movie is not a masterpiece, but it does what it sets out to do. It's an entertaining, if somewhat shallow, action flick.

It’s also worth noting that Death Wish (2018) has drawn criticism for its handling of violence and its potential glorification of vigilantism. The film doesn't provide easy answers to the ethical questions it raises. Ultimately, whether you enjoy the film or not will depend on your personal preferences and your tolerance for violence. If you're okay with a straightforward action movie, it's worth checking out. Just be prepared for a gritty and intense experience.

Conclusion: Should You Watch It?

In conclusion, Death Wish (2018) is a decent, if somewhat flawed, action film. It's not a masterpiece, but it delivers on its promise of a gritty, revenge-fueled story. Bruce Willis gives a solid performance, and the action sequences are intense and well-executed. The movie raises interesting moral questions, even if it doesn't provide easy answers. If you're a fan of the genre, it's worth a watch, but don't expect too much depth. It's a straightforward action film, and it delivers exactly what it promises.

Final Thoughts

Death Wish (2018) is a tough watch. The film can leave you thinking, especially about the violence. While it's not a perfect movie, it's a solid action film. The film is sure to spark a conversation about vigilantism and the state of society. If you're looking for an action movie, Death Wish (2018) will satisfy your need.