The Equalizer, directed by Antoine Fuqua, is a gripping mix of quiet tension and explosive justice – and fans are calling it a “ten out of ten” film with an “incredible” performance from its A-list lead

A captivating blend of simmering suspense and explosive retribution returns to our screens tonight – and viewers are hailing it a “ten out of ten” masterpiece with an “incredible” turn from its Hollywood heavyweight, Denzel Washington.

Helmed by Antoine Fuqua, who previously collaborated with Washington on Training Day, 2014’s action-thriller The Equalizer breathes fresh life into the beloved 1980s television programme for contemporary audiences.

Washington portrays Robert McCall, a mild-mannered gentleman with an enigmatic history, leading a peaceful existence in Boston whilst employed at a hardware shop.

Lurking beneath his tranquil facade, though, lies a supremely trained ex-Marine and intelligence agent who previously served with the Defence Intelligence Agency.

When McCall strikes up a friendship with Teri, a young lady portrayed by Chloë Grace Moretz who finds herself ensnared in the brutal realm of Russian organised crime, his sleeping instincts are stirred back to life, reports the Express.

What starts as a modest gesture of compassion rapidly escalates into a solitary crusade against a merciless criminal empire.

Employing his military expertise and unwavering moral compass, McCall systematically tears apart the mafia organisation through a sequence of masterfully orchestrated and deeply gratifying confrontations.

The Equalizer’s power stems not from relentless gunplay, but from the measured rhythm and suspense Fuqua creates between moments of unsettling stillness and sudden brutality.

McCall coordinates his strikes with a stopwatch – a spine-chilling practice that transforms each confrontation into an examination of discipline and ethics. As one reviewer put it: “Loved it. Akin to Taken, but with more bang for your buck. Cool Hand Luke with a license to exterminate. John Wick without all the namby-pamby fist-fights. Glued to it the entire way.”

The picture was shot throughout Massachusetts, featuring scenes in Boston, Haverhill, and Chelsea.

It debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2014, garnering acclaim for its polished direction and Washington’s powerful performance.

While critics remained split – the picture holds a mixed critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes – viewers were hugely positive.

One fan said: “Amazing… ten out of ten,” whilst another praised it as “one of my favourite movies of all time”, continuing, “from the hero to the victim to the villain, everything was perfect. Anyone that rates this movie under a 4 can’t be trusted.”

Washington’s depiction of McCall resonated with numerous fans, combining quiet empathy with restrained intensity.

“One of my favourite action movies,” another critic penned.

“Great action, good villain, and I love Denzel’s acting – one of his best roles. His performance anchors the film’s moral core, turning what could have been a straightforward revenge thriller into something more thoughtful – a story about redemption, discipline and the blurred lines between good and evil.”

The picture proceeded to earn over $192million globally and generated two follow-ups, released in 2018 and 2023, both featuring Washington returning to his role. The Equalizer will be broadcast on Channel 4 tonight, at 9 pm.