Review: Death Wish III Sets A New Bar For The Franchise
- Mar 6, 2018
- 1 min read
Paul Kersey (Charles Bronson) is back, and this time, he's taking the fight to them.
Upon return to New York, Paul Kersey finds his friend killed at the hands of violent gangsters, and the police find him with the body. On his arrest, the new Chief Inspector Shriker (Ed Lauter) recognizes him as the vigilante killer from several years ago. Instead of prosecuting him, Shriker puts Kersey to work, telling him he'll keep the law away for as long as Paul takes care of the problem. Paul Kersey is all to happy to oblige.
The idea that sequels are supposed to get bigger and better has never had quite such an example. While the prior films featured Charles Bronson wield a handgun and taking out no more than a dozen thugs, the finale of this film is like something out a a Schwarzenegger piece. Bronson guns down at least fifty guys. He brings a machine gun, the biggest pistol since Dirty Harry's .44 and even a rocket launcher. To say it's excessive would be an understatement.
Gone are the days of dark, brooding atmospheres and personal vendettas, that was the past, this is the future. While previous entries took a more serious look at Kersey's vigilante actions, this one brings a rocking soundtrack to accompany the gun-slinging, and it's wonderful.
Death Wish III is far and away the best entry the franchise has. It skirts the line between real and ridiculous, undoubtedly falling more on the ridiculous side. It's absurdly enjoyable and definitely worth checking out.
Comments