The Equalizer 3 takes a slow approach to a generic story. Going smaller is respectable, but this script lacks the emotional substance to sustain that tempo. Instead of a nuanced dissection of a troubled protagonist, it's simplistic and boring. Plus, the internal growth is contradicted by the external conflict's violent resolution. There's also a needless side plot that contributes nothing but minor fan service. Meanwhile, Denzel is confined to one emotion, so his layers and speech patterns are rendered monotonous (and unfortunately, nobody else can keep up with him). Overall, The Equalizer 3 isn't as thoughtful as it hopes and quickly becomes a forgettable flatline.
Technically, The Equalizer 3 is spotty. Its direction is dull and uneven. The imagery's stark lighting, desaturation, and oners are inconsistently appealing. Its editing adds fades, montages, inserts, clunky pacing, and no momentum. The sound provides violence and some emphasis. Its music offers regional songs, common scoring, and unique yet harsh synths. The production design supplies a small Italian town but is otherwise bland. Its cast surrounds Denzel with little support. The effects include makeup, blood, stunts, prosthetics, and faulty CGI. Ultimately, The Equalizer 3 isn't a bloated nightmare like other action blockbusters, but it isn't much of anything at all.
Writing: 3/10
Direction: 5/10
Cinematography: 7/10
Acting: 6/10
Editing: 5/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 6/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 6/10
Effects: 7/10
Overall Score: 5.8/10
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