“The Equalizer 3”: A Slasher-Style Action Thriller
The month kicks off with an intriguing entry, “The Equalizer 3,” directed by Antoine Fuqua and starring Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, and David Denman. This installment stands out in the Denzel Washington action franchise for its unique approach.
Quote from Pete Volk: “The movie opens by walking you through a house littered with bodies, staged in a way where it seems like Michael Myers came through, only to reveal a calm Robert McCall (Washington) waiting on the other side of the carnage.”
In “The Equalizer 3,” Washington’s character, Robert McCall, finds himself in a quiet Italian town, seeking peace but instead faces conflict with the Mafia. This movie brings together elements of a revenge thriller with the atmospheric tension of a slasher film, showcasing Washington’s talent in portraying an unstoppable force.
“Oldboy”: A Korean Cinematic Milestone
Next on the list is Park Chan-wook’s “Oldboy,” featuring Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, and Kang Hye-jung. Celebrated for its critical and commercial success, including the Grand Prix award at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival, “Oldboy” is a cornerstone of Korean cinema.
Toussaint Egan’s insight on “Oldboy“: “An electrifying blend of Hitchcockian horror, Fincher-esque violence, and a devastating finale worthy of a Greek tragedy, Oldboy is one of the most important thrillers of the early 2000s.”
The film’s recent addition to Netflix coincides with its 20th anniversary and 4K restoration re-release, making it an ideal time to experience this groundbreaking thriller.
“Mystic River”: A Tale of Tragedy and Grief
Clint Eastwood’s “Mystic River,” starring Sean Penn, Tim Robbins, and Kevin Bacon, is another highlight. This 2003 crime drama delves into the interconnected lives of three men haunted by their pasts and a present-day tragedy.
Toussaint Egan reflects: “What stood out the most to me during my latest rewatch is how unresolved grief metastasizes into misunderstanding, how an inability to communicate creates barriers within a community that eventually tear it apart from the inside.”
Both Penn and Robbins’ Oscar-winning performances underscore the film’s exploration of grief, trauma, and the complex web of human relationships.
Netflix’s January lineup offers a rich tapestry of thrillers, each unique in its storytelling, visual style, and emotional depth. From “The Equalizer 3’s” slasher-action blend to “Oldboy’s” intense psychological journey and “Mystic River’s” profound exploration of grief and community, these films promise to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. As the new year unfolds, these selections offer a perfect blend of chills and thrills for cozy movie nights.
