Fuqua, himself, states that there was a definitely Jodie Foster vibe with Mortez reading the role and you can see that allusion. After all, the plot line does smatter of an all action piece similar to that of Taxi Driver. And there is definite praise of Mortez’ work here, stripping back her stereotyped presence to deliver a tear inducing emotive role as a young girl forced into sex work. However, that being said, the film does feel extremely samey as though we have heard it all before. It could be fun as everyone likes to see bad guys brains explode and bloody bits fly at the screen with the smooth Washington quipping. But The Equalizer will do nothing to appease those looking for something different.
The Equalizer is out this Friday.