Vigilante films have seen a shift in societal acceptance, and many recently released titles struggle to connect. Among them is “Law Abiding Citizen,” which debuted on October 16, 2009. This film stars Gerard Butler and is directed by F. Gary Gray. Its message, mingled with harsh violence, has generated mixed reactions from audiences and critics alike.
Synopsis of Law Abiding Citizen
“Law Abiding Citizen” follows the story of Clyde Shelton, portrayed by Gerard Butler. After witnessing the brutal murder of his family, Shelton is disillusioned by the legal system when the killer escapes justice through a plea deal. Frustrated, he takes matters into his own hands, leading to chaotic repercussions.
Cast and Crew
- Director: F. Gary Gray
- Producers: Gerard Butler, Kurt Wimmer, Lucas Foster, Mark Gill, Alan Siegel
- Main Cast:
- Gerard Butler as Clyde Shelton
- Jamie Foxx as Nick Rice
Critical Reception and Box Office Performance
The film received a score of 26% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating poor reviews. Critics pointed to excessive violence and questioned its storyline coherence. The consensus described it as “unnecessarily violent and unflinchingly absurd.”
Despite the criticism, “Law Abiding Citizen” performed moderately well at the box office. It grossed nearly $130 million globally against a budget of around $50 million.
Director F. Gary Gray’s Journey
F. Gary Gray, known for directing the successful “The Italian Job,” has continued to make an impact in Hollywood. He later directed hit films such as “Straight Outta Compton” and “The Fate of the Furious.” Although he faced challenges with “Men in Black: International,” his work remains influential in the industry.
Where to Stream
“Law Abiding Citizen” is now available for streaming on Netflix starting in October 2023. This film could serve as a compelling choice for those interested in intense thrillers.
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