The Equalizer 2’s Shocking Ending That Both Excites and Frustrates Fans

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The performances of Denzel Washington as the retired U.S. Marine Robert McCall in the Equalizer series deserve close examination. Filmed when he was almost 60 years old, these action-packed films have all achieved notable box office success, which is truly remarkable. Although it’s interesting to discuss which one is the best, there are some specific aspects worth noting about one of them. Specifically, The Equalizer 2 was a commercial hit and has recently been included in Netflix’s top 10 movies list. However, it’s important to address an issue that may be problematic with this film.

In the 2018 sequel, McCall continues to live up to his name as he intervenes in several situations. He aids a mother whose child has been taken and is being moved to another country, searches for an elderly Holocaust survivor’s long-lost sister, protects a young woman from a group of cruel, affluent men, and attempts to steer a troubled teen away from a life of gang violence. Additionally, Susan Plummer, McCall’s former DIA partner, is also part of the narrative as she was investigating a murder-suicide before her untimely demise. However, some critics argue that the numerous storylines in The Equalizer 2 might be its downfall.

‘The Equalizer 2’ Goes in Too Many Directions

In the future, Richard Wenk (the writer behind the Equalizer series) might delve into McCall’s past for a deeper exploration of his character. While the 2014 film didn’t reveal much about this aspect, it is true that we were only given three key details: he worked at a hardware store, enjoyed reading classical novels in diners, and always traveled with his own tea bag. Unfortunately, this growing curiosity to understand McCall’s background clashed somewhat with the setup from the end of the first movie (McCall responding to help ads online), resulting in the events portrayed in the second film.

In addition to helping the individuals mentioned earlier, a key storyline in The Equalizer 2 unfolds. A warm greeting between Denzel Washington’s character Robert McCall and his old war partner Dave York (portrayed by Pedro Pascal) soon escalates into conflict when McCall uncovers the reason for York’s unexpected return.

As a devoted fan, I find myself immersed in the thrilling showdown between these two characters and York’s team of contract killers, unfolding in the storm-lashed town of Brant Rock, Massachusetts – a coastal village with a personal significance for me as it was once home to my character and his wife. In this chilling game of cat and mouse, I dart in and out of deserted structures, relentlessly pursuing the antagonists. The weight of this sequence isn’t as heavy as it should be, given its context, perhaps because of the emotional turmoil that preceded it.

The Climax in ‘The Equalizer 2’ Is Unforgettable

Revisiting the once bustling town, now torn apart by the tempest, as our protagonist struggles to expel the toxins from his past, could have been more spectacularly portrayed. Instead of opening with the Istanbul train scene (intended to captivate audiences), a dramatic flashback to his tranquil life in Brant Rock with his spouse or intense moments with York from the past might have intensified the gradually escalating climax.

Concerning how to handle the traumatized young woman, it’s clear that no additional action is required. Instead, delve deeper into Miles’ background (his troubled past) as his character arc has already been established in the narrative. A powerful scene where McCall imparts life and death lessons to Miles serves this purpose effectively. Miles steps into the role previously held by Alina from the initial film, and his compelling backstory provides a fresh perspective for The Equalizer, expanding its thematic scope beyond military contexts.

The movie’s inactivity might deter some viewers, yet this passive stance was consistently portrayed throughout the film. Robert McCall’s deepest struggle became increasingly evident after he visited Susan. She later confided to her husband that he didn’t seek aid; instead, he sought approval. Despite helping Alina in the previous film, it had been a while since McCall last embraced his soldier side. He was now far removed from that lifestyle, but York and his mercenary companions were once again summoning McCall’s former self.

In many films of this genre, a pause in the action sequences might be unusual, but for “The Equalizer 2,” it could have added depth. Flashbacks depicting Robert McCall’s war experiences and marriage would have underscored his transformation into the man he is today, resonating with the same action-loving audience. The intense gunfight in Brant Rock, Massachusetts, would have carried even greater impact. Currently, “The Equalizer 2” is available for streaming on Netflix.

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2025-05-17 00:32