Simply a story of a man who wants out but is ultimately thrown back in.

The man they call The Equalizer is Robert McCall (Denzel Washington). He earns this title through his actions in the film, which showcase why he deserves it.

At the start, we get to know McCall as a humble, quiet man working at a Home Depot-like store (called Home Mart in the film). He enjoys this life, and it shows in the little moments scattered throughout the film.

One night, McCall visits a café—something that seems to be a regular routine for him. But on this particular night, everything changes. Enter Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), a young prostitute. Personally, I don’t think she fits this role well at all. She looks too young for the part, and while there are a few scenes where she pulls it off, overall, it just doesn’t feel like “her.”

Teri introduces herself with small talk and a bit of flirtation, but when she realizes McCall isn’t interested in what she’s selling, she leaves. However, their next meeting is a completely different story.

Teri returns to the café—this time bruised and exhausted, immediately catching McCall’s attention. He offers her food and some kindness, but before they can talk much, her boss appears outside. After giving McCall a long stare, he hands him a business card for his “sex business.” Resisting the urge to act, McCall lets Teri leave once again.

The next time they meet, they finally have a real conversation. But just as things seem to settle, Teri has to leave, and McCall offers to walk her home. They share a simple walk-and-talk moment—until, out of nowhere, her boss, Slavi (David Meunier), appears, grabs her, and throws her into a car. McCall tries to step in but is stopped by one of Slavi’s goons. Once again, he watches her leave.

The next time McCall goes to the café, Teri is nowhere to be seen. Just as he’s about to ask, the waiter informs him that she’s in the hospital. At the hospital, McCall meets one of Teri’s coworkers, who tells him what happened. And that’s all he needs to hear.

At this moment, McCall fully becomes The Equalizer—and the badassery begins.

Overall, The Equalizer is a solid film with a strong cast. Denzel Washington brings his usual excellence, elevating the character to another level. His ability to switch between calm, crazy, and happy is on full display if you pay close enough attention.

Chloë Grace Moretz, as mentioned earlier, wasn’t the best pick for her role, but she gives it her best shot, so props to her for that.

David Harbour plays Masters, a corrupt cop involved in the drug trade. He does a decent job, though his screen time is limited.

Marton Csokas plays Teddy, McCall’s main adversary. If he and Denzel had a staring contest, I honestly don’t know who would win. Both have incredibly intense, expressionless faces. That said, Marton fits this role perfectly—he oozes evil, arrogance, and insanity all at once, making him a great villain.

If you enjoy justice, well-executed action, and Denzel Washington being Denzel Washington, this is a film worth watching.