Butler plays Clyde Shelton a married father of one who loses his wife and daughter at the hands of a pair of vicious murderers. Believing that ‘some justice is better than no justice at all’ lawyer Nick Rice – who will do anything he can to protect his 96% winning streak – decides to only prosecute one of the perpetrators, allowing the other to go free after serving a minimal jail time. However Clyde soon realises that if justice is to be done he must do it himself, and the former government spy goes on a mission to bring down everyone involved and at the top if his list is Nick Rice.
Law Abiding Citizen is an enjoyable and at times laugh-out-loud funny film filled to the brim with action packed sequences and a story that keeps you engaged and entertained. While the film is unlikely to be a contender for Best Picture of the year, it does succeed in delivering an amusing and likeable ride with a host of characters who are appealing; even if the plot is not entirely believable. While the ending does become a tad convenient slash predictable and the conclusion a little farfetched, overall this Crime Drama from the director of The Italian Job is a whole lot of fun and I could think of far worst ways to spend an evening.
Jamie Foxx gives a good performance as Nick Rice but it was hardly a stretch for the BAFTA and Oscar winning actor who has proven to be capable of noteworthy dramatic parts – he could have played the role with his eyes shut. Butler on the other hand never stops being ‘Gerard Butler’ and you can’t help wonder what a Scottish man is doing at the heart of this American drama.
Director: F Gary Gray
Release Date: 28th November 2009
Cast included: Gerard Butler, Jamie Foxx, Viola Davis, Regina Hall and Colm Meaney
Review by Karla Williams