Why ‘Law Abiding Citizen’ Divided Audiences and Critics Despite Its Success

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In much the same way as many well-known actors, Gerard Butler has graced both successful and less-than-successful films throughout his career. For example, Zack Snyder’s 2006 film, 300, not only proved to be a box office success but also served as a pivotal moment for the Scottish actor in his career. Unfortunately, he has also had some notable flops, such as Dracula 2000 from 2003, Timeline, and 2016’s Gods of Egypt. However, his performance in Law Abiding Citizen left a lasting impression – the reception to this film wasn’t the typical divide between audiences and critics.

Various outlets such as Rolling Stone, Empire, and NPR critically analyzed the vigilante thriller, often discussing the questionable humor or lack thereof in the portrayal of the main character’s violent actions. Directed by Felix Gary Gray and written by Kurt Wimmer, the film centers around Clyde Shelton, played by Butler, who seeks revenge on the man responsible for his wife and daughter’s death. Additionally, he aims to overhaul Philadelphia’s entire criminal justice system, which involves targeting legal assistants, lawyers, and even the mayor.

Despite the film’s inconsistent mood, where one moment Clyde is gruesomely dismantling his family’s killer (off-screen), and the next he’s enjoying a new mattress and steak dinner in jail for aiding detectives, it was still recognized by the Saturn Awards. In 2009, Law Abiding Citizen was nominated for Best Action, Adventure, or Thriller Film.

‘Law Abiding Citizen’ Was Honored and Hated at the Same Time

Established by Donald A. Reed in 1973, the Saturn Awards primarily focus on the realms of science fiction, fantasy, and horror. Originally designed to shine a light on films that were often overlooked within the mainstream film industry due to their fantastical elements, it was indeed the case back in the ’70s and ’80s. Over time, however, the Saturn Awards have broadened their scope, incorporating additional categories as you might notice.

With esteemed members such as J.J. Abrams, Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, and Vince Gilligan (to name just a few) casting their votes for category winners each year, the Saturn Awards carry a sense of respect and significance that cannot be ignored. It’s troubling when movies like Law Abiding Citizen, which these renowned directors believe should compete, are ridiculed by critics for their storyline and rules, suggesting a potential disconnect in the evaluation process.

Was there a realistic chance for the movie to win awards considering it was up against heavyweights like The Hurt Locker, Brothers, and Inglourious Basterds? It seems unlikely. However, Law Abiding Citizen managed to be successful at the box office (earning nearly twice its budget) and boasted impressive performances from stars such as Gerard Butler, Jamie Foxx, Bruce McGill, Leslie Bibb, and Regina Hall. The characters they portray are like puzzle pieces; the plot of Clyde Shelton progresses only when each one takes their turn.

In the film “Law Abiding Citizen“, the shocking incident that sets off Clyde’s storyline occurs at the very beginning, carrying an intense emotional impact thanks to Director Gray’s choice. This powerful opening scene, while it ultimately portrays Clyde as a potentially deranged character, leaves no doubt that such a devastating home invasion could drive anyone to act similarly.

‘Law Abiding Citizen’ Has Too Much Going for It

Unlike most action movies, some of the deaths and explosions in this film come as quite a shock. If Law Abiding Citizen was truly as awful as critics claim, wouldn’t it be unlikely to have a sequel? Interestingly, Deadline announced in May 2022 that the original producer and screenwriter will rejoin for a new installment of the action-thriller starring Forest Whitaker (Butler).

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel excited about the upcoming film, despite the plot details being kept under wraps at the moment. What we do know is that it presents an opportunity for a franchise expansion, similar perhaps to Denzel Washington’s “The Equalizer” if this sequel manages to gain traction effectively. Some critics have described it as “silly and nasty,” but I beg to differ. It’s not the “relentlessly ugly, preposterous with hackneyed dialogue” that Empire Magazine seems to suggest. The film has already garnered the recognition of the Saturn Awards and sequel discussions, which clearly refutes such criticisms.

When prosecutor Nick Rice shakes hands with Darby, who admitted guilt for third-degree murder charges, it might suggest a fitting climax in a movie like this, filled with explosions, gunfire, and a high body count – quite unlike USA Today’s opinion. Such violence is often an effective form of retribution in films such as these. In a revenge film, the need for realism can be overlooked, as demonstrated by movies like Liam Neeson’s “Taken” or Keanu Reeves’ “John Wick”. If you’re curious about “Law Abiding Citizen”, it’s currently available for streaming on Starz.

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2025-04-06 05:02