Law Abiding Citizen

Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler in Overture Films' Law Abiding Citizen

3 stars

How far would you go to see justice realized?

Rating: 14A
Stars: Gerard Butler, Jamie Foxx, Colm Meaney, Bruce McGill

What’s the story?
After former CIA brain Clyde Shelton (Butler) witnesses the vicious murders of his wife and daughter, he is distraught to learn that Philadelphia's state prosecutor Nick Rice (Foxx) has settled a deal with one of the perpetrators, exchanging a testimony for a lighter prison sentence. Ten years of careful planning later, Clyde's disgust with the corrupt justice system has transformed him into a manipulative yet brilliant sociopath. Determined to bring the flawed legal system to an explosive end (literally!), he self-righteously sets out to prove that everyone must be held accountable for their actions.

Why see it?
Seasoned director F. Gary Gray (The Italian Job) creates a tense film that rides on the intriguing plot and Butler's captivating performance. Butler is so compelling, even as “the bad guy,” that it is difficult not to be drawn into his twisted character. The film raises moral issues that are sure to create discussion long after the movie is over. Law Abiding Citizen has very few relaxed moments and uses its cryptic storyline to keep the adrenaline pumping until the final credits.

Problems?
Parts of this film are quite gruesome and those easily upset by gore may find it disturbing. Butler and Foxx lack the onscreen chemistry to give serious impact to the story's blurry line between good and evil. From their first shared scene the tension between the characters seems shallow, undermining the film's believability. As the film's protagonist, Foxx's stone-cold portrayal of the career-driven Rice feels detached and fails to capture the viewer's emotions.

All in all:
A taut, violent thriller that entertains despite the lack of star chemistry.