Though we can’t strictly describe these as the first images from The Equalizer, since the pic of Denzel Washington in the chair has been floating around for months and the poster arrived last week, here is at least a nice new selection of glimpses at the film, via USA Today.
Speaking to Washington and director Antoine Fuqua on the set, the paper gets to the core of why the star has wanted to play a new version of Robert McCall, as originally embodied by Edward Woodward for the 1980s TV series. Turns out, it wasn’t the show…
"The title doesn't mean anything to me. It's the material," says Washington. "It's a classic story, the innocent girl and the guy coming in to save the day and kick some butt. You'll get some popcorn and escape for a couple of hours." Respect the Woodward, Denzel!
The plot finds the retired government operative choosing to live a quiet, humble existence until he crosses paths with Chloe Moretz’ prostitute, who needs his help with some Russian mobsters. Utilizing his skills, McCall becomes a vigilante pledged to help the helpless. And the role allowed Washington to return to badass form.
"There's a switch that he turns on and that's just scary," says Fuqua. "There's a sustained intensity even in casual mode, like a panther. If it's turned against you, you're going to be in a bad place." Washington apparently did as many of the fight scene moves as he was allowed, which should lead to some visceral fisticuffs.
While studio backer Sony seems happy enough with the movie’s test scores to kick off work on a sequel, Washington is more cautious. “The audience will decide that. You can't make No. 2 before you make No. 1. It's called show business. We've handled the show part of it. We'll see how the business part goes."
**The Equalizer **will arrive in UK cinemas on October 10. For more from Washington and co., head here.