The Equalizer 4 (2025)

Release Date: September 12, 2025
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Starring: Denzel Washington (Robert McCall), Dakota Fanning, Pedro Pascal, Melissa Leo 

In this gripping fourth entry, Robert McCall comes out of retirement once more to confront a powerful international crime syndicate. The evil organization spans terrorism, human trafficking, and cybercrime—forcing McCall into a high-stakes global mission The stakes feel profoundly larger than before, balancing McCall’s quiet moral code against immense threats.

As expected from the franchise, Antoine Fuqua delivers polished, brutal action sequences. McCall’s trademark tactics—strategically disabling foes rather than brute force—return with renewed intensity. The action feels fresher, more inventive, and built on years of choreography and cinematic finesse 

• Denzel Washington continues to embody McCall’s quiet strength—his calm presence cracking open with explosive effect when justice demands it. His dedication is clear: he trained consistently, staying in exceptional shape for the role 

• Dakota Fanning reprises her recurring role, offering strong rapport and sharp on-screen energy alongside Washington .

• Pedro Pascal and Melissa Leo provide solid support in dramatic and emotional scenes, though their characters feel less defined than the leads 

Rumors also swirl about surprise additions—such as Keanu Reeves or Anthony Hopkins—but these remain speculative 

The film explores enduring themes of redemption, justice, and sacrifice. McCall wrestles with his past and his purpose—and the narrative probes deeply into what it means to live with choices made in the shadows The balance between episodic vengeance and personal redemption feels more nuanced here than in its predecessors.

• Top-tier action choreography shows McCall using quiet precision and creative tools—not just firepower—reinforcing his iconic style .

• Washington’s committed performance proves he can still captain an action franchise at nearly 70, refusing to rely on stunt doubles alone .

• Supporting cast synergy, particularly between Washington and Fanning, adds emotional resonance to the vengeance-driven plot 

• Familiar formula: The narrative structure—vigilante hero rescuing innocents—sometimes feels repetitive.

• Underexposed villains: The global crime bosses are imposing, but lack depth compared to McCall’s development.

• Franchise fatigue worry: With talk of a fifth installment, there's concern this could stretch McCall’s story too thin 

• Sony green-lit Equalizer 4 and 5 after consistent box office returns (~$190 M each) from prior installments 

• Though multiple entries risk dilution, the series remains a reliable action franchise thanks to Washington’s enduring appeal 

The Equalizer 4 delivers what fans expect: calculated, hard-hitting action, moral clarity, and Denzel Washington in top form. It’s a solid continuation that ups the global stakes and emotional stakes—but treads familiar ground too. While it may not redefine the franchise, it’s a satisfying late-career showcase for Washington.

Overall Rating: 7.5 / 10

Pros:
– Polished, engaging action sequences
– Washington’s powerful, nuanced performance
– Strong rapport with supporting cast

Cons:
– Trope-heavy formula
– Villains lack depth
– Risk of diminishing returns with extra sequels

If you're a fan of measured, intelligent action featuring a veteran hero with a moral compass, The Equalizer 4 is worth the ride. Just don’t expect it to break the mold—it hones it instead.