Law Abiding Citizen

Released: 2009

MPAA rating: R

Running time: 1:48

Before I get into this review, you should know that I usually enjoy Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx (well, when he's not singing) in movies.  So, that may make this review a little more positive than it could be.  So, here we go.  "Law Abiding Citizen" refers to Clyde Shelton (Gerard Butler), who is a simple, quiet man who finds his world turned upside down when his wife and daughter are brutally murdered during a home invasion.  He is horrified when DA Nick Rice (Jamie Foxx) makes a deal with one of the assailants to get a conviction on the other.  Several years later, when the man is released, Shelton gets some measure of revenge and is jailed for his efforts.  Oddly, the revenge doesn't stop there and even though he is safely behind bars, he still seems  to be getting to the people involved in the case and the decision to make a deal.  As Rice would be squarely in the middle of those crosshairs, it becomes a battle of wills and investigation skills to find out how Shelton is doing what he is doing before he turns his attention on Rice.  Both actors are good and their scenes together are a lot of fun.  This isn't exactly highbrow drama, so if you're looking for a believable story, look elsewhere. This is pure escapism entertainment and a pretty solid revenge film.  No, it would not win any awards as the writing takes way too many liberties, but I had fun watching it.  

Grade: B-

Trailer: