Antoine Fuqua’s 3rd (and final?) instalment in the Equalizer franchise delivers yet another round of bloody operatic catharsis. Yep, it’s more of the same pulpy crowd-pleasing vengeance wrapped in a stoic character study of a man looking for purpose. Although, this time around, it’s more of a search for peace. And unlike those unrelenting John Wick films, there’s plenty of time to breath between the action and build upon the characters and settings in meaningful ways. By the way, that setting - a village in Southern Italy, is uniquely picturesque. Fuqua does a great job of showing us all the charming and storied nooks and crannies it has to offer (not to mention stairs – so many stairs). As for star Denzel Washington, it’s another masterclass in minimalist acting. The subtleties, the nuances, the trademark charm – it’s all here on full display. If only the film’s pacing was as smooth as Washington’s performance. Unfortunately, things do get more than a little choppy as we head to the finish line, almost rushing the final showdown. And, if I’m being honest, the concluding "boss fight" is more than a bit anticlimactic. Jaggy jumps and hurried conclusion aside, there is definitely something to be said for the film’s stellar soundtrack – switching back and forth between soothing Italiano tunes and the film’s pulsating ominous score. It all adds to the picture’s palpable energy. In fact, the movie’s vigour never lets up – much like our leading man. And to that I say, Fantastico Mr. Washington!