The first time I attempted to watch this film it seemed like a very violent revenge-porn type file, in the first 30 minutes or so. I was an idiot to stop watching at that point. The plot really takes off after Gerard Butler kills the murderer of his wife and daughter. I see in his character not a "revenge maniac" but a very sad individual with everything taken from him and no hope whatsoever. I actually think Gerard Butler is a terrific actor in a dramatic film.. I have to admit that many scenes had me crying because of the futility of revenge and the pain it only brings, never satisfaction. But it seems to be all we are left with , except acceptance of Gods love and this for many is not enough to make up for what was lost.

Please see this film with any adult friends or children over 15 only. This is one of the best films that demonstrates what a broken legal system we have.

Just stop watching the movie 15 minutes before the end. Make your own ending. It will be much better than the actual movie ending. Trust me!

The movie is well made, good acting, moving plot, good pace. The horrifying and heartbreaking reason for revenge in the introduction makes the brutal and methodically executed sequel in which the perpetrators of the robbery are executed, understandable and even accepted. Certainly when clearly the system fails to adequately give justice.

It is not pretty, or good, but hey, they started it.

Much of the story, however, involves the politically correct and sociologically responsible twaddle. The protagonist (Gerard) must of course be held accountable for his actions as judge, jury, and executioner. And the other main lead (Fox), the embodiment of righteousness and law and order, must chase and arrest this vigilante.

After the justifiable revenge on the robbers, the story devolves in a maniacal plot on revenge to the whole system where the justice system, led by D.A. Rice -really, the D.A. is actively involved?- saves the day. And even outwits the genius, but clearly derailed Shelton, in so far as that he blows himself up with his own device meant for the town's dignitaries.

Hurrah, civilization triumphs again. The police has the monopoly on violence, and revenge may never be your's, chump, I mean citizen. No matter how much injustice and brutality has been dealt. And if the system fails, well, tough noogies.