Fans believe it is one of the best films starring Denzel Washington

A ‘gruesome’ action thriller that some claim is ‘superior to John Wick’ is silently disappearing from Netflix.

Featuring legendary actor Denzel Washington, The Equalizer initially arrived in cinemas during 2014. The film serves as a reboot of the beloved 1980s television series bearing the identical title.

Washington assumes the lead role of ex-CIA operative Robert McCall. He represents a figure of enigmatic background who considers his brutal history firmly behind him and commits to establishing a peaceful new existence.

Nevertheless, upon encountering Teri, a young woman who has been mistreated by ruthless Russian criminals, he simply cannot turn his back.

Armed with his impressive capabilities, McCall abandons his self-imposed retirement and surfaces as a vengeful guardian, prepared to eliminate anyone who terrorises the defenceless.

Fans think it is one of Denzel Washington’s finest performances (Image: Sony)

Whilst the picture may not have earned critical acclaim, it nonetheless succeeded in generating a remarkable $192 million at the global box office. Such commercial triumph eventually inspired the creation of two follow-up films, reports the Mirror.

The Equalizer’s original theatrical release found itself somewhat eclipsed by a comparable production that debuted simultaneously – John Wick. Throughout the years, both pictures have inevitably faced comparison from audiences.

The argument continues to this day, but those who have yet to witness whether Washington’s performance surpasses Keanu Reeves are facing a deadline. Although the movie joined Netflix’s catalogue last summer, it faces removal from the streaming platform within days.

A notice currently shows that the final opportunity to watch the film on the platform is 28 February. Nevertheless, at the time of writing, it remains available for streaming through Sky Cinema or NOW.

Therefore, John Wick enthusiasts who haven’t yet experienced Washington’s action thriller are encouraged to view it without delay. As one viewer recommends: “Well if you’ve watched John Wick, then you have got to see this. Not only it has such badass moments intricately represented by Denzel Washington but also has moments that give you that ‘feel good’ when you see him going about his business.”

The film was a reboot of a 80s TV show (Image: Sony)

They continued: “Action is neatly choreographed and in certain scenes you don’t need to think how that guy went down. Special mention to the subtlety that The Equalizer brings to the table which seemed to be lacking in John wick. Definitely worth your time!”.

Another contributor posted on Reddit with the title ‘The Equalizer is better than John Wick. Change my mind’ and argued: “They managed to make The Equalizer a much deeper movie, with a slower pace and much better character development. The gruesome violence has much more impact and is better filmed, without that gratuitous barrages of bullets and bulletproof jackets. One could also argue that Denzel being a better actor helps The Equalizer to stand out.”

Someone else declared: “It’s like Sherlock Holmes meets John Wick with a hint of the Accountant. Best of all there is compassion and a will to do good.”

Yet another viewer remarked: “Amazing movie. Ten out of ten. Could watch on repeat and would never get bored.”

Meanwhile, numerous fans contend that both films are equally deserving of attention. As one viewer concluded: “It’s pure entertaining action drama which gives you John Wick type vibes. I’m not comparing the movies, both are good in their own style.

“The story was simple and effective, the screenplay was good but little bit loose, the direction was good and the performances were also good especially Denzel’s.”

The Equalizer is streaming on Netflix until February 28.