Death Wish

Death Wish

Year: 2018

Runtime: 107 min

Language: English

Director: Eli Roth

ActionDramaThrillerCrime

In a city consumed by violence, Dr. Paul Kersey finds himself pushed to the brink when his family falls victim to a brutal attack. With the system overwhelmed, Paul turns to vigilantism, exacting revenge on the perpetrators and sparking a media frenzy about the mysterious killer. As he walks the thin line between justice and chaos, can he remain an avenging angel or will he succumb to his own deadly crusade?

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Death Wish yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Death Wish (2018)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Death Wish (2018). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's events occur in contemporary times, reflecting modern societal issues such as crime, justice, and the moral ambiguity surrounding vigilantism. The realistic setting allows audiences to connect with the protagonist's struggles in a relatable context where law enforcement's limitations are evident.

Location

Chicago

Chicago is a bustling metropolis known for its iconic skyline and rich cultural history. It serves as a backdrop for the film, which portrays both the vibrant life of the city and the darker underbelly of crime that lurks within. The juxtaposition of Paul Kersey's career in trauma surgery and the violent events that unfold highlights the city's dual nature.

🏙️ City 🚑 Medical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:39

Main Characters – Death Wish (2018)
Meet the key characters of Death Wish (2018), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Paul Kersey (Bruce Willis)

Paul Kersey is a dedicated and skilled trauma surgeon whose life spirals into chaos after a brutal attack on his family. Initially characterized by his compassion and commitment to saving lives, his transformation into a ruthless vigilante reveals his deep-seated rage and desire for revenge. As he journeys down this dark path, Paul grapples with the moral implications of his actions and the impact they have on his family.

👨‍⚕️ Surgeon 😠 Vengeance

Lucy Kersey (Elisabeth Shue)

Lucy Kersey is Paul Kersey's loving wife, whose tragic fate acts as the catalyst for the film's events. Her nurturing nature is evident, and her loss deeply affects Paul and their daughter. While her screen time is limited, her character's impact resonates throughout the narrative, symbolizing the fragility of family in the face of violence.

❤️ Family 😢 Tragedy

Jordan Kersey (Camila Morrone)

Jordan Kersey is the college-bound daughter of Paul and Lucy, whose survival from the home invasion brings a glimmer of hope amidst the tragedy. Her character is portrayed as intelligent and determined, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity. The emotional bond she shares with her father drives him to seek justice and highlights the consequences of violence on the younger generation.

🎓 Student 💪 Resilience

Detective Kevin Raines (Dean Norris)

Detective Kevin Raines is the investigating officer trying to piece together the violent events surrounding Paul's family. His character serves as a symbol of law enforcement's challenges in addressing crime. Raines becomes increasingly suspicious of Paul's vigilante activities, illustrating the friction between legal justice and personal retribution.

👮 Law Enforcement 🕵️ Investigation

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:39

Major Themes – Death Wish (2018)
Explore the central themes of Death Wish (2018), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Vigilantism

Vigilantism is a central theme in 'Death Wish,' as Paul Kersey transforms from a respected surgeon to a vengeful avenger. His actions raise questions about justice and morality, blurring the lines between right and wrong. The theme explores the consequences of taking the law into one's own hands and challenges viewers to consider the limits of justice in a flawed system.

💔 Loss and Grief

The film delves into themes of loss and grief, primarily through Paul's tragic experiences when he loses his wife and endures the trauma of his daughter's near-fatal injury. These emotions drive his descent into vigilantism, highlighting how personal tragedy can lead individuals to make desperate choices. It ultimately showcases the impact of violence on families and communities.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:39

Similar Movies to Death Wish
Discover movies like Death Wish that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.