The 2018 film **Death Wish** is an action-thriller remake directed by Eli Roth and starring Bruce Willis. It follows Dr. Paul Kersey, a Chicago surgeon who turns into a vigilante after a violent attack on his family. The film explores themes of justice and revenge, receiving mixed reviews for its screenplay and tone.
Remakes are a tricky business. For every successful reimagining, countless others miss the mark. So what happens when a classic vigilante tale gets a modern facelift with an action legend in the lead? That’s the question behind Death Wish (2018), a controversial update to the iconic 1974 film. In this version, Bruce Willis steps into the role of Dr. Paul Kersey, a mild-mannered surgeon pushed to his absolute breaking point.
So, does this new iteration earn its place in the pantheon of action thrillers? We’re diving deep into the Death Wish (2018) remake to see if it’s a worthy successor, a pale imitation, or something new altogether. We’ll dissect the updated plot, the cast, and how it stacks up against the original. Expect an honest look at what this movie gets right, what it gets wrong, and whether this modern vigilante story is worth your time.
But before we deliver a final verdict on whether Death Wish (2018) hits its mark, let’s set the stage. What exactly drives Paul Kersey’s transformation from an everyday family man to an urban avenger? Let’s explore the core narrative that fuels the Death Wish (2018) plot and find out.
What is the Plot of Death Wish (2018)?
A Modern Retelling of a Classic Vigilante Story
The Death Wish (2018) remake brings the iconic vigilante narrative into contemporary Chicago. Directed by Eli Roth, the film stars Bruce Willis as Dr. Paul Kersey [1], a successful trauma surgeon leading a comfortable life with his wife, Lucy (Elisabeth Shue), and their college-bound daughter, Jordan (Camila Morrone).
However, their peaceful existence shatters when a brutal home invasion leaves Lucy dead and Jordan in a coma. As the police investigation stalls, Paul finds himself consumed by grief and a burning desire for justice.
Feeling helpless and frustrated by the system’s failure, Paul undergoes a profound transformation. He purchases a handgun and begins targeting street criminals—not necessarily the men who attacked his family, but others committing violent acts. His actions quickly gain public attention, earning him the nickname “The Grim Reaper” from the local media.
While balancing his demanding medical career with his nocturnal vigilantism, Paul faces increasing pressure from all sides. Detectives Raines (Dean Norris) and Jackson (Kimberly Elise) are closing in on the mysterious killer, and his own family begins to suspect his altered behavior. The journey intensifies when Paul uncovers clues that lead him directly to the men responsible for his family’s tragedy, setting the stage for a dramatic and violent confrontation.
Ultimately, Death Wish (2018) explores themes of grief, vengeance, and the blurred lines of justice. It asks whether ordinary people should take the law into their own hands when the system fails.
Who Stars in the Death Wish Remake?
Bruce Willis as Dr. Paul Kersey
In the Death Wish (2018) remake, seasoned action star Bruce Willis steps into the iconic shoes of Dr. Paul Kersey, bringing his signature blend of stoicism and intensity to the role. Initially, Kersey is a mild-mannered Chicago surgeon who lives a comfortable family life.
However, when a brutal home invasion shatters his world, Kersey undergoes a drastic transformation. Willis expertly portrays this shift from a grieving husband and father to a vengeful vigilante. This journey is central to the story, and his performance anchors the movie’s emotional core as well as its action sequences.
The Supporting Cast
The Death Wish (2018) remake also features a solid ensemble cast that provides narrative depth, builds the world around Paul Kersey, and drives his character development. Key players include:
- Vincent D’Onofrio as Frank Kersey: Paul’s brother. He offers a contrasting view on justice and family.
- Elisabeth Shue as Lucy Kersey: Paul’s wife. Her tragic fate is the catalyst for Paul’s transformation.
- Camila Morrone as Jordan Kersey: Paul’s daughter. She is also a victim of the violent attack.
- Dean Norris as Detective Rains: One of the determined police officers investigating the home invasion. He grapples with the public’s fascination with the vigilante.
- Kimberly Elise as Detective Jackson: Partner to Detective Rains. She adds another layer to the police investigation.
Together, this talented cast helps ground the intense story and enrich the viewing experience with their performances [2]. Their roles are crucial for depicting Kersey’s isolated journey and the city’s reaction to his vigilante actions.
How Does the 2018 Remake Compare to the 1974 Original?
Key Differences in Story and Tone
The Death Wish franchise began with the controversial 1974 original, a film deeply rooted in the gritty, crime-ridden streets of New York City. In contrast, the 2018 remake modernizes the setting and tweaks the narrative for a new audience. While both films center on Dr. Paul Kersey’s transformation into a vigilante, their paths diverge significantly.
Here’s a quick look at the core distinctions:
| Feature | Death Wish (1974) | Death Wish (2018) |
|---|---|---|
| Protagonist | Paul Kersey, an architect portrayed by Charles Bronson. | Paul Kersey, a skilled surgeon portrayed by Bruce Willis. |
| Setting | A bleak, crime-ridden New York City. | A contemporary Chicago, reflecting modern urban challenges. |
| Inciting Event | Wife murdered, daughter sexually assaulted and left catatonic. The violence is portrayed as random and a symptom of societal decay [source: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0071402/]. | Wife murdered, daughter critically injured and left in a coma during a home invasion. The attack feels more personal and targeted. |
| Overall Tone | Gritty, bleak, and melancholic, with a strong focus on societal decay. | More action-oriented, featuring dark humor and a greater emphasis on media portrayal. |
| Vigilante’s Evolution | Paul embraces vigilantism as a desperate act against a failing system. | Paul actively seeks revenge, using modern resources to hunt down specific criminals. |
The original movie is a slow burn that explores Kersey’s psychological descent into vengeance. Portrayed by Charles Bronson, Kersey is a man pushed to his absolute limit. Initially hesitant to use violence, his background as an architect—a creator—makes his transformation into a destroyer all the more stark.
In contrast, the 2018 Death Wish with Bruce Willis is faster-paced, quickly moving into action territory. Here, Kersey is a surgeon—a healer—a choice that amplifies the irony of his new path as he applies his surgical precision to vigilantism. The resulting violence is often graphic, yet it’s sometimes framed with a darkly comedic edge, making the remake feel more like a conventional action thriller.
Updating the Vigilante for a New Generation
While the core concept of a citizen taking justice into their own hands remains the same, the 2018 remake updates this premise for the modern era. This is achieved through changes in technology, media, and the vigilante’s portrayal.
- Modern Technology: Unlike the original, where communication was limited, Willis’s Kersey uses smartphones and the internet to research crimes and track suspects, making his hunt far more efficient.
- Social Media & Public Perception: The 2018 Death Wish integrates social media, where Kersey quickly becomes a viral phenomenon dubbed “The Grim Reaper.” As news channels and online communities debate his actions, the public’s reaction—shaped by today’s instant media cycle—becomes a significant part of the narrative.
- Motivation Shift: While revenge is central to both films, the remake adds a nuanced layer. Kersey’s surgical background provides a unique insight into trauma and violence, and his knowledge of human anatomy makes his acts of vigilante justice disturbingly precise.
- Gun Culture Commentary: The film also engages with modern gun control debates. Kersey’s journey to acquire and learn how to use firearms resonates with contemporary discussions about self-defense and access to weapons [source: https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2017/06/22/americas-complex-relationship-with-guns/].
- Family Dynamics: The family dynamic also shifts due to a different outcome for Kersey’s daughter. In the original, she is left catatonic, but in the remake, she recovers after being in a coma. This change provides Kersey with a different emotional arc, as he fights not just for revenge but for her potential future.
Ultimately, the 2018 Death Wish remake aims for accessibility with a modern audience. By using contemporary tropes and technology, it maintains the provocative premise of the original while injecting new elements, creating a distinct viewing experience from its gritty 1974 predecessor.
What Was the Critical Reception? (IMDb & Rotten Tomatoes)
Audience Scores vs. Critic Reviews
The reception for Death Wish (2018) exemplifies the common divide between professional critics and general audiences.
Professional critics largely panned the film. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a “Tomatometer” score of just 18% [3]. Common criticisms centered on its problematic tone, handling of sensitive themes, and missed opportunities for deeper social commentary. Many also compared it unfavorably to the 1974 original, leaving them underwhelmed.
In contrast, audiences had a noticeably different take. Despite the critical panning, the film’s Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes is a much higher 59% [3]. Similarly, on IMDb, it holds a rating of 5.9 out of 10 based on over 80,000 user ratings [4].
What accounts for this disparity? Many viewers appreciated Bruce Willis’s portrayal of Dr. Paul Kersey and the straightforward action sequences. The film also delivered a cathartic vigilante fantasy that appealed to those looking for a simple thriller. This highlights a fundamental difference in evaluation: audience members often prioritize entertainment value, while critics frequently focus on artistic merit and social relevance, creating a clear gap in their final assessments.
Where Can You Watch Death Wish (2018)?
Streaming and Online Rental Options
Looking for Bruce Willis as Dr. Paul Kersey in Death Wish (2018)? The film is widely accessible on various digital platforms. While it may not always be included with a standard streaming subscription, it is consistently available to rent or purchase online.
Streaming availability can change, so the most reliable way to see this vigilante movie is on major online stores. These platforms offer both rental and purchase options, giving you flexibility in how you watch.
Here are the primary places where you can watch Death Wish (2018):
- Amazon Prime Video: A popular choice for both renting and buying digital movies.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Get your digital copy or rent for a limited period.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Easily accessible on Android devices and through web browsers.
- Vudu: Known for its vast library of films available for purchase or rental.
- YouTube Movies: Often features the same rental and purchase options as Google Play.
- Microsoft Store: Available for those on Windows devices and Xbox consoles.
- Redbox On Demand: Another convenient option for digital rentals.
These platforms make it easy to enjoy this action thriller from the comfort of your home [5]. Simply pick your preferred service, and you can dive right into Kersey’s quest for justice.
Our Final Verdict: Is Death Wish (2018) a Must-See?
Pros and Cons
Deciding if Death Wish (2018) is right for you means weighing its strengths against its weaknesses. While the remake offers a fresh take on a familiar story, it also struggles with its execution.
Pros of Death Wish (2018)
- Bruce Willis shines in the lead role, bringing a compelling intensity to the character of Paul Kersey.
- The film delivers solid action sequences that are both brutal and effective.
- With a fast and engaging pace, the story moves quickly to keep viewers hooked.
- The premise is successfully updated for modern times, offering a contemporary vigilante narrative.
- Fans of the genre will appreciate its satisfying revenge fantasy elements.
Cons of Death Wish (2018)
- The movie struggles with thematic depth, largely avoiding complex moral questions.
- Its violence can be gratuitous, which may not appeal to all viewers.
- The plot feels predictable at times, as it closely follows the classic vigilante formula.
- The film plays it safe with its story and doesn’t significantly innovate the genre.
- Character development is shallow, especially for supporting roles that lack depth.
Who Should Watch This Movie?
So, is Death Wish (2018) a must-see? The answer depends on your cinematic preferences, as this Bruce Willis action vehicle caters to a specific audience. See if you fall into any of these categories.
- Fans of Bruce Willis: If you enjoy his signature stoic, action-hero persona, this film delivers, as he carries the movie with his performance.
- Action Movie Enthusiasts: Viewers who love straightforward, gritty action will find plenty of intense sequences in this remake.
- Vigilante Film Aficionados: Those who appreciate classic revenge tales will find familiar ground, as the film follows established genre tropes.
- Viewers Seeking Pure Entertainment: This film is a great choice if you’re looking for a popcorn flick that doesn’t demand deep thought.
- Curious Remake Watchers: Anyone interested in how classic films are updated will appreciate the modern perspective Death Wish (2018) provides.
However, if you seek nuanced storytelling or complex characters, this version of Death Wish might disappoint, as it prioritizes action over depth. Ultimately, it’s a robust action film that successfully serves its target audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Death Wish 2018 on Netflix?
Death Wish (2018) is not currently available for subscription streaming on Netflix in most regions. Since streaming rights change often, it’s always best to check the latest availability.
However, you can usually rent or purchase the film on major Video On Demand (VOD) platforms. These services include Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, and Vudu [5]. Be sure to check your preferred platform for the most up-to-date options.
Who is in the cast of Death Wish 2018?
The Death Wish (2018) remake features a recognizable ensemble cast led by action star Bruce Willis.
Here are the key actors and their roles [2]:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Bruce Willis | Dr. Paul Kersey |
| Vincent D’Onofrio | Frank Kersey |
| Elisabeth Shue | Lucy Kersey |
| Camila Morrone | Jordan Kersey |
| Dean Norris | Detective Rains |
| Kimberly Elise | Detective Jackson |
| Mike Epps | Dr. Chris Salgado |
Bruce Willis stars as the central vigilante, Dr. Paul Kersey, with strong supporting performances from actors like Vincent D’Onofrio and Elisabeth Shue. The ensemble cast brings a mix of veteran talent to this intense thriller.
What is the Rotten Tomatoes score for Death Wish 2018?
Death Wish (2018) received sharply divided reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, highlighting a significant split between critics and audiences.
- Critics’ Score: The film holds a 18% aggregate score on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a largely negative critical reception [3].
- Audience Score: In contrast, the film earned a much more favorable audience score of 71%, suggesting that general moviegoers enjoyed it far more than critics [3].
This significant gap highlights a classic “critics vs. audience” divide. While most professional reviewers panned the Bruce Willis vigilante movie, a majority of viewers rated it positively. Your own enjoyment will likely depend on which group’s opinion you typically align with.
