The Punisher

Starring: Thomas Jane, John Travolta, Laura Harring, Samantha Mathis, Will Patton, Rebecca Romjn-Stamos, Roy Scheider
Directed by: Jonathan Hensleigh
Rating: R
Genre: Action, Crime
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: After a huge arrest, Frank Castle (Thomas Jane) retires from the FBI to spend time with his family. However, an influential mob boss (John Travolta) is upset because his son was killed in Castle's last arrest. He hunts down his family and brutally murders them all. Castle survives, and recovers to get his revenge.

Review:

Tim: Many people weren't too excited about this film. Sure, some of it is simply that the movie isn't too incredible. However, I believe many people watched this movie thinking it would be like Spider-Man or Superman. These are the people that never read The Punisher comic books. Frank Castle is just an ordinary guy with no super powers. This film will appeal to some who can't stand comic book movies like The Hulk because...come on... a guy who turns strong and mean when he gets mad??? The Punisher is not your typical comic book hero because he is just a regular guy.

Yes, this is a comic book movie, but unlike the rest of the superheroes, the Punisher is just a vigilante out for justice. To understand this fundamental point is to really understand this movie.

If you look at it in this context, The Punisher is a pretty good film. It is entertaining, and sets up the back story of this hero. Thomas Jane is the perfect casting choice. He is a character actor, and has no problem conveying the human side of Frank Castle. In addition, he also has the physical attributes to make the more violent side of him believable as well.

I was pretty surprised such a good cast was assembled for this film. John Travolta is pretty decent as the bad guy. It was nice to see Roy Scheider in a small role as Castle's father. Samantha Mathis, Will Patton, and Laura Harring are all pretty decent as well.

One of the weakest areas of the film involves Rebecca Romjin-Stamos and her two apartment dwelling friends. They are there to add a comedic element to the film, but mostly detract from the storyline. Romjin-Stamos is decent in her role, but this aspect of the film was handled in a pretty sloppy fashion.

Those of you who are worried about suspending your belief for this film, you do have good reason. There are many scenes that are just plain ridiculous (watch for the exploded cars making the Punisher logo). But, despite its many flaws, The Punisher is a good action film, and will keep you entertained, whether you like the comic book or not. I, for one, love comic book movies, and rate this one near the upper middle. It is worth seeing.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7


If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2, Batman, The Hulk, Daredevil, Deep Blue Sea, Dreamcatcher, Swordfish