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4

BenSOct 3, 2010

Law Abiding Citizen has a very strong beginning. I found myself caring for "Clyde" (Gerrard Butler) and wanting to see how he would change the American justice system. The scene where Clyde is in court and argues with the judge is a greatLaw Abiding Citizen has a very strong beginning. I found myself caring for "Clyde" (Gerrard Butler) and wanting to see how he would change the American justice system. The scene where Clyde is in court and argues with the judge is a great example of this - he uses the system itself to prove his argument, and shows that the law needs to be changed for true justice to be served.

Then the second half of the movie comes along, and Clyde's character shifts from an intelligent citizen to a complete psychopath. All that was clever about this film turns into a mindless bloody mess. By the end I was left wondering what had happened.… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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0

DanielS.May 6, 2010

Awesome movie...but the ending RUINS IT.

3 of 3 users found this helpful

0

DylanB.Feb 20, 2010

This would be one of the greatest movies in the world if only they didnt fuck up the ending the way they did. I almost threw my pc out the door when i saw it end. if you must watch the movie turn if off when there is only 20 minutes left. This would be one of the greatest movies in the world if only they didnt fuck up the ending the way they did. I almost threw my pc out the door when i saw it end. if you must watch the movie turn if off when there is only 20 minutes left. truly truly disappointing… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful

9

joesarahoNov 28, 2012

the people who have left these low reviews need to relax. this movie is very strong. first off gerard butler plays an awesome psycho. the whole plot and twist at the end is really awesome. I loved the way it was written and built up. thisthe people who have left these low reviews need to relax. this movie is very strong. first off gerard butler plays an awesome psycho. the whole plot and twist at the end is really awesome. I loved the way it was written and built up. this movie is a must see. everyone I have told to watch this movie has loved it. the acting is good and the twist is even better… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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8

Buckwheatjones1Aug 2, 2013

I think the critics really misunderstood this movie. Some compared it to the disgusting series "Saw" or "Torture Porn", they couldn't be more wrong, there is honestly not very much gore in the movie at all except for two quick scenes. GrantedI think the critics really misunderstood this movie. Some compared it to the disgusting series "Saw" or "Torture Porn", they couldn't be more wrong, there is honestly not very much gore in the movie at all except for two quick scenes. Granted some disgusting things are implied throughout the movie to add to its emotion and intensity and it does succeed.

Gerard Butler plays a fantastic role as a villain (possibly the only better bad guy I've seen is "The Joker" from "The Dark Knight".) Jaime Fox plays the good guy and his performance is descent.

Like others have stated the ending is one of those "really? come on now?" moments but that is when you have to say to yourself "it's just a movie."

If you're looking for a good crime thriller on a late Friday night, this is a perfect pick.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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1

PriscillaG.Oct 19, 2009

Just finished watching it. This is the kind of testosterone festival that makes troglodytes cry "YEAH!" Synopsis: Stock characters follow predictable plot devices and present the fantasy of limitless financial resources as "cunning intellect".

2 of 2 users found this helpful

5

DougG.Oct 23, 2009

Some shocking moments, but the movie is very flawed and the ending is horrible.

2 of 2 users found this helpful

6

OnAnarchyJan 20, 2013

After years of intending to watch this film finally did I get a chance to. After all the hype given to me by friends and family this film was a bit disappointing. I guess if you're a logical thinker, or an analyzer of movies you can seeAfter years of intending to watch this film finally did I get a chance to. After all the hype given to me by friends and family this film was a bit disappointing. I guess if you're a logical thinker, or an analyzer of movies you can see through the plot fairly easily. The ending was also rather troublesome, even though it had the potential to be great.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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7

A_NorthernerJun 4, 2012

Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx play the lead roles in Law Abiding Citizen, a brutal thriller in which a father and husband (Butler) makes an example of the legal system that wronged him.

Jamie Foxx plays the prosecutor who makes a plea dealGerard Butler and Jamie Foxx play the lead roles in Law Abiding Citizen, a brutal thriller in which a father and husband (Butler) makes an example of the legal system that wronged him.

Jamie Foxx plays the prosecutor who makes a plea deal with the man who killed Butler's wife and child. In exacting payback on an attorney for his previous decisions, the film is similar to Cape Fear but LAC actually shares more in common with Saw as Butler cleverly butchers his way through the cast.

LAC begins in an interesting manner and tries to argue the case for both flawed sides of the justice system. However, once Butler lands himself in jail and puts his plan into effect this balanced view disappears and is replaced by a violent killing spree. Butler's logic seems confused as he vehemently denies that his actions are revenge, but by killing everyone close to his case, I struggle to see what else they could be described as. Mass murder of the local justice system seems overkill for ensuring that lessons are learnt. The film will no doubt promote some discussion as to the point at which Butler's character's actions become unjustified and he transgresses from the film's hero to ruthless villain.

Butler outshines Foxx, initially as the troubled father and husband with a cause to fight before his descent into his role as psychopathic murderer.

Law Abiding Citizen had the potential to be a cat and mouse thriller with a conscience but is ultimately just a reasonably decent thriller, but one lacking the clever twists and intelligent ending of Saw.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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8

sammurphy66Jul 22, 2014

Whilst Law Abiding Citizen is spectacularly ridiculous, it is incredibly enjoyable and thrilling - and has you on the very edge of your seat until the end.

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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5

JohnGMar 1, 2010

This movie started out great with an interesting premise and the promise that justice was going to prevail and the bad guys were going to get their just desserts. However, as the movie progressed, the good guy most deserving of getting his This movie started out great with an interesting premise and the promise that justice was going to prevail and the bad guys were going to get their just desserts. However, as the movie progressed, the good guy most deserving of getting his revenge went way over the top, morphing from a greiving father and husband into the killer-clown from "Saw". At the same time the plot morphed from being mostly believable to totally preposterous. By the time of the movies climax, I had pretty much lost interest and felt cheated out of a movie that could have and should have been much better.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

4

ChadS.Oct 20, 2009

Among things most moviegoers don't want to see, a small girl being murdered during a home invasion would surely be close to topping the list, especially if the child makes bracelets that spell out "daddy" for her proud papa. Since "Law Among things most moviegoers don't want to see, a small girl being murdered during a home invasion would surely be close to topping the list, especially if the child makes bracelets that spell out "daddy" for her proud papa. Since "Law Abiding Citizen" turns out to be "Clyde: Portrait of a Serial Killer(or "Clean Shaven Death Wish), in which the daddy-turned-vigilante(played by Gerald Butler) starts killing, not NYC lowlifes like a Scottish Charles Bronson, but innocent people, ala Henry(Michael Rooker) in the 1989 John McNaughton film, brutality needs to match brutality, because the cause and effect of the carnage needs to be better proportioned. Our reaction to a decollated head, or a woman in car being blown up to smithereens, is more visceral, and far outweighs an abstract murder that took place beyond the fade-out, when it comes to impacting the audience, who needs to sympathize with Clyde's loss during his self-righteous killing spree. Not nearly enough time is spent on establishing Clyde as a husband and father. The filmmaker cuts to the chase, mere minutes into "Law Abiding Citizen", so, impassioned speech with his lawyer Nick(Jamie Foxx) about justice notwithstanding, the film largely pre-supposes Clyde's family man integrity as a given. In most cases, flashbacks often do nothing for a film, except oversell the protagonist's loss with affected sentimentality, in a scene that depicts happier times, where the grieving spouse gets all red-eyed after waking up from a reverie. This time around, it would help "Law Abiding Citizen", if Clyde displayed some sign of humanity, since the fallout from his vengeance is so distortedly pronounced, the film's message about a broken judicial system gets lost in the arterial spray.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

1

ChadC.Jun 17, 2010

This movie had potential. It kept me interested up until they revealed the how he managed to rig and terrorize people. It immediately dropped from possibly being a 7 or an 8 to a firm 1.

1 of 1 users found this helpful

1

ChrisVDDec 10, 2009

Totally unengaging and ridiculous flic. Manages to be repulsive AND boring at the same time. Quite unique actually, if you put it like that. Still, don't go and see, believe me. It's for your own good.

1 of 1 users found this helpful

0

JoJ.Oct 26, 2009

Can you say "ridiculously impossible" ? So unrealistic as to be cartoonish! Please! I love the critic who said "Saw with a conscience"!! How stupid do we moviegoers seem??! I'm insulted by this movie. The premise was realistic. They Can you say "ridiculously impossible" ? So unrealistic as to be cartoonish! Please! I love the critic who said "Saw with a conscience"!! How stupid do we moviegoers seem??! I'm insulted by this movie. The premise was realistic. They could have done great things with it. Too bad.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful

0

RichardW.Oct 16, 2009

Yuch. What were a fine group actors thinking? Paycheck, maybe?

1 of 1 users found this helpful

7

Lopez17Aug 11, 2010

Picture it you have a beautiful wife a loving and sweet daughter a great job that you love and every night you come home to your family knowing there will be a great dinner waiting for you so you can sit around the table and just share somePicture it you have a beautiful wife a loving and sweet daughter a great job that you love and every night you come home to your family knowing there will be a great dinner waiting for you so you can sit around the table and just share some quality time with the ones you love. It is essentially the American dream; the dream that all want and most get but what if one day that dream was taken away from you? What if some crooks from off the street broke into your home rob you and murdered the ones you love Now say that the police were able to find and capture the men who murdered your family there are about to be prosecuted for the heinous crime they have committed. The Executive A.D.A( Executive Assistant District Attorney) cuts a deal with one of the murders meaning one spends five years in jail and is free while the other is sent to death row. There is one person who shares this horrifying story and that person is Clyde Shelton (Gerard Butler). Two thugs looking to loot the place but instead one of them decided to take it a little further and rape and murder both his wife and daughter murdered his family. After one man is un-officially set free by a slick Executive A.D.A. and the other on death row Sheldon plots his revenge against all who have wronged him. The men who destroyed his life and the Justice system that let one of them get away. F. Gary Gray and Kurt Wimmer's "Law Abiding Citizen" is one of those films that came out last year slipped under the radar for me I had heard things about it albeit nothing good. Most critics and audiences members turned there backs on "Law Abiding Citizen" in favor of worse movies. However, compared to other movies that came out around the same time, as Law Abiding Citizenâ… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

ManselSep 30, 2019

Thought it was great! Don't know why everyone is complaining. Mr. Butler was awesome

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

AwsafDec 4, 2013

the movie start with a crack of intense but ends with unexpected disorder.So i didn't like this that much.if they ends with more explanation of the moment that would be better.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

bfoore90May 28, 2020

Has some obvious narrative faults, especially in the 2nd half but Gerard Butler is chillingly effective and sympathetic as Clyde Shelton in this crime thriller.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

ydnar4Feb 7, 2015

I had really high expectations for Law Abiding Citizen after watching the first scene. It really started out strong and made me excited for what would happen next, but then it gets too ahead of itself. The first 40 minutes of the movie areI had really high expectations for Law Abiding Citizen after watching the first scene. It really started out strong and made me excited for what would happen next, but then it gets too ahead of itself. The first 40 minutes of the movie are the best and then the last hour sort of drags on. I enjoyed Jamie Foxx's role but I don't understand why he is so involved in the story when he is a lawyer. He shouldn't have anything to do with most of the events in the movie. I understand he is there in order to make the movie more intense but it sacrifices realism. He should have been a cop. Then ending was sort of good but semi-predictable. I didn't think that this movie is really bad I just found a lot of things flawed with it. I'm sure many people would still enjoy the film. Just don't think too hard about it.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

ForTheReviewNov 4, 2014

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie was very interesting. Watching someone outsmart the authorities is always entertaining.

Gerard Butler played his character perfectly. He is a great anti-hero/mastermind actor. A similar movie to Law Abiding Citizen with a lead character being a dark mastermind is Inside Man. Gerard Butler stars in it, too!

However, i was very let down with the ending to this movie. Despite as sinister as it sounds, it would have been amazing to see Clyde's plan workout in the end. I feel it would have given a better remembrance to his name, and his motive. The tip that Nick received at the end was very disappointing; to have Clyde's plan spoiled by a tip was just sad.

The movie is very underrated. Great plot, exceptional acting, and disappointing ending. To be fair, though, i could see many people content with the way the movie ended. Probably in my top 20 list of movies. 6/10.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

raciocinioOct 21, 2015

A movie that don't have a great final losse points. this movie is amazing Butler ever is amazing without doubt deserves a 10 but the final is so stupid and idiot that only because of final losse 4 points.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

YorkManJan 19, 2016

Interesting thriller with a severe tinge of violence and an adult theme. Well directed and scored, it's unfortunately let down by a poorly written script and (apart from Gerard Butler) a cast on auto-pilot.

The premise is interestingInteresting thriller with a severe tinge of violence and an adult theme. Well directed and scored, it's unfortunately let down by a poorly written script and (apart from Gerard Butler) a cast on auto-pilot.

The premise is interesting enough, but it's how it is presented that fails. Too much that is obvious, is overtly obvious, and the little bits which are 'filled in' as the film continues just feel like the tired cliches of 'i know a guy' who then provides the necessary information for the good guys to finally come good.

Jamie Foxx's performance is woeful, he lacks the dynamic emotional range to convey the struggle of a man who is losing everything he holds dear who, despite his claims of intelligence and integrity, has no idea how these acts are being accomplished.
His almost deadpan delivery only makes the audience want the bad guy to succeed, and when he is ultimately foiled, it's not a win for the good guys... It's just feels like an absolute cop out, especially as there's no epilogue to show if anything about the 'system' has changed.

However, it's not a bad movie. The central performance of Butler redeems it a great deal and, if you like action and violence mixed in with a fairly intelligent plot, you won't be disappointed.
But, if you're looking for someone that possesses the dialogue and performances to match, then one to avoid.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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6

TinoTrivinoDec 25, 2015

Let us be honest, this is just another "vigilanti" movie, this kind of movies which encourage not to believe in the law system and like in the wild western take action of your own..
Well the movie was good produced, filmed and edited. VeryLet us be honest, this is just another "vigilanti" movie, this kind of movies which encourage not to believe in the law system and like in the wild western take action of your own..
Well the movie was good produced, filmed and edited. Very good acting thats why i give it a 6, specially the soundtrack.
But, the story is so full of **** fill of **** because it show us a simple version of the evil, and another simple version of a good and lonely person which you can only see in Hollywood.
Perhaps thats why people copy European Movies because they are more realistic and alive.
Again, the movie wasnt bad, but its for hillbillies who think the world is divided between evil and good, black and white, good and wrong, etc...
anyway... try it, now its in dvd, and if you are poor, try p2p, its not piracy unless you sell it.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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7

mosesechsAug 24, 2017

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Clyde should have won.

He was way smarter than everybody else.

My first critical loss of interest occurs,
when Clyde hears violent banging on the front door of his house.

His wife, in a quite normal tone, yells out to Clyde to get the door.

Clyde comes down from his office or wherever,
and nonchalantly opens the door to a bat to his face;
a home invasion.

I learn later in the movie, that Clyde is a world class spy,
and sophisticated Detective Gadget sort of personality.

A world class spy would have had better skills to deal with an intruder,
and would have quickly disarmed the fat crook wielding that bat.

Later on in the trial, we find out that the prosecutor, Nick,
makes a deal with the killer and sets him free,
only to most assuredly, commit more crimes and madness.

Nick the prosecutor, even shakes the killer's hand,
with Clyde, who had lost his wife and daughter to the killer
in the earlier home invasion, was in the distance observing
all of this injustice, and fuming.

Clyde puts his super spy skills to work,
and awaits his opportunity to avenge his family's death,
because the Justice system, seemed to care more for the criminal,
than for the ordinary innocent citizen.

Clyde catches, tortures and kills his family's murderer,
and when brought into the courtroom,
baffles the court, and judge,
with his superior sense of reasoning,
and knowledge of the court system.

Anyways,
Without spoiling this movie any further,
Clyde builds an elaborate plan to foil law enforcement,
and in the end is caught.

He should not have been caught.

He would have been way smarter,
and not return to the scene of the crimes,
and would have had more sensors and technology
to alert him of any intrusion into his elaborate setup.
Other than that, "Law Abiding Citizen" is a great movie to watch. Even though he tried too hard at times, Jamie Foxx as Nick played a great role.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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3

sLmOct 14, 2012

Meeeeeeeh... It started very, very good, at first revenge was justified, but then it just became into a non-sense murdering. At the end of the film, all I wanted was the "bad" guy to win at least, not the moron lawyer, but neither thatMeeeeeeeh... It started very, very good, at first revenge was justified, but then it just became into a non-sense murdering. At the end of the film, all I wanted was the "bad" guy to win at least, not the moron lawyer, but neither that happened. It was totally anticlimactic... Seriously, if you want a good version for this movie, watch "V for Vendetta" and stay away from this.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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7

grandpajoe6191Sep 25, 2011

The movie ends with a pretty cliche on top, but its the first 30 minutes of "Law Abiding Citizen" with the tension between Butler and Foxx that will entertain you.

6 of 9 users found this helpful63

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2

spadenxDec 19, 2011

Its so generic, straight forward, and predictable that it ruins the movie. Jamie Foxx is a terrible lead as well, The rest of the cast was ok. Gerald Butler is good though and the only reason to watch the film. The action was ok as well butIts so generic, straight forward, and predictable that it ruins the movie. Jamie Foxx is a terrible lead as well, The rest of the cast was ok. Gerald Butler is good though and the only reason to watch the film. The action was ok as well but the entire script was just terrible. A lot of ruined potential here.… Expand

6 of 9 users found this helpful63

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0

TimHMar 1, 2010

A Horible Movie that shys away at the good parts, and during its "revelations" in the plot was found to be HILARIOUS. Not what they were going for I think. I wasted 2 hours of my life watching this crap and I hope there aren't many A Horible Movie that shys away at the good parts, and during its "revelations" in the plot was found to be HILARIOUS. Not what they were going for I think. I wasted 2 hours of my life watching this crap and I hope there aren't many others as unfortunate as me.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful

9

TheSHONov 25, 2010

Awesome movie! I do personally think the system sucks! Too many stupid rules and regulations and loop holes! Not too many people might want to admit it but I bet there are a ton of people who would love to have the brains and know how justAwesome movie! I do personally think the system sucks! Too many stupid rules and regulations and loop holes! Not too many people might want to admit it but I bet there are a ton of people who would love to have the brains and know how just like the Anti-Hero in this movie. I can tell you that if anything ever happened to my family and the maximum wasn't done against the criminals, I have no doubt that revenge will be taken into my own hands! It was really weird but I don't remember a time where I was rooting for a character of Gerard Butler's stature. Yes, there are a couple of minor flaws but overall a really well done movie.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

clmtigers15Dec 17, 2010

I just finished watching this movie and I don't understand what people are complaining about saying this movie is not that good. It is a very clever movie that has a very clear and loud message "Everyone has to take responsibility for theirI just finished watching this movie and I don't understand what people are complaining about saying this movie is not that good. It is a very clever movie that has a very clear and loud message "Everyone has to take responsibility for their actions." Nick played by Jamie Foxx was too concerned about his status and was focused on achieving a high conviction rate so cut deals for criminals that should be locked up for a very long time. Clyde was an innocent guy who lost his family and I can understand some people saying the good guy Clyde went way over the top to become the bad guy toward the end of the movie but I can understand why he went over the top because if you remember, Nick told Clyde at the beginning of the movie that he already finished the deal without even asking or considering Clyde's opinion. The guy lost his family and had his feet cut out from beneath him when Nick finished a deal. This is one of the best movies I've seen and it's very clever and has an important message. I'm from a different country, I wasn't born here in the United States, and I have read and witnessed about cases like these occuring often where justice is not correctly served and criminals escape day after day in my home country so maybe that's why I appreciate this movie more than others because to me, this movie is a partially a true story in some sense.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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9

GavinJun 18, 2011

CRITICS ARE STUPID!!! This movie was great! It shows how ridiculous our justice system is. Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler do a great job, I thought Colm Meaney could have done a better job with his role but other then that it was an intenseCRITICS ARE STUPID!!! This movie was great! It shows how ridiculous our justice system is. Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler do a great job, I thought Colm Meaney could have done a better job with his role but other then that it was an intense movie that was well made.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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4

hoops2448Jan 6, 2012

Law Abiding Citizen plays with some interesting themes and issues but it doesn't seem to have a clue what it wants to say. Is the justice system corrupt? Is serious reform needed? Are Clyde's (Gerard Butler) actions justified? The film neverLaw Abiding Citizen plays with some interesting themes and issues but it doesn't seem to have a clue what it wants to say. Is the justice system corrupt? Is serious reform needed? Are Clyde's (Gerard Butler) actions justified? The film never gets close to answering these questions as it fumbles from act to act. It's a shame really because the performances aren't bad, Butler plays light and dark well with Jamie Foxx actually being a perfect foil for him as the straight laced realist. They play well off each other and dialogue wise, the script is pretty good so some scenes are thoroughly entertaining at least aesthetically. The problem is that the final product is so remarkably empty you can't look back on the things you like and leave the viewing with a positive reaction. It's a film trying to make some kind of a point but all you really get is a dark, gritty thriller that is void of substance. It doesn't help that the last 40 minutes move the film from gritty, character drama to cliche filled farce with a final twist so remarkably stupid it just ruins it further.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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3

Jedi_JettsonJul 15, 2012

Clyde (Gerard Butler) had a reason to kill the people who killed his family: REVENGE but why was he killing Police and FBI agents just to make Nick Rice (Jamie Foxx) mad? They didn't do much to Clyde and already got his revenge which wasClyde (Gerard Butler) had a reason to kill the people who killed his family: REVENGE but why was he killing Police and FBI agents just to make Nick Rice (Jamie Foxx) mad? They didn't do much to Clyde and already got his revenge which was enough. And you know what would of been a better ending? Clyde could of committed suicide and admitted his reason.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

Tss5078Feb 24, 2013

Law Abiding Citizen is the ultimate tale of revenge. After his family is killed in a brutal home invasion, Clyde Shelton waits for the legal system to do its job, unfortunately for them, they fail him, and that's when he takes matters intoLaw Abiding Citizen is the ultimate tale of revenge. After his family is killed in a brutal home invasion, Clyde Shelton waits for the legal system to do its job, unfortunately for them, they fail him, and that's when he takes matters into his own hands. This was great, such a unique tale that really blurs the line. It's very hard to decide who's the good guy and who's the bad guy in this one. That's something that makes this film unique. Gerard Butler is amazing as Shelton. Having seen several of Butler's movies previously, I thought he was just your ordinary, so-so, action star until I saw this. He has chops in this movie and can really deliver that one line, similar to Bruce Willis in Die Hard. This movie is fast moving, action packed, and isn't the same old story. Definitely go see this one!… Expand

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2

GreatbealloFeb 19, 2012

This movie disgusts me, if I am being honest. The violence was without meaning, and it seemed spliced in for the sake of satisfying a bloodthirsty crowd. It has its enjoyable moments, and for that I give it a 2, but it is recycled garbage.

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10

JJHoodDec 30, 2013

nice. and unexpected movie. Only the finish is expect-able and a bit disappointing.
But in total a very nice movie, that does not follow the convention of Hollywood

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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2

RustyShackleNov 2, 2011

I had to check to make sure it was the same movie by the end, because it wasn't nothing like the first half hour.
What a complete disaster for a movie that started so strong, could have easily been an 8.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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2

ynot420Sep 12, 2010

This movie is what I imagine getting a colonoscopy is like. The acting was what you would expect from a middle school play, not a multi million dollar feature film. I would not recommend this to anyone.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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3

txrangersfan72Nov 24, 2010

A poor man's "Seven." Gerard Butler is so unappealing on screen, but combined with the personality-less Jamie Foxx, it doesn't matter how on-edge some of the scenes are. It still comes across like a B movie.

3 of 6 users found this helpful33

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5

asylumspadezNov 24, 2011

What started off so interesting ends so poorly. The acting is fine (I didnt really like Jamie Fox as the lead, Thought he was a poor fit) and the action was good. The story is so generic though that it just takes away from the overall value.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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3

BenBOct 20, 2009

By all accounts this is something that started out as a great idea in someones head which ended up being an absolute failure by the time someone tried to turn it into a 90 minute feature film. The decides to rather than create a character By all accounts this is something that started out as a great idea in someones head which ended up being an absolute failure by the time someone tried to turn it into a 90 minute feature film. The decides to rather than create a character that's extraordinary yet still believable, to create a character that defies all belief and as such, create a series of scenarios that leaves the audience frustrated with being force fed hole filled plots, rather than leaving them impressed at the main characters ingenuity. Jamie Foxx also delivers an extremely dry performance. With no characters to love or to hate, and no plot to entertain, you will just want this movie to end so you can go home and watch paint dry.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

1

DQSMar 11, 2010

Horrible, horrible, horrible. Crap piece of hack work made for the money. The message of this film is that in the end Law is worthless. Do you believe that? Do the people who made this crap believe it? No, it's simply a cool way to show Horrible, horrible, horrible. Crap piece of hack work made for the money. The message of this film is that in the end Law is worthless. Do you believe that? Do the people who made this crap believe it? No, it's simply a cool way to show off special effects. Sad.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful

5

WangD.Apr 11, 2010

the ideas are appealing sort of a "dark night" destination but the deliverance is very flawed

1 of 2 users found this helpful

4

TBoneOct 17, 2009

Great movie, terrible ending.

1 of 2 users found this helpful

7

MartyJOct 19, 2010

This film is a good all-rounder and kept me intrigued until the end, it always amazes me how critics can score things so badly and one describing it as saw with a conscience could do with getting another job.

The Ending is a let down I thinkThis film is a good all-rounder and kept me intrigued until the end, it always amazes me how critics can score things so badly and one describing it as saw with a conscience could do with getting another job.

The Ending is a let down I think its a pretty atypical Hollywood ending which they had to do otherwise it would be portraying the wrong message.

That said the whole film is very interesting and enjoyable all the way through with solid acting from all involved, Overall an enjoyable film experience and worth a watch… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

All this user's reviews

3

TetsuoJun 24, 2013

This is what happens when the dig through John Grisham's garbage. It has a lot of inaccuracies with the federal law of the state of Philadelphia. Both Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler are miscast and don't provide energy in their roles. TheirThis is what happens when the dig through John Grisham's garbage. It has a lot of inaccuracies with the federal law of the state of Philadelphia. Both Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler are miscast and don't provide energy in their roles. Their characters are poorly developed and the other characters don't have much focus, and on some occasions stupid And the ending is a big 180 to a decent resolution.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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4

HalfwelshmanJun 15, 2012

Law Abiding Citizen has decent performances from its two leads Jamie Foxx, playing a dedicated prosecution lawyer and Gerard Butler as a man cheated by flawed American justice system who takes the law into his own hands as a murderousLaw Abiding Citizen has decent performances from its two leads Jamie Foxx, playing a dedicated prosecution lawyer and Gerard Butler as a man cheated by flawed American justice system who takes the law into his own hands as a murderous vigilante. It's technically competent throughout and with the addition of a serviceable script the film should be an intelligent and memorable thriller providing an insightful critique on law and morality. Somehow though, Law Abiding CItizen never rises above mediocrity, and is a largely forgettable affair. After an exciting initial setup, the narrative plods and becomes utterly ridiculous towards the final act, which is so over-the-top it wouldn't look out of place in a 70s disaster movie. Characterisation is also inconsistent, with Foxx's heavily moralistic and by-the-book lawyer conveniently able to bypass his long-held convictions when it suits the story. In addition, though he makes a decent enough anti-hero throughout, Butler does occasionally slip back into his natural Scottish dialect during the more intense and demanding scenes. Law Abiding Citizen only just manages to stay afloat thanks to director F. Gary Gray's craftsmenship and the talent of the lead performers. It falls utterly flat in other areas, however, because of misjudgements of tone, uneven pacing and a critical lack of commitment to the big ideas behind the film. The film is passable, but nothing more.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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6

moviegrabbagJun 12, 2011

This movie was actually kind of fun. Is it a cliche oh heck yeah. But it does have some pretty inventive ways of killing off some people and some of the ways the villain is able to do the things that he does. The acting is also very solidThis movie was actually kind of fun. Is it a cliche oh heck yeah. But it does have some pretty inventive ways of killing off some people and some of the ways the villain is able to do the things that he does. The acting is also very solid with the exception of a certain mayor. Overall this is worth a watch.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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4

imthenoobFeb 2, 2013

The potential was there and the movie definently had it's moment but overall, It not only failed to draw you in but the poor dialogue and acting by the cast (aside from Butler who was the only good one imo) sort of ruined it imo.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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4

ECantonaDec 23, 2013

Movie started out very disturbingly. What a strong start for a thriller? Well, it was, yeah. Though, at some point it started to become a bad movie. The way it started to focus on just violence and nothing else was just nothing i was hopingMovie started out very disturbingly. What a strong start for a thriller? Well, it was, yeah. Though, at some point it started to become a bad movie. The way it started to focus on just violence and nothing else was just nothing i was hoping from the story. This movie could have been done better.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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10

ThomasFAug 16, 2010

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Way underrated, deserves at least a 70 from critics, but they know nothing, listen to the user reviews.

Anyways it's full of action, and makes somebody really think. A++ movie would watch again.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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0

podaddyJan 26, 2012

bad writing, bad acting, bad everything. Gerard Butler should never try to pull off another American accent again...awful, just awful. Ridiculos premise, but lots of stuff blows up so it likely kept American audiences happy. When foreignersbad writing, bad acting, bad everything. Gerard Butler should never try to pull off another American accent again...awful, just awful. Ridiculos premise, but lots of stuff blows up so it likely kept American audiences happy. When foreigners put down Americans for their cinematic stupidity, this movie is Exhibit A.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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8

WasabiMar 5, 2010

This movie give you A perspective of what happen when a man lost his family and the lawmen trying to balance order. Forget what people say about this movie, watch it and have your own perspective. I enjoy it. Another way to show you how This movie give you A perspective of what happen when a man lost his family and the lawmen trying to balance order. Forget what people say about this movie, watch it and have your own perspective. I enjoy it. Another way to show you how America justice system work.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful

7

audreygFeb 16, 2010

James H. is wrong if your wife and daughter were beaten to death you're saying you would only be mad for 1 to 2 years at the most. Your wrong

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

chynadollMar 2, 2010

I don't listen to movie critics because most of the time the movies they think are good actually suck and vice-versa. Yhis movie was phenomenal. Although parts of the plot may seem implausible, there is such a powerful message being I don't listen to movie critics because most of the time the movies they think are good actually suck and vice-versa. Yhis movie was phenomenal. Although parts of the plot may seem implausible, there is such a powerful message being conveyed. Bravo...I. love it!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

ElPupMar 24, 2010

A great revenge flick... Though I kinda wish it ended differently though. Gerard Butler gives a really good performance (which was a supprise to me), the kills are clever, however it does start to become improbable towards the end... But a A great revenge flick... Though I kinda wish it ended differently though. Gerard Butler gives a really good performance (which was a supprise to me), the kills are clever, however it does start to become improbable towards the end... But a lack of complete realism never killed a move for me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

AllanJMar 29, 2010

This movie was awesome!!! Based on true revenge, what happens when you pick the wrong person's life to ruin. I can't believe critics booed this movie it's one of the best this year!!!! Trust me, watch this movie if you like action.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

joeb.Apr 3, 2010

Gripping. A movie all law students should watch before becoming lawyers, even if it is unrealistic. This is what I would do to someone if they murdered my family.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

J.Oct 16, 2009

I agree with Lorenzo. The way Metacritic interprets scores (especially when a score is not given) is imperfect at best and arbitrary at worst. I would suggest reading the reviews instead of judging based on scores alone. As for the movie, I agree with Lorenzo. The way Metacritic interprets scores (especially when a score is not given) is imperfect at best and arbitrary at worst. I would suggest reading the reviews instead of judging based on scores alone. As for the movie, it's a fun revenge flick. It's not supposed to have deep insights into our society. Instead, it is a revenge story based around something that can be seen as a flaw in our justice system. You aren't supposed to be blown away by it's depth anymore than you are supposed to look for the meaning of life in the Deathwish movies. Anyone who doesn't get that should learn to lighten up before watching movies.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

BenSOct 16, 2009

Please do not listen to the critics! Law Abiding Citizen is a good movie with great actors and a powerful message. Just because critics are too dense to see it, doesn't mean this movie does not make a powerful comment on the injustices Please do not listen to the critics! Law Abiding Citizen is a good movie with great actors and a powerful message. Just because critics are too dense to see it, doesn't mean this movie does not make a powerful comment on the injustices that occur in our "justice system", while also making a comment on personal motivations. A must see!… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

LorenzoL.Oct 16, 2009

This movie is just as good as the self-righteous trailers led you to believe it would be. I honestly don't understand why it's rated so low by these credits, actually I don't understand how Metacritic calculates such a low This movie is just as good as the self-righteous trailers led you to believe it would be. I honestly don't understand why it's rated so low by these credits, actually I don't understand how Metacritic calculates such a low score from reviews that don't have number values. In any case the acting is superb, the plot is great and there are even some *unexpected* plot twists. Take a chance on watching this, you'll love it.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful

2

kgm.Oct 26, 2009

The first 10-15 minutes are interesting and engaging but unlike

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

SaniquaSApr 10, 2010

this movie was extremely great! I think critics dont like it because it proves a point on our so called justice system!

0 of 1 users found this helpful

10

LHarrisApr 11, 2010

I liked this movie. I think it was awesome and I'm a 50 yr old woman. It doesn't matter if it may seem somewhat unrealistic; it's just a movie for pete's sake.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

8

juliankleissApr 10, 2011

Law Abiding Citizen points out an imperfect justice system. In seemingly obvious cases of murder a judge might not care enough about justice and only obeys the law so as a killer can go free if there is a lack of physical evidence; lawyersLaw Abiding Citizen points out an imperfect justice system. In seemingly obvious cases of murder a judge might not care enough about justice and only obeys the law so as a killer can go free if there is a lack of physical evidence; lawyers might make deals with criminals just to put an easy end to a case; and if it gets really bad for those who work for this system they might try to find a way of how to take away the constitutional given civil rights of the person they feel threatened by. A very smart movie that gives you some food for thought about how law and justice might not always be the same. The first half of the movie is quite brutal and likely hard to watch for many viewers. The second half offers some surprise. Definitely worth watching.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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5

TDKinDallasNov 7, 2009

I really enjoyed this movie, until the end. The ending was horrible. I forgave some of the non-story telling in the beginning with the obligatory plot fill-ins during the movie, but come on. **SPOILER ALERT** This isn't a movie ruining I really enjoyed this movie, until the end. The ending was horrible. I forgave some of the non-story telling in the beginning with the obligatory plot fill-ins during the movie, but come on. **SPOILER ALERT** This isn't a movie ruining spoiler, but how does he not notice that someone has broken into his lair? There is a lot more to complain about and I don't want to ruin anymore, but I say it again, come on!… Expand