Death Wish (2018) is a thrilling action-packed film directed by Eli Roth and starring Bruce Willis. This movie is a modern remake of the 1974 classic film based on the novel of the same name by Brian Garfield.
It tells the story of a man who becomes a vigilante after his wife and daughter are brutally attacked during a home invasion. As he sets out on a path of vengeance, he discovers a new purpose in life.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the book, movie, and much more to provide you with a complete understanding of Death Wish (2018). So, let’s dive in!
Book Summary: Understanding the foundation of Death Wish
The novel Death Wish, written by Brian Garfield in 1972, is the foundation of the story that has captivated audiences for decades. The book follows the transformation of Paul Benjamin, a successful New York City accountant, whose life is shattered when his wife and daughter are victims of a brutal attack in their home.
As he struggles to come to terms with his loss, Paul gradually evolves into a vigilante, taking justice into his own hands and targeting criminals who prey on the innocent. The novel explores themes such as grief, revenge, and the line between right and wrong, offering a thought-provoking portrayal of a man pushed to his limits.
Movie Summary: How the story unfolds on the big screen
In the 2018 adaptation of Death Wish, the protagonist’s name is changed to Paul Kersey, played by Bruce Willis.
Paul is a successful surgeon in Chicago whose life is turned upside down when his wife and daughter are attacked in their home. His wife is killed, and his daughter is left in a coma.
Frustrated with the lack of progress in the police investigation, Paul decides to take matters into his own hands. He becomes a vigilante, hunting down criminals and making the streets safer for the citizens of Chicago.
As his actions become more daring, he gains public support and notoriety, turning him into a polarizing figure.
Parent Guide: What parents should know about Death Wish
Parents should be aware that Death Wish (2018) is rated R for strong bloody violence and language throughout.
The film contains several intense action sequences, including shootouts, stabbings, and scenes of torture. The violence is graphic and may be disturbing for some viewers.
There is also a significant amount of strong language, including frequent use of the f-word and other profanities.
The film’s themes of vigilantism and revenge may prompt discussions about the consequences of taking the law into one’s own hands and the moral implications of such actions.
When and Where: The setting of Death Wish
Death Wish (2018) is set in contemporary Chicago, Illinois. The city serves as a backdrop for the film’s story, showcasing both its beauty and its darker, crime-ridden side.
The story takes place over several weeks as Paul Kersey transforms from a mild-mannered surgeon into a ruthless vigilante.
The film explores various locations throughout the city, including hospitals, police stations, and a variety of urban and residential areas. The setting plays a significant role in the film, as the city’s crime rate and the public’s reaction to Paul’s actions drive the plot forward.
Film Locations: Exploring the real-life places of Death Wish
While Death Wish is set in Chicago, the majority of the film was shot in Montreal, Canada. Several locations in Montreal were used to depict various Chicago neighborhoods and landmarks.
These locations include:
- The exterior of Paul’s home, found in the affluent Montreal suburb of Westmount.
- The hospital where Paul works, filmed at the Montreal General Hospital.
- The city streets and alleys where many of the film’s action sequences take place, located in Montreal’s downtown area and Old Montreal.
A few scenes were filmed on location in Chicago, such as the establishing shots of the city’s skyline and the recognizable “L” train system.
Who’s Who: A guide to the characters of Death Wish
In Death Wish (2018), we are introduced to a variety of characters that play crucial roles in the story.
Some of the most important characters include:
- Paul Kersey (Bruce Willis): The film’s protagonist, a successful surgeon who becomes a vigilante after his family is attacked.
- Lucy Kersey (Elisabeth Shue): Paul’s wife, who is tragically killed in the home invasion.
- Jordan Kersey (Camila Morrone): Paul and Lucy’s daughter, who is left in a coma after the attack.
- Frank Kersey (Vincent D’Onofrio): Paul’s brother, who provides emotional support throughout the film.
- Detective Kevin Raines (Dean Norris): The lead detective on the case, tasked with finding the criminals responsible for the attack on Paul’s family and investigating the vigilante killings.
Memorable Quotes from Death Wish
Death Wish (2018) is filled with memorable lines and quotes that have resonated with audiences.
Some of the most notable quotes include:
- “I’m not a cop. I’m a doctor. But right now, I’m all you got.” – Paul Kersey
- “You’re not gonna kill me. No. Jackals kill. No, you’re gonna sit there and watch me die, just like I watched your wife and daughter die.” – Knox (Beau Knapp)
- “People rely on the police to keep them safe. That’s the problem. The police only arrive after the crime has taken place. That’s like trapping the fox as he’s comin’ out of the hen house. If a man really wants to protect what’s his, he has to do it for himself.” – Miguel (Miguel Gomez)
Ludwig Gí¶ransson’s Soundtrack: A powerful musical journey
The soundtrack for Death Wish (2018) was composed by Ludwig Gí¶ransson, a talented composer known for his work on films such as Black Panther and the Creed series.
Gí¶ransson’s score for Death Wish is both powerful and emotional, capturing the film’s themes of revenge, loss, and justice.
The music effectively underscores the tension and action-packed moments while also providing quieter, more introspective cues for the film’s dramatic scenes. The soundtrack is a significant component of the film’s overall impact and contributes to the immersive experience for the viewer.
Curiosities and Trivia about Death Wish
Here are some interesting facts and trivia about Death Wish (2018):
- The film is the sixth installment in the Death Wish series and the first remake of the original 1974 film.
- The director, Eli Roth, makes a cameo appearance in the film as a radio talk show host.
- The film’s release date was postponed several times due to various reasons, including the mass shooting in Las Vegas in 2017.
- Death Wish (2018) received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its action sequences and performances, while others criticized the film’s portrayal of vigilantism and its handling of sensitive topics.
Cosplay Tips for dressing like Death Wish characters
If you’re a fan of Death Wish (2018) and want to dress up like the characters for cosplay events or conventions, here are some tips to help you create a convincing look:
- Paul Kersey: Choose a casual outfit, such as a dark jacket, jeans, and a plain T-shirt. Add a surgical mask and latex gloves to represent Paul’s occupation as a surgeon. For the vigilante look, don a hoodie, a baseball cap, and sunglasses. Don’t forget to accessorize with a prop gun and holster.
- Detective Kevin Raines: Opt for a classic detective look with a suit, tie, and dress shoes. Add a police badge and a prop gun to complete the ensemble.
- Jordan Kersey: Wear a casual teenage outfit, such as a denim jacket, a T-shirt, and jeans. To recreate Jordan’s post-attack look, apply makeup to mimic bruises and injuries, and use a wheelchair as a prop.
Remember to be mindful of prop weapon rules and regulations at conventions and public events.
Brian Garfield: The author behind Death Wish
Brian Garfield (1939-2018) was an American author and screenwriter best known for his novel Death Wish. Born in New York City, Garfield published more than 70 books throughout his career, spanning various genres such as crime, mystery, and westerns.
In addition to Death Wish, Garfield wrote several other novels that were adapted into films, including Hopscotch (1975) and The Stepfather (1981).
He also wrote screenplays for several films and TV shows. Garfield’s work has been praised for its strong character development, suspenseful storytelling, and exploration of moral complexities.
The Ending Explained: Analyzing the conclusion of Death Wish
Spoiler alert
At the end of Death Wish (2018), Paul Kersey confronts the main antagonist, Knox, in a thrilling showdown.
Knox reveals that he was responsible for the attack on Paul’s family and taunts him about their deaths. However, Paul ultimately gets the upper hand and kills Knox in a gruesome manner.
The film concludes with Paul’s daughter waking up from her coma, and the family begins the process of healing and moving forward.
The final scene shows Paul, now a public figure and a symbol of vigilante justice, confronting a potential criminal on the streets, suggesting that his days as a vigilante are far from over.
Remakes, Sequels, and Spin-offs: The legacy of Death Wish
The original Death Wish (1974), starring Charles Bronson, was a major success and spawned four sequels, released between 1982 and 1994.
The 2018 remake is a modern reimagining of the original film, introducing the story to a new generation of viewers.
While there are no official plans for a sequel to the 2018 film, the ending leaves the door open for potential future installments. The Death Wish series and its themes of vigilantism, revenge, and justice continue to influence other films and media, demonstrating the lasting impact of the story.
Other Media by Eli Roth: Exploring the director’s filmography
Eli Roth is an American filmmaker, actor, and producer known for his work in the horror genre.
Some of his most notable films include:
- Cabin Fever (2002): Roth’s directorial debut, a horror film about a group of friends who become infected with a flesh-eating virus while vacationing in a remote cabin.
- Hostel (2005): A horror film about a group of backpackers who fall prey to a sadistic torture ring while traveling in Europe.
- The Green Inferno (2013): A horror film about a group of activists who are captured by a cannibalistic tribe in the Amazon rainforest.
Roth’s films often feature graphic violence, dark humor, and social commentary, making him a distinctive and influential figure in modern horror cinema.
Similar Media to Death Wish: What to watch or read next
If you enjoyed Death Wish (2018) and are looking for similar films or books to explore, here are some suggestions:
- Films:The Equalizer (2014) and its sequel, starring Denzel Washington as a former special forces operative who becomes a vigilante. John Wick (2014) and its sequels, featuring Keanu Reeves as a retired hitman seeking vengeance for the murder of his dog. The Brave One (2007), starring Jodie Foster as a woman who becomes a vigilante after a brutal attack leaves her fiancé dead.
- Books: The Executioner series by Don Pendleton, following a Vietnam War veteran who wages a one-man war against organized crime. The Jack Reacher series by Lee Child, featuring a former military police officer who travels the United States, solving crimes and helping those in need. The Repairman Jack series by F. Paul Wilson, about a man who fixes problems for people while battling supernatural threats.
Other Works by Brian Garfield: Delving into the author’s literary world
In addition to Death Wish, Brian Garfield authored numerous other novels that showcase his talent for storytelling and his ability to explore complex themes.
Some of his other notable works include:
- The Thousand-Mile War: World War II in Alaska and the Aleutians (1969): A non-fiction account of the Aleutian Islands Campaign during World War II.
- Hopscotch (1975): A comedic thriller about a CIA operative who decides to write a tell-all memoir, putting his life in danger.
- The Paladin (1979): A historical thriller set during World War II, focusing on a British intelligence officer who works to sabotage the Nazi war effort.
Book Club Questions: Engaging discussions for Death Wish fans
If you’re hosting a book club or discussion group about Death Wish, here are some questions to help spark conversation:
- How do the novel and the 2018 film adaptation differ in their portrayal of the main character and his motivations?
- What are the moral implications of Paul’s actions as a vigilante? Do you believe his actions are justified?
- How does the setting of Chicago in the 2018 film contribute to the story’s themes and atmosphere?
- How do the supporting characters, such as Paul’s brother and Detective Raines, influence Paul’s journey throughout the story?
- What are the similarities and differences between the 2018 film and other vigilante-themed films, such as The Equalizer or John Wick?
Video Games inspired by Death Wish
While there are no official video games based on Death Wish, fans of the film may enjoy these action-packed titles that feature vigilante themes and intense gameplay:
- Max Payne series: A third-person shooter video game series about a former NYPD officer who becomes a vigilante after his family is murdered.
- Watch Dogs series: An open-world action-adventure game where players control a hacker and vigilante who uses his skills to fight crime and corruption in a futuristic city.
- The Punisher (2004): A third-person shooter based on the Marvel Comics character, The Punisher, who wages a one-man war against crime.
Travel Guide: Visiting Death Wish filming locations in real life
For fans who want to visit the real-life locations where Death Wish (2018) was filmed, consider planning a trip to Montreal, Canada.
The city offers a variety of attractions, including the beautiful Old Montreal, the bustling downtown area, and the picturesque Mont-Royal Park.
While exploring the city, be sure to visit some of the film’s shooting locations, such as the Montreal General Hospital, the Westmount neighborhood, and the various city streets and alleys where the action scenes were filmed.
Conclusion: The lasting impact of Death Wish
Death Wish (2018) is a captivating film that continues the legacy of Brian Garfield’s original novel and the classic 1974 film.
With its intense action, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, the story of Paul Kersey resonates with audiences and invites discussions about morality, justice, and the consequences of taking the law into one’s own hands.
From the book and movie summaries to the exploration of the film’s locations, characters, and themes, we hope that this comprehensive guide has provided you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for Death Wish (2018) and its enduring impact on popular culture.
