I'm old enough to remember the original tv show so I had reservations about a 'reboot'. It is off to a great start, looking forward to more episodes. As per other reviewers, if all you've got to gripe about is someone's weight then that's pretty sad of you!! Queen Latiffah is a brilliant actress, the supporting cast a great. Well done to all involved, looking forward to more even though I'm not usually a fan of reboots. Watch The Equalizer, you won't be disappointed!
21 Reviews
Not As Bad As I Thought It Would Be
Foxbarking8 February 2021
Okay, first off, I am not giving this a glowing recommendation. I am also not going to pretend that Queen Latifah was the correct person to step into the role originated by Edward Woodward and continued by Denzel Washington. But it wasn't as bad as it looked in the commercials.
The show mixes some of the traits of the two Robert McCalls. Right away, you see Robyn McCall exhibit some of the traits of Denzel's character in her fighting. But you also get to see further in the episode, some of the chess playing that made Woodward's McCall so brilliant and iconic.
It wasn't great. But it was good enough for me to watch the next episode and see how it goes.
The show mixes some of the traits of the two Robert McCalls. Right away, you see Robyn McCall exhibit some of the traits of Denzel's character in her fighting. But you also get to see further in the episode, some of the chess playing that made Woodward's McCall so brilliant and iconic.
It wasn't great. But it was good enough for me to watch the next episode and see how it goes.
Great debut! Definitely has potential...
missesluvjones10 February 2021
In The Equalizer we meet Robyn McCall (Queen Latifah) who is a former CIA operative who's not quite ready to let go of the job. She's been off the radar until a teenaged girl witnesses a murder and is framed by the individuals who did it. While she is unable to get help from the police, she finds protection with McCall who works at all costs to keep her alive. The action is suspenseful and the energy most times is high-paced. Along with it, we're shown glimpses of McCall's background as a single parent and trying to navigate her footing after years as an agent. Enjoyable cast. Thoughtful pacing. Strong female-lead. While I felt remnants of Person of Interest (which was pretty awesome), the jury is still out. I'm looking forward to the next episode rooting for the show at this point.
As pilot episodes go...
thecrippledmediaenthusiast10 February 2021
As pilot episodes go, this was pretty far above average. Decent story (although kinda predictable), great introductions for a good diverse group of characters, and the action wasn't bad either (a few to many cuts in the fight scene for my taste but impressive nonetheless). Looking forward to the next episode!
A Reboot with Aim!
Invest_when9 February 2021
The pilot episode does reign true to the Queen. Latifah's version of McCall depicts her compassion for those that life does not protect. Her contemporary dialogue correlated with intelligence while adapting to situations, scenarios, and resources exhibit a stellar performance. Just another Day in the neighborhood for Queen Latifah as our 2.0 rendition of the Equalizer.
A different spin!
dmshirlee10 February 2021
I enjoyed watching this and I like that a woman is the lead actor. I am reading reviews about her not being fit for physical activity. What equalizer have they been watching 60yr old Denzel or 55yr old Edward (may he Rest In Peace). I watched both men in their role and they were cool and not running around after retirement.
Some young girls may find this empowering for their future goals
Ed-Shullivan18 February 2021
This is a great show for young girls and it seems that every young girl can find a reason to fit into this fight club nowadays who are looking for a heroine that they can somehow relate to as a champion for the underdog.
Queen Latifah is the third actor playing the Equalizer role which was first created by actor Edward Woodward which lasted four (4) seasons from 1985-1989, then by Denzel Washington in two (2) feature films in 2014, and 2018.
Adding to the copycat characters actor Adam Goldberg who plays the technical software wizard Harry Keshegian who seems to have no firewall he can't infiltrate played the exact same role in a previous TV series titled Taken in 2018 when he played another tech wizard simply named Kilroy.
As for TV viewers like myself who are looking for a decent crime/drama TV series that is good drama with a gritty story line we will have to look elsewhere.
I give it a higher than deserving 6 out of 10 IMDB rating so that the younger generation have a heroine to look up to, but it ain't me babe.
Queen Latifah is the third actor playing the Equalizer role which was first created by actor Edward Woodward which lasted four (4) seasons from 1985-1989, then by Denzel Washington in two (2) feature films in 2014, and 2018.
Adding to the copycat characters actor Adam Goldberg who plays the technical software wizard Harry Keshegian who seems to have no firewall he can't infiltrate played the exact same role in a previous TV series titled Taken in 2018 when he played another tech wizard simply named Kilroy.
As for TV viewers like myself who are looking for a decent crime/drama TV series that is good drama with a gritty story line we will have to look elsewhere.
I give it a higher than deserving 6 out of 10 IMDB rating so that the younger generation have a heroine to look up to, but it ain't me babe.
This show looks very familiar
Tulareowls8 February 2021
At least pick someone who could actually "do the work"
rorge_retson14 January 2022
Someone who has a hard time lifting their foot 10 inches off the ground is "The Equalizer"? Seriously? I've heard of suspending disbelief, but this goes way beyond that.
The first fight scene in the first episode of the first season is so blurry that I can't tell if I'm watching Bruce Lee or a cell phone in a blender. I guess that's what happens when your star gets winded just walking to the fight.
Nothing against QL - as an actress she is okay - but if she (and the producers) wanted her to actually be believable in the role, they should have stuck her in yoga and on keto. Hard fail.
The first fight scene in the first episode of the first season is so blurry that I can't tell if I'm watching Bruce Lee or a cell phone in a blender. I guess that's what happens when your star gets winded just walking to the fight.
Nothing against QL - as an actress she is okay - but if she (and the producers) wanted her to actually be believable in the role, they should have stuck her in yoga and on keto. Hard fail.
The Equalizer
Prismark1016 February 2021
The unusual thing about the The Equaliser reboot is that it was turned into a series of movies just a few years ago.
So Edward Woodward turned to Denzel Washington and is now Queen Latifah.
Robyn McCall is an ex CIA badass who is now wondering what to do with her life. She has a teenage daughter to raise and jaded by the games that the intelligence services play.
The answer comes when Robyn aids a waitress on the run. She witnessed a murder only for the police to view a manipulated video which shows the waitress as the killer.
Her investigations brings an Elon Musk type tech entrepreneur into the frame.
Robyn finds that she has a calling and it is evening the odds.
A fast moving but superficial episode. Some of the fight scenes and the jump cuts are swifter than the opening title sequence.
I did groan when Robyn and her former CIA handler played by Chris Noth talked about chess pieces on a board. Only to reveal that his name is William Bishop!
So Edward Woodward turned to Denzel Washington and is now Queen Latifah.
Robyn McCall is an ex CIA badass who is now wondering what to do with her life. She has a teenage daughter to raise and jaded by the games that the intelligence services play.
The answer comes when Robyn aids a waitress on the run. She witnessed a murder only for the police to view a manipulated video which shows the waitress as the killer.
Her investigations brings an Elon Musk type tech entrepreneur into the frame.
Robyn finds that she has a calling and it is evening the odds.
A fast moving but superficial episode. Some of the fight scenes and the jump cuts are swifter than the opening title sequence.
I did groan when Robyn and her former CIA handler played by Chris Noth talked about chess pieces on a board. Only to reveal that his name is William Bishop!
Hope it gets better, way better
bmiller598 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I was really looking forward to this for many reasons. Queen Latifa, all the hype, the original series way back in late 80's, and Denzel's two movies also named The Equalizer. I sure was disappointed.
This adaptation was like any other crime drama on TV, nothing more, and obviously less. The show in late 80's starring Edward Woodward was unique. Woodward made it believable and his Jag was so cool, oh yea, he was British. I never missed an episode.
All the elements of this were so contrived, words off a page like any script. Her malcontent daughter, really. Her very young partner proficient with that weapon, come on now, not believable. Her torturing and subsequent release by her people, really.
Yea, The Queen can play a bad ass, and she does it fine but it doesn't work for this show. I'm a huge fan of The Queen and really looked forward to this and wanted it to work. I'll give it a chance for the three episodes in the can.
I'm writing this review like I normally do, without looking at cumulative score and other reviews. I'm eager to see what others think.
If possible, find the initial Equalizer with Edward Woodward, it was great.
This adaptation was like any other crime drama on TV, nothing more, and obviously less. The show in late 80's starring Edward Woodward was unique. Woodward made it believable and his Jag was so cool, oh yea, he was British. I never missed an episode.
All the elements of this were so contrived, words off a page like any script. Her malcontent daughter, really. Her very young partner proficient with that weapon, come on now, not believable. Her torturing and subsequent release by her people, really.
Yea, The Queen can play a bad ass, and she does it fine but it doesn't work for this show. I'm a huge fan of The Queen and really looked forward to this and wanted it to work. I'll give it a chance for the three episodes in the can.
I'm writing this review like I normally do, without looking at cumulative score and other reviews. I'm eager to see what others think.
If possible, find the initial Equalizer with Edward Woodward, it was great.
Perfect
lubna-mukdad11 February 2021
quick fix for action junkies
kokomo12322 February 2021
Wrong Actor for Part
jrlmendoza8 February 2021
Like everyone else I have much love and respect for Queen Latifah but she is not believable in this character. As with any action movie, the actor has to at least have an athletic appearance to go along with great acting. I do however, like that a female was cast for this role because my daughter and I love action movies. And, I also want her to see strong females of color playing these parts.
Check Your Biases
StoryLover1014 February 2021
I truly believe that judging a series by its first episode is entirely unfair. So much of a first script is designed to establish premise and character. I watched this because I remember Edward Woodward's gravitas and Denzel's intensity to the lead role--so my expectations were not without my own implicit biases. These two interpretations preview that the Robert/Robin McCall character is malleable, versatile, with nuanced competency. Queen Latifah was more impressive than I believe she has been credited for. She is not YET a polished actor, but is a natural and possesses the talent to expand the role. I look forward to watching her develop this character.
The writing was predictable, but in fairness, network TV requires this. I've certainly seen worse. Network TV also needs more POC representation in primary characters and executive, behind-the-scene roles. This show honors the former with a quality, inclusive cast. Producing and directing will hopefully follow suit.
Writing: the deep fake thing--a bit corny. The remaining storyline wasn't bad, though. Again, watching families of color portrayed as realistic humans, not embarrassing caricatures, was ever so refreshing. I'm always holding my breath when POCs are written by non-POCs. I suspect this is in large part Queen Latifah's contribution, the authenticity. I've always enjoyed Liza Lapira and her performance here did not disappoint. Adam Goldberg was himself, but he does it so well! Chris Noth, as well, honors the show with a solid performance.
Give this show the opportunity and room to grow--it has real potential.
The writing was predictable, but in fairness, network TV requires this. I've certainly seen worse. Network TV also needs more POC representation in primary characters and executive, behind-the-scene roles. This show honors the former with a quality, inclusive cast. Producing and directing will hopefully follow suit.
Writing: the deep fake thing--a bit corny. The remaining storyline wasn't bad, though. Again, watching families of color portrayed as realistic humans, not embarrassing caricatures, was ever so refreshing. I'm always holding my breath when POCs are written by non-POCs. I suspect this is in large part Queen Latifah's contribution, the authenticity. I've always enjoyed Liza Lapira and her performance here did not disappoint. Adam Goldberg was himself, but he does it so well! Chris Noth, as well, honors the show with a solid performance.
Give this show the opportunity and room to grow--it has real potential.
Horribly miscast...
fredwmeyer29 February 2021
When you have to use jump cuts to compensate for lack of athletic prowess in the opening fight scene your series is in real trouble.
I like Queen Latifah but this show is miscast for how it is written. This Equalizer should be running a team vs functioning as muscle.
I like Queen Latifah but this show is miscast for how it is written. This Equalizer should be running a team vs functioning as muscle.
Bad CBS Joke
yusufpiskin8 February 2021
Don't let the concepts get mixed up. This series is a remake of the 1984 series. It has nothing to do with the films of Antoine Fuqua. But it's a bad remake. I love Queen Latifah, but it is a very wrong choice for this role.
Cheesy. Generic. Mediocre at best.
kaladinstormblessed-378809 February 2021
Maybe it will get better?
rondadams8 February 2021
I have to be honest, I didn't finish the first episode. From what I did finish, I couldn't help but feel like they were trying too hard to fit a size 10 foot into a size 6 shoe. That's not a fat joke aimed at Queen Latifa, it was just not a good fit of the actors to the roles, and felt very forced.
Better than expected - but probably not good enough
opinionated-alchemist19 March 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Look - I checked out the old TV series of The Equalizer. And while it is "cult" - it isn't really holding up really well.
Other the Denzel Washington interpretation. Man, this is a pretty different characterization and it is tight (sorry Movie Pitch Meetings).
Let's face it: I like Queen Latifah. And the "detective (sorry forgot his name" is also promising. But there is something particularly missing: darkness!
Look - if someone did any assassinations and other hyper-violent stuff, they are damaged. PTSD, or some "damages". And they have particularly traits. Now if The Equalizer would be an action comedy show, it would be ok. It would work, because of the ridiculousness that a "soccer mum" is a world class assassin (or better said a retired one). But the Equalizer is just an action series. I am really missing dedication of the writers and the actors to get it right. Why can't the film production industry learn? From John Wick? From Strike Force?
You don't want to get through all action scenes with shaky cam and cut scenes. You want to have at least the appearance of a real fight. Weapons which have magazines, which have a safety (probably even a weapon which malfunctions).
You want to have characters, which have demons because what they did in the past. And these demons are not easy to shake off with a hug.
So... the series just lacks depth - in my book just a total forgettable show. Unfortunately.
Other the Denzel Washington interpretation. Man, this is a pretty different characterization and it is tight (sorry Movie Pitch Meetings).
Let's face it: I like Queen Latifah. And the "detective (sorry forgot his name" is also promising. But there is something particularly missing: darkness!
Look - if someone did any assassinations and other hyper-violent stuff, they are damaged. PTSD, or some "damages". And they have particularly traits. Now if The Equalizer would be an action comedy show, it would be ok. It would work, because of the ridiculousness that a "soccer mum" is a world class assassin (or better said a retired one). But the Equalizer is just an action series. I am really missing dedication of the writers and the actors to get it right. Why can't the film production industry learn? From John Wick? From Strike Force?
You don't want to get through all action scenes with shaky cam and cut scenes. You want to have at least the appearance of a real fight. Weapons which have magazines, which have a safety (probably even a weapon which malfunctions).
You want to have characters, which have demons because what they did in the past. And these demons are not easy to shake off with a hug.
So... the series just lacks depth - in my book just a total forgettable show. Unfortunately.
Has potential
erictraska11 February 2021
First off, I grew up with the original in the 1980s. I've also seen both big screen movies and no this is neither. The first episode although good need's a little "seasoning." I'm hoping the creators and writers will give us some backstory to sink our teeth in. The show deserves a chance after an okay premier. Other reviewers need to be reminded of three shows with less than stellar starts, were would we be if the creators of "Seinfeld", "Bones" and "Breaking Bad weren't given a chance to "right their respective "ships"? And the person making "weight" jokes about
Queen Latifah's weight needs to re-enroll in the first grade.
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