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A crime thriller hailed as a ‘masterpiece’ by some, yet overlooked upon its initial release, is now available for streaming at no cost.
The film, Law Abiding Citizen, first graced the big screen in 2009 and managed to rake in more than double its production budget at the box office, grossing approximately $128 million against a $53 million budget.
Despite its financial success, some argue that it doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves within its genre.
The script was penned by Kurt Wimmer, who also wrote the remakes of Point Break and Total Recall.
Wimmer is also the creative force behind the 2024 cult action favourite The Beekeeper, featuring Jason Statham.
The director’s chair was occupied by F. Gary Gray, known for his work on Straight Outta Compton, The Fate of the Furious and Men In Black: International, reports the Mirror.
According to the film’s synopsis, the plot revolves around Clyde Shelton, portrayed by Gerard Butler, a former CIA engineer whose family falls victim to a brutal home invasion.
However, due to police mishandling of crucial evidence, a plea bargain is struck, allowing one of the murderers to walk free. This prompts Shelton to take justice into his own hands, seeking retribution not only against the killers but also against what he perceives as a corrupt justice system that enabled the deal.
He embarks on a vengeful crusade, methodically eliminating those responsible, which draws assistant district attorney Nick Rice, portrayed by Jamie Foxx, into a perilous battle of wits to halt his rampage.
Whether discovering it for the first time or revisiting this thriller, audiences can now watch it without additional charge. The film is available to stream free on ITVX for a limited period and isn’t currently accessible elsewhere, so viewers should seize the opportunity whilst it lasts.
Despite receiving lukewarm reviews from critics, with one describing it as ‘Saw but with Gerard Butler as Jigsaw’ – which may appeal to certain audiences – Law Abiding Citizen has garnered a devoted following who argue it deserves greater recognition, drawing comparisons to acknowledged cinematic gems.
One admirer declared: “Whereas David Fincher’s Seven received accolades, this masterpiece went unnoticed. This film counts as among the best movies I have ever seen. It is a solid revenge based thriller, with tense drama and terrific performances by Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx.”
Numerous supporters echoed these sentiments, with one fan asserting: “‘Law Abiding Citizen is a top 10 movie of all time.”
Another proclaimed: ‘Law Abiding Citizen is almost a classic film and it’s performance by Gerard Butler is Oscar-worthy. “”.
A further enthusiast stated: “Law Abiding Citizen is one of the greatest movies ever made. Real cinema” whilst another suggested: “this is one of the best films ever made.”
Law Abiding Citizen is streaming on ITVX.
