The Equalizer (2014 film)

The Equalizer was a 2014 action movie inspired by an earlier TV series. The protagonist is a retired CIA black ops agent who now applies his skills to assisting people against more powerful enemies, to equalize the playing field.


 * The Atoner: Trying to make amends for his agency work.


 * Boston: The city provides many iconic images.


 * Chekov's Gun: Security guard exercising by dragging heavy tires.


 * Combat Pragmatist: Everything is lethal.


 * Cultured Badass: McCall reads the '100 Books Everyone Should Read' and discusses philosophy.


 * Damsel in Distress: young Russian prostitute


 * Determinator: McCall in Home Mart conflict.


 * Improvised Weapon: Anything is lethal, especially the local hardware store.


 * The Irish Mob: The Irish mob is destroyed by the new Russian mob.


 * One Riot, One Ranger: Major hostage situation but hero saves single-handed without back-up.


 * Pay Evil Unto Evil: Take no prisoners


 * Retired Badass: McCall faking own death to get out of black-ops.


 * Ruthless Foreign Gangsters: Those Russian rascals.


 * Tranquil Fury: Entering 'kill-zone' before engaging enemy.