As a kid in the ’80s, I remember The Equalizer very well, although I wasn’t a regular viewer. Stingray was my show in that genre back then, despite the fact that it didn’t last nearly as long. Probably the best equivalent to the show today would be Human Target, a program of which I am a regular – and avid – viewer. Anyway, Edward Woodward played Robert McCall, a former secret agent of an unnamed agency who is looking to atone for past misdeeds by offering his services as a protector or troubleshooter free of charge. It ran from 1985 to 1989.
So now, The Equalizer is apparently due for a remake, and Russell Crowe has signed himself up to ride in McCall’s Jaguar for The Weinstein Company. The project’s been in development hell for awhile, even having Push’s Paul McGuinan attached at one point. Seraphim Falls’ David von Ancken was most recently attached. No word if that’s still the case or if someone else will come on board. The premise of the former bad guy atoning is one that’s easily adaptable, and Crowe is a perfect fit for this, I think.
Now if only I can get that theatrical reboot of Vengeance Unlimited with Michael Madsen back in it.
Thanks to Felix for the tip.
14 comments
I'm not behind this. Woodward was a rarity; someone who could play both a gentleman and a thug in the same role, and be believable in both. Crowe is simply a thug. Besides the name, this really could be any movie about a former secret agent. It really doesn't need to be "The Equalizer".
Crowe's working for the Weinstein pigs?? Shit, things must be getting desperate down under.
I recall the Equalizer being gray-haired and a bit pudgy. Sounds like perfect casting. Who will play his sketchy sidekick-perhaps Paul Bettany with a reunion tour.
Surely Daniel Craig would be a better fit for the lead role than Crowe?
Daniel Craig would be perfect. Good call. The Equalizer was interesting in that it was also a nod to Woodward's previous series Callan in the same way The Prisoner was a nod to Dangerman. Craig as a post-Bond agent would be really great, particularly while he's still Bond.
Won't see the movie, I'll just get the soundtrack. Loved the theme music by Stewart Copeland. But the show was great too. to #4 I think the role has a slightly Bondish quality to it, perhaps to close for comfort for Craig.
This is great, Russell dear, but shouldn't you be gearing up to do another Jack Aubrey film again. God I loved you in that.
No way the little rocker hooligan who plays Robin Hood in chunks can hope to take over for the man who had also kicked major ass as Callan – like remaking DIRTY HARRY with Shia Leboeuf as Scorpio. Good sign of the changing times as any, that.
so the Equalizer is looking for/and brings balance to the world..
Man I'm so glad you brought up Vengeance Unlimited – I remember that show being all sort of awesome. And Madsen was perfect
Daniel Craig is not perfect for this. Michael Caine is perfect for this. I don't care how god damned old he is.
Ian McShane. He's perfect for this.
The success of Burn Notice is probably an instigator for getting this film on track. BN is far more light-hearted and far less realistic than The Equaliser but it still works for me. I agree with #1, Crowe just doesn't have the range to fill Edward Woodward's shoes.
Great information! I’ve been looking for something like this for a while now. Thanks!
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