Avenging Angel

Avenging Angel is a gripping action and crime film released in 1985 by New World Pictures. Directed by Robert Vincent O'Neil, it presents the gritty story of a young woman named Molly, played intensely by Betsy Russell, who returns to her dark past to seek justice. The film is a sequel to the 1984 movie 'Angel', keeping intact the tale of survival, thrills, and retribution on the streets of Los Angeles.

The title character, Angel, is actually Molly Stewart, a former prostitute who left the streets behind to pursue a more morally upright life. Through depth of character, Molly-an-Angel captures the duality of her life. She’s a law school student by day and a feared vigilante by night. Betsy Russell delivers a phenomenal performance bringing to life the transformation of Molly into a victim turned vigilante.

Rory Calhoun stars as Kit Carson, an older cowboy and one of Angel's trusted street friends who provides armed backup and much-needed wisdom as she descends back into the night. Susan Tyrrell reprises her role as Solly, the eccentric, alcoholic landlord. Each character's individual complexities add a layer of authenticity to the harsh reality portrayed in the film.

The plot unfolds as Molly learns that Lieutenant Andrews, a former policemen, and a father-like figure from her past has been savagely murdered. Torn between her desire for a normal life and her need for justice, she forgoes her promising future in law and returns to the streets as 'Angel'.

Los Angeles serves as the moody backdrop for this revenge-driven crusade. The neon-lit streets, grimy back-alleys, and grim urban atmosphere play host to the darker elements of society, eliciting both fear and intrigue as Angel navigates her revenge-driven pursuit.

Avenging Angel explores the struggles of a woman battling to unearth the underbelly of crime in a city scarred by violence and sin. It slips into the 'grindhouse' style with its shadowy representation of crime, vengeance, and the life of those pushed to the edge of society.

Director Robert Vincent O'Neil does a commendable job, drawing the audience into a web of corruption, exploitation, and retribution. Through a balanced mix of high-octane action, subtle humor, and poignant moments, he successfully showcases the grimy world of street life in Los Angeles in the 1980s.

The film's music is an exciting blend of 80s culture and suspenseful sound, with a pulsating score by Christopher Young. The cinematography by Peter Lyons Collister reflects the harsh reality of Molly's life, painting the dangerous urban landscape in stark, moody tones that underscore the gravity of her journey.

Avenging Angel doesn’t shy away from exploring the morally ambiguous realm of street life. It blurs the lines between the realities of the harsh street life and the longing for justice and retribution, ensuring a connection of empathy and ire toward the characters.

Throughout the film, a blend of intense performances and engaging storytelling keeps the viewer rooted. Russell flawlessly depicts Molly's internal struggle as she fights against a criminal world, symbolizing strength and resilience of the human spirit.

The movie also touches upon the themes of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice, with Angel's friends going out of their way to aid her mission, proving that even in the darkest corners of society, human warmth can prevail.

The film leaves viewers on the edge of their seats with its unexpected twists and turns, staying engaging till the very end. The portrayal of a strong female character seeking justice manages to keep the narrative convincing and intriguing.

Avenging Angel is indeed an action-packed experience, filled with atmospheric visuals, striking performances, and an adrenaline-pumping storyline. It manages to provide a cinematic experience that's far from ordinary, crafting a world of crime and retribution that's laden with memorable characters and expressive storytelling.

Despite the darker themes, Avenging Angel is a rewarding watch that manages to spruce up its vigilante tale with engaging characters, a gritty narrative, and plenty of unexpected moments. Whether you're a fan of the original 'Angel' or newcomers to the series, Avenging Angel is an unforgettable dive into the darker side of 1980s Los Angeles. It is more than just a revenge flick; it's a look into the turbulent human spirit when confronted with the stark realities of crime and immorality.