Death Wish V: The Face of Death

Death Wish V: The Face of Death is the final installment of the popular Death Wish series created in the mid-70s. Released in 1994, this action-packed, thrilling film once again sees Charles Bronson reprising his iconic role as vigilante Paul Kersey.

The film opens with Kersey living under an assumed identity in New York, trying to escape his violent past. His peaceful routine is shattered when his life once again crosses paths with hardened criminals and he is left with no option but to revert to his old ways. Kersey’s quest for justice takes a personal turn this time, involving him in a war against mobsters, rendering this new chapter more emotionally charged than its predecessors.

Charles Bronson, unmatched in this genre, delivers an intense and gritty performance as Paul Kersey. Tough, resilient, but also emotionally vulnerable, Bronson's portrayal has gained him recognition across the globe. His delightful character progression over the years has led to an elaborate portrayal in the final installment, showing his prowess in depicting nuanced characters.

Lesley-Anne Down plays the role of Olivia Regent, a prominent fashion designer and Kersey's lover, whose life is unfortunately entangled with the vicious mob boss. Down’s impactful performance adds a layer of charm and intensity to the film. Her character's predicament is the pivot around which the plot swings. The chemistry between Bronson and Down is excellent and highlights the personal stakes involved in the film.

Michael Parks portrays the vile mob boss Tommy O'Shea. His character is cruel, ruthless, and a perfect villain for a Death Wish film. Parks' performance of a menacing nemesis skilled in manipulation is utterly convincing and immerses the audience in the narrative. The diverse cast also includes familiar faces like Robert Joy and Saul Rubinek whose performances contribute to the overall plot progression and cinematic experience.

The film does not shy away from displaying the grim and grimy world of organized crime and the helpless victims caught in the crossfire. Directed by Allan. A. Goldstein, the movie has an undercurrent of tension that keeps the viewers on their toes. Violence, which is a characteristic aspect of the Death Wish series, is prevalent in this film as well, but accompanied by a more focused narrative which centers around the main character's personal relationships.

Just like its predecessors, Death Wish V: The Face of Death doesn't stray away from its hard-hitting, unflinching depiction of lawlessness and justice. However, unlike the previous installments, it delves deeper into the personal cost of torment, offering a more emotional perspective that elevates the overall viewing experience.

Goldstein's directorial skills shine through as he crafts lively sequences and maintains the pace of the film through aptly placed plot developments. The screenplay, written by Goldstein himself and Michael Colleary, is gripping and ensures that the film never loses its momentum. Moreover, the cinematography by Curtis Petersen captures the dank, dangerous streets of New York, reinforcing the impact of the sordid world the film depicts.

Death Wish V: The Face of Death also excels in the technical aspects. The action scenes are realistically choreographed, and the movie's score, composed by Terry Plumeri, enhances the cinematic experience with its thrilling soundtracks that sync well with the movie's tone.

The film also provides a fitting closure for Bronson's character, by focusing on the human aspect of vigilantism along with the expected adrenaline-pumping action. Bronson, a giant in the genre, does justice to his character and ensures that his final appearance as Paul Kersey remains memorable.

In conclusion, for fans of Charles Bronson and the Death Wish series, Death Wish V: The Face of Death holds a special place. It wraps up the actions of Kersey in an impactful and satisfying manner without compromising the thrilling elements that made the series a hit. This film proves to be a worthwhile watch for those who have followed Kersey's journey and is a worthy addition in the action and thriller genre. The film combines drama, action, thrills and a touch of romance, rounding out an epic journey that began almost two decades earlier.