Vigilante

Vigilante is a gritty, action-packed 1982 cult classic film, directed by William Lustig and star-studded with actors like Robert Forster, Fred Williamson, and Richard Bright. This American exploitation film stands out with its raw visceral depiction of justice—or more precisely, the lack thereof.

The film centers on Eddie Marino (Robert Forster), an everyday, blue-collar worker living in a crime-ridden part of New York City. Eddie's life is depicted as simple and content, but when the brutal realities of his environment hit too close to home, he is irreversibly catapulted into a world where the only justice is the kind you make yourself.

The story is set into motion when Eddie's wife Vickie (Rutanya Alda), has a deadly encounter with a gang led by the vicious Rico (Willie Colón). Following these horrific events, Eddie hopes that the system in which he is deeply ingrained will provide justice, and Rico's trial will provide relief and closure. However, he soon discovers that the legal system is flawed and riddled with corruption, and this ignites a flame within Eddie to take justice into his own hands.

Robert Forster, famous for his film noir roles, artistically portrays Eddie, giving the audience an insight into both the character's initial naivety, and his subsequent transformation into a resolute vigilante. The transition of his character from being a law-abiding citizen to taking justice into his own hands in whatever way necessary makes the audience question the fine line between good and bad, victim and perpetrator.

Fred Williamson adds another layer to the film as Nick, a co-worker of Eddie's who is fed up with rampant and unpunished crime. He is the leader of a vigilante group seeking to clean up the neighborhood, disregarding the legal process on account of its corrupt and ineffective nature. Williamson's portrayal of Nick is nuanced and thought-provoking, adding fuel to the moral debate around vigilante justice.

Meanwhile, Richard Bright plays attorney Eisenberg, a character deeply entrenched in the flawed justice system. His performance broadens the narrative, by offering an alternate perspective. Bright's ability to play duplicitous characters shines through Eisenberg, adding depth to the social commentary the film provides on corruption and the crumbling legal framework.

The plot is laden with tension and contrast, blending peaceful suburban life with stark urban decay and the grimness of the underworld. The narrative is further amplified by the cold, industrial landscapes of 1980s New York City, with cinematographer James Lemmo masterfully infusing the frames with the despair and lawlessness that fuel Eddie’s transformation.

Director William Lustig’s focus on character development makes the audience empathetically witness Eddie’s descent into a savage world where justice is subjective. The film utilizes its exploitation roots to flesh out thoughtful commentaries on crime, corruption, and vigilante justice. Instead of simply glorifying violence and vigilante justice, it throws light on the circumstances that could lead someone on to such a path.

The action sequences are well choreographed and raw, devoid of the typical glitz and humour often accompanying such scenes in other action films. Lustig takes great care in producing realistic and engaging fight scenes that further one’s investment in the narrative. The film's score, by Jay Chattaway, adds another dimension to the raw atmosphere of the film, reflecting the general sense of dread and lingering danger.

Vigilante challenges its audience to consider the ramifications of a society that continually fails its citizens. It's a powerful, uncomfortable, and thought-provoking film that questions the boundaries of justice and morality. Through his brilliantly dark depiction of life at its grittiest, Lustig creates a film that is much more than a simple revenge story. It's an exploration into the world of a man seeking justice, in a society where it seems to be in short supply.