Judge. Jury. Executioner.

Starring: Charles Bronson, Hope Lange, Vincent Gardenia, Steven Keats, William Redfield, Stuart Margolin, Stephen Elliott, Jack Wallace

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ - good

"I mean, if we're not pioneers, what have we become? What do you call people who, when they're faced with a condition or fear, do nothing about it? They just run and hide?" - Paul Kersey

Why watch this? A lone vigilante takes on street crime in New York City.

Plot Summary: Paul Kersey, a New York City architect, leads a peaceful life with his family until a violent home invasion shatters his world. Frustrated by the inability of law enforcement to apprehend the culprits, he begins to take matters into his own hands. Armed with a growing resolve and a firearm, he patrols the streets at night, confronting and dispensing his own form of justice to criminals.

Dad's Preview: In the late 60's and early 70's, cop films grew grittier. Eastwood was Dirty Harry (1971). McQueen was Bullitt (1968). Wayne was McQ (1974). This film found its niche centering on a regular guy who takes matters into his own hands. The vigilante cometh. Bronson excels as a man who has had enough. There are four sequels, but none are as good as this original.

Dino De Laurantiis Corp.; Paramount Pictures