Moviefone Editorial

Tag: dakota-fanning

  • ‘Vicious’ Exclusive Interview: Dakota Fanning

    tXKc6bGQ

    Premiering on Paramount+, digital and On Demand beginning October 10th is the new horror film ‘Vicious’, which was directed by Bryan Bertino (‘The Strangers’) and stars Dakota Fanning (‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’, ‘The Equalizer 3’).

    nC5S8SN3BoIplrZpSSQfC3

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Dakota Fanning about her work on ‘Vicious’, her first reaction to the screenplay and her character, the unusual gift and news her character receives, how she would react to that choice in real life, and the challenges of acting alone.

    Dakota Fanning stars in 'Vicious.'
    Dakota Fanning stars in ‘Vicious.’

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interview.

    Related Article: Dakota Fanning Talks Director Ishana Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Watchers’

    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures' 'Vicious.'
    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures’ ‘Vicious.’

    Moviefone: To begin with, can you talk about your first reaction to the screenplay and what were some of the aspects of this character that you were excited to explore on screen?

    Dakota Fannig: Well, when I first read it, I was very struck by the challenge of it all. I knew that it would be a very physically and emotionally demanding experience. I felt like I hadn’t properly gotten to dive into a pure horror film, which I felt like this would really be that. Brian is obviously very skilled and prolific in that genre. So, I knew that I could trust him. Talking with him, I knew that the creative collaboration between us would be wonderful, and it was. So, I just felt like it was something that I hadn’t done before, and I thought, why not give it a try?

    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures' 'Vicious.'
    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures’ ‘Vicious.’

    MF: Can you talk about Polly’s reaction to receiving this gift and the news about her future that comes with it, and how do you think you would react in real life if given the same information?

    DF: Oh, my gosh, I don’t know. I don’t know that I would have gotten myself into the predicament that Polly did. If people ring my door, or ring my gate, I just pretend I’m not home. So, I don’t know. But, that moment of her receiving the mysterious gift is the beginning of this kind of psychological battle that she ends up having with herself. When I first read the script and was thinking about it and thinking about like what would keep me grounded in this experience, I remembered I had this dream once that was a truly lucid dream where I woke up in the morning and didn’t know if it had been real or not. It took place in my apartment, and I woke up and was like, “I’ve lost my mind”. You know what I mean? I really had one of those moments. It was crazy. So, that was my inspiration for this was the feeling that dream had given me. I feel like Polly is locked in that feeling throughout the whole film. That’s a scary thing when the thing that is scaring you the most is yourself and your own thoughts. So, that was what I leaned into when I was making it. That would keep me grounded when things would get out of control, or I was trying to find something to hold onto. I would remember that crazy, scary dream that I had, and I’d go back into that feeling.

    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures' 'Vicious.'
    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures’ ‘Vicious.’

    MF: Finally, you spend a lot of the movie acting by yourself. Can you talk about the challenges of that and were you super excited on the few days when you did have a scene partner?

    DF: Yes, I was thrilled when there were other people to act with for sure. They’re obviously super important moments that involve other actors. But for the majority at the time, I am alone. I knew that would be something different, a challenge and something that I hadn’t done before. Even though I developed such a strong rapport with the crew and with Brian and with Tristan (Nyby), the DP and so I never felt alone. I always felt like I had a collaborative support system around me and they may not have always been actors, but they were creative people, and we were all there on the same journey. So, even though I maybe looked alone, I never really felt alone. I always felt like I had them there to collaborate with. So that was nice.

    'Vicious' will premiere on Paramount+ beginning October 10th.
    ‘Vicious’ will premiere on Paramount+ beginning October 10th.

    What is the plot of ‘Vicious’?

    A young woman (Dakota Fanning) must spend the night fighting for her existence as she slips down a disturbing rabbit hole contained inside a mysterious gift from a late-night visitor (Kathryn Hunter).

    Who is in the cast of ‘Vicious’?

    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures' 'Vicious.'
    Dakota Fanning stars in Paramount Pictures’ ‘Vicious.’

    List of Dakota Fanning Movies:

    Buy Dakota Fanning Movies on Amazon

  • Yahya Abdul-Mateen II to Star in and Produce ‘Man on Fire’ Series Adaptation

    (Left) Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Black Manta in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure 'Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures/ ™ & © DC Comics. (Right) Denzel Washington in 'Man on Fire'. Photo: 20th Century Fox.
    (Left) Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Black Manta in Warner Bros. Pictures’ action adventure ‘Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros Pictures/ ™ & © DC Comics. (Right) Denzel Washington in ‘Man on Fire’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    Preview:

    • Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is aboard to star in and produce a ‘Man on Fire’ series.
    • ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’ director Steven Caple Jr. is also aboard.
    • ‘Fear Street’s Kyle Killen is head writer and producer on the show.

    If you mention the title ‘Man on Fire’, chances are most people will think of the 2004 Tony Scott action thriller that represented one of his standout collaborations with Denzel Washington.

    But did you know that A) the movie was based on a book and B) was previously adapted into a 1987 movie starring Scott Glenn?

    And if Netflix has its way, we’ll also all be thinking of a new series adaptations of the novels, which has been in the works for a few months. Now ‘Aquaman’ and ‘Watchmen’ actor Yahya Abdul-Mateen II is aboard to star the series, via Deadline.

    16435

    What’s the story of ‘Man on Fire’?

    Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning in 'Man on Fire'.
    (L to R) Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning in ‘Man on Fire’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    While the books have Creasy as an American former member of the French Foreign Legion, the Scott movie updated the basics to feature him as a hard-drinking, burnt-out ex-CIA operative who has given up on life until he’s hired as a bodyguard to protect 9-year-old Pita Ramos (Dakota Fanning). Bit by bit, Creasy (Washington) begins to reclaim some of his soul, but when Pita is kidnapped, Creasy’s fiery rage is finally released, and he will stop at nothing to save her as he sets out on a dangerous, revenge-fueled rescue mission.

    There is plenty material to use for the series, since Quinnell (the pen name of author Philip Nicholson) wrote four more novels –– 1992’s ‘The Perfect Kill’, 1993’s ‘The Blue Ring’, 1994’s ‘Black Horn’ and 1996’s ‘Message from Hell’, which all feature Creasy.

    Denzel Washington in 'Man on Fire'.
    Denzel Washington in ‘Man on Fire’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    The Netflix show, which has an eight-episode, straight-to-series order, will adapt ‘Man on Fire’ and ‘The Perfect Kill’.

    And it won’t directly adapt the 2004 film’s plot regardless, given that –– spoiler alert! –– Creasy dies from his injuries at the end (in the book, he fakes his death). He should enjoy (though given his dour mood, “enjoy” might be a stretch) a longer life if things go his way on Netflix.

    Who is making ‘Man on Fire’ as a series?

    Director Steven Caple Jr. on the set of 'Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.'
    Director Steven Caple Jr. on the set of ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts.’ Paramount Pictures and Skydance Present in association with Hasbro and New Republic Pictures, a di Bonaventura Pictures Production, a Tom Desanto /Don Murphy Production, a Bay Films Production.

    Already aboard before Abdul-Mateen II was Kyle Killen, who worked on the successful horror trilogy ‘Fear Street’ for the streaming service.

    Also now working on the show? Steven Caple Jr., who directed ‘Creed II’ and most recently made ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’.

    Related Article: Netflix Adapting ‘Man on Fire’ Novel into New Thriller Series

    When will ‘Man on Fire’ be on Netflix?

    Since the eight-episode drama has yet to start filming, there are no details on when the show might hit Netflix. It’ll need to track down the rest of the cast first, so our guess would be a 2025 release at the earliest.

    Denzel Washington in 'Man on Fire'.
    Denzel Washington in ‘Man on Fire’. Photo: 20th Century Fox.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Man on Fire’ TV series:

    Buy ‘Man on Fire’ Movies On Amazon

    lA0iOBZs

     

  • Best Dakota Fanning Movies

    Dakota Fanning stars in 'The Watchers'.
    Dakota Fanning stars in ‘The Watchers’.

    We’ve all watched Dakota Fanning grow up on the big screen.

    The talented actress began her career at just the age of five and quickly was starring opposite Sean Penn in the Oscar-nominated ‘I Am Sam.’ She would go on in her youth to appear in such films as ‘Man on Fire‘ opposite Denzel Washington, ‘War of the Worlds‘ opposite Tom Cruise, ‘Hide and Seek‘ opposite Robert De Niro and the big screen adaption of Dr. Seuss‘ ‘The Cat in the Hat.’

    As an adult, Fanning has continued to appear in high profile movies like ‘The Runaways‘ with Kristen Stewart, ‘Ocean’s Eight,’ with Sandra Bullock, and Quentin Tarantino‘s ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood‘ playing Squeaky Fromme, as well as having a role in ‘The Twilight Saga.’ Most recently, she reunited with her ‘Man on Fire’ co-star Denzel Washington for ‘The Equalizer 3‘.

    Her new film, ‘The Watchers‘ opens in theaters on June 7th and was written and directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, the daughter of filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan.

    In honor of the new film, Moviefone is counting down the 20 best movies of Dakota Fanning’s career, including her latest.

    Let’s begin!

    20. ‘Ocean’s Eight‘ (2018)

    A scene from 2018's 'Ocean's 8.'
    A scene from 2018’s ‘Ocean’s 8.’ Photo: Warner Bros.

    Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock), a criminal mastermind, gathers a crew of female thieves to pull off the heist of the century at New York’s annual Met Gala.

    osILPGaB02Plh0qE5pHsB1

    19. ‘The Secret Life of Bees‘ (2008)

    Set in South Carolina in 1964, this is the tale of Lily Owens (Fanning) a 14 year-old girl who is haunted by the memory of her late mother. To escape her lonely life and troubled relationship with her father, Lily flees with Rosaleen (Jennifer Hudson), her caregiver and only friend, to a South Carolina town that holds the secret to her mother’s past.

    32363

    18. ‘Charlotte’s Web‘ (2006)

    Wilbur (Dominic Scott Kay) the pig is scared of the end of the season, because he knows that come that time, he will end up on the dinner table. He hatches a plan with Charlotte (Julia Roberts), a spider that lives in his pen, to ensure that this will never happen.

    21604

    17. ‘The Twilight Saga: New Moon‘ (2009)

    Forks, Washington resident Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) is reeling from the departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), and finds comfort in her friendship with Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner), a werewolf. But before she knows it, she’s thrust into a centuries-old conflict, and her desire to be with Edward at any cost leads her to take greater and greater risks.

    36045

    16. ‘The Benefactor‘ (2015)

    A newly married couple (Fanning and Theo James) are forced to navigate the all-consuming interest of a powerful, mysterious, and possessive philanthropist.

    20073338

    15. ‘War of the Worlds‘ (2005)

    Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning in director Steven Spielberg's 'War of the Worlds.'
    (L to R) Tom Cruise and Dakota Fanning in director Steven Spielberg’s ‘War of the Worlds.’ Photo: Dreamworks/Paramount.

    Ray Ferrier (Tom Cruise) is a divorced dockworker and less-than-perfect father. Soon after his ex-wife (Miranda Otto) and her new husband drop off his teenage son (Justin Chatwin) and young daughter (Fanning) for a rare weekend visit, a strange and powerful lightning storm touches down.

    20116

    14. ‘The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 2‘ (2012)

    After the birth of Renesmee (Mackenzie Foy), the Cullens gather other vampire clans in order to protect the child from a false allegation that puts the family in front of the Volturi.

    10039936

    13. ‘The Last of Robin Hood‘ (2014)

    Errol Flynn (Kevin Kline), the swashbuckling Hollywood star and notorious ladies man, flouted convention all his life, but never more brazenly than in his last years when, swimming in vodka and unwilling to face his mortality, he undertook a liaison with an aspiring actress, Beverly Aadland (Fanning). The two had a high-flying affair that spanned the globe and was enabled by the girl’s fame-obsessed mother, Florence. It all came crashing to an end in October 1959, when events forced the relationship into the open, sparking an avalanche of publicity castigating Beverly and her mother (Susan Sarandon) – which only fed Florence’s need to stay in the spotlight.

    10130240

    12. ‘American Pastoral‘ (2016)

    Set in postwar America, a man (Ewan McGregor) watches his seemingly perfect life fall apart as his daughter’s (Fanning) new political affiliation threatens to destroy their family.

    20083296

    11. ‘Uptown Girls‘ (2003)

    Molly Gunn (Brittany Murphy), the freewheeling daughter of a deceased rock legend, is forced to get a job when her manager steals her money. As nanny for precocious Ray (Fanning), the oft ignored daughter of a music executive she learns what it means to be an adult while teaching Ray how to be a child.

    14629

     

    10. ‘The Watchers‘ (2024)

    Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    When 28-year-old artist Mina (Fanning) finds shelter after getting stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland, she unknowingly becomes trapped alongside three strangers that are watched and stalked by mysterious creatures each night.

    WxdFzgNSfpz8toKV9nUbV7 1LRw0zmC

    9. ‘The Cat in the Hat‘ (2003)

    During a rainy day, and while their mother is out, Conrad (Spencer Breslin) and Sally (Fanning), and their pet fish, are visited by the mischievous Cat in the Hat (Mike Myers). Fun soon turns to mayhem, and the siblings must figure out how to rid themselves of the maniacal Cat.

    14951

    8. ‘Push‘ (2009)

    After his father, an assassin, is brutally murdered, Nick Gant (Chris Evans) vows revenge on Division, the covert government agency that dabbles in psychic warfare and experimental drugs. Hiding in Hong Kong’s underworld, Nick assembles a band of rogue psychics dedicated to destroying Division. Together with Cassie (Fanning), a teenage clairvoyant, Nick goes in search of a missing girl and a stolen suitcase that could be the key to accomplishing their mutual goal.

    30937

    7. ‘Hide and Seek‘ (2005)

    David Callaway (Robert De Niro) tries to piece together his life in the wake of his wife’s suicide and has been left to raise his nine-year-old daughter, Emily (Fanning) on his own. David is at first amused to discover that Emily has created an imaginary friend named ‘Charlie’, but it isn’t long before ‘Charlie’ develops a sinister and violent side, and as David struggles with his daughter’s growing emotional problems, he comes to the frightening realization that ‘Charlie’ isn’t just a figment of Emily’s imagination.

    18522

    6. ‘Coraline‘ (2009)

    A young girl (Fanning) discovers an idealized parallel universe behind a secret door in her new home, unaware that it contains a sinister secret.

    26304

    5. ‘The Equalizer 3‘ (2003)

    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he’s done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.

    NytTxMylSyqD6ghRVWIFk6

    4. ‘I Am Sam‘ (2001)

    Sam (Sean Penn), a neurodivergent man, has a daughter with a homeless woman who abandons them when they leave the hospital, leaving Sam to raise Lucy (Fanning) on his own. But as Lucy grows up, Sam’s limitations as a parent start to become a problem and the authorities take her away. Sam convinces high-priced lawyer Rita (Michelle Pfeiffer) to take his case pro bono and in turn teaches her the value of love and family.

    10505

    3. ‘The Runaways‘ (2010)

    Joan Jett (Kristen Stewart) and Cherie Currie (Fanning), two rebellious teenagers from Southern California, become the frontwomen for the Runaways — the now-legendary group that paved the way for future generations of female rockers. Under the Svengali-like influence of impresario Kim Fowley (Michael Shannon), the band becomes a huge success.

    38105

    2. ‘Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood‘ (2019)

    Los Angeles, 1969. TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio), a struggling actor specializing in westerns, and stuntman Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt), his best friend, try to survive in a constantly changing movie industry. Dalton is the neighbor of the young and promising actress and model Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie), who has just married the prestigious Polish director Roman Polanski (Rafał Zawierucha).

    NUuaLCQAamVNuURlc9OMa2

    1. ‘Man on Fire‘ (2004)

    Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington in director Tony Scott's 'Man on Fire.'
    (L to R) Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington in director Tony Scott’s ‘Man on Fire.’

    Jaded ex-CIA operative John Creasy (Washington) reluctantly accepts a job as the bodyguard for a 10-year-old girl (Fanning) in Mexico City. They clash at first, but eventually bond, and when she’s kidnapped he’s consumed by fury and will stop at nothing to save her life.

    16435

  • Movie Review: ‘The Watchers’

    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘The Watchers’, which marks the feature film debut of director Ishana Night Shyamalan, daughter of M. Night Shyamalan (‘The Sixth Sense’) who is also a producer on the film, opens in theaters on June 7th.

    Based on the novel of the same name by author A.M. Shine, the movie stars Dakota Fanning (‘The Equalizer 3’), Georgina Campbell (‘Barbarian’), Olwen Fouéré (‘Tarot’), and Oliver Finnegan (‘Outlander’).

    Related Article: Dakota Fanning Talks Director Ishana Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Watchers’

    Initial Thoughts

    Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Director Ishana Night Shyamalan delivers a satisfying and entertaining supernatural thriller that shows a lot of potential for the young filmmaker, even if the movie does become predictable at times and is weighed down by the expectation of a “Shyamalan twist.” Actress Dakota Fanning gives a moody yet layered performance as the lead character and is flanked by an excellent supporting ensemble that includes Georgina Campbell and Olwen Fouéré.

    Story and Direction

    Olwen Fouere, Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan, Oliver Finnegan and Georgina Campbell on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Olwen Fouere, Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan, Oliver Finnegan and Georgina Campbell on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    The movie begins by introducing us to Mina (Dakota Fanning), a young American living in Ireland who is struggling with guilt from a personal family tragedy. Mina works in a pet store and is asked to deliver a rare bird to a sanctuary miles away. On her journey, Mina’s car breaks down in an untouched forest in western Ireland. While looking for help, Mina’s car mysteriously disappears, and she starts to have visions of things that are not there.

    As the sun goes down, Mina soon meets an older woman named Madeline (Olwen Fouéré) who warns her that if she wants to live, she must follow her into a strange building located in the woods. Mina agrees and soon meets two other strangers, Ciara (Georgina Campbell) and Daniel (Oliver Finnegan). It is explained to Mina that there are creatures in the woods known as “The Watchers,” who only come out at night and to survive they must all live together in this room, which has windows for the Watchers to observe them through.

    Reluctant at first, Mina eventually agrees to the conditions and lives with the others for months, secretly sneaking out during the day to find a way out of the woods. However, she begins to question what they know about the creatures observing them, and soon realizes that things are not as they appear. Now, it is up to Mina to discover the truth about the Watchers if she wants to ever escape the forest and overcome her own insecurities and fears.

    Dakota Fanning and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Dakota Fanning and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Ishana Night Shyamalan’s screenplay is well crafted and builds the suspense throughout. With only four main characters, the script allows time to explore but only Mina and Madeline are given true arcs, and it would have been nice to see more character development with Ciara and Daniel. A big question in the film is “who are the Watchers”? Shyamalan keeps that answer close to her vest through most of the movie, and when it is finally revealed, it’s a bit predictable and not the mind-shattering twist that you might expect.

    But Shyamalan does deliver an impressive directorial debut, with excellent shot selection between her and the cinematographer Eli Arenson. While there is only really one set, the production design also is impressive, and the scenes in the woods are moody, and well lighted even at night. As for the design of the creatures, it’s nothing we haven’t seen before, but they did work well within the context of the film. It’s also worth mentioning that the movie features a fake reality show that the characters watch on TV, which is very funny and was also written and directed by Shyamalan.

    Shyamalan Expectations

    Olwen Fouere and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Olwen Fouere and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    The problem with having the last name “Shyamalan’ is that it comes with the expectation of a wild twist ending. Of course, this is because of movies like ‘The Sixth Sense’ and ‘Split’, directed by M. Night Shyamalan, which featured shocking twist endings. Now audiences expect that from M. Night with every film he makes, and I’m afraid that the same will be expected form Ishana’s new movie. Because we as an audience now expect that type of ending from anyone named Shyamalan, it makes the twists and turns in ‘The Watchers’ seem slightly predictable. The twist still works and is satisfying and entertaining, but you’ll probably be able to see it coming. Again, this isn’t Ishana’s fault, the twist is well executed, it just doesn’t land as the big surprise that it was intended because of the audience’s expectations.

    Performances

    Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    We’ve all watched Dakota Fanning grow up on screen from her early roles in ‘I Am Sam’ and ‘Man on Fire’ to making more adult fair like ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’ and ‘The Equalizer 3’. ‘The Watchers’ marks Fanning’s first lead role as an adult and she carries the film well. Fanning plays Mina as a dark, moody and guilt-stricken young woman, who refuses to give up. The actress has some great scenes with Fouéré and overall, a good chemistry with the rest of the cast.

    For her role, Olwen Fouéré brings a lot of mystery to Madeline, which helps the third act twist. The actress, who was also recently seen in ‘Tarot’ plays the “creepy lady” role well with her distinctive signature look and brings a strong presence to the film. As for Georgina Campbell and Oliver Finnegan both give solid performances, especially Campbell, but are each shortchanged by the script. We hardly get to know who Daniel was before he came to the woods, and Ciara’s missing husband is not explored as much as it could have been.

    Final Thoughts

    Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Ishana Night Shyamalan’s directorial debut is an impressive one, even if the film is not perfect. The director creates a suspenseful mood with the help of Dakota Fanning’s captivating performance, but the supporting characters could have been developed more. While the third act twist is predictable due to the “Shyamalan Effect’, even with its predictability, the final twist is still interesting and feels like a satisfying conclusion to the movie.

    ‘The Watchers’ receives 7 out of 10 stars.

    WxdFzgNSfpz8toKV9nUbV7

    What is the plot of ‘The Watchers’?

    28-year-old artist Mina (Dakota Fanning) gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland. Upon finding shelter, she unknowingly becomes trapped alongside three strangers who are watched and stalked by mysterious creatures each night.

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Watchers’?

    • Dakota Fanning as Mina
    • Georgina Campbell as Ciara
    • Oliver Finnegan as Daniel
    • Olwen Fouéré as Madeline
    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Dakota Fanning Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Watchers’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Dakota Fanning Movies on Amazon

    1LRw0zmC

  • ‘The Watchers’ Exclusive Interview: Dakota Fanning

    SoL62JVA

    Opening in theaters on June 7th is ‘The Watchers’, which marks the feature film debut of director Ishana Night Shyamalan, daughter of M. Night Shyamalan (‘The Sixth Sense’), who is also a producer on the film.

    Based on the novel of the same name by author A.M. Shine, the movie stars Dakota Fanning (‘The Equalizer 3’), Georgina Campbell (‘Barbarian’), Olwen Fouéré (‘Tarot’), and Oliver Finnegan (‘Outlander’).

    Related Article: Director Ishana Night Shyamalan Talks ‘The Watchers’ and Shares Footage

    Dakota Fanning talks 'The Watchers'.
    Dakota Fanning talks ‘The Watchers’.

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with Dakota Fanning to talk about her work on ‘The Watchers’, her first reaction to the screenplay, collaborating with director Ishana Night Shyamalan on set, working with a bird, and the challenges of being part of a small cast.

    You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews with Fanning, Georgina Campbell and director Ishana Night Shyamalan.

    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Moviefone: To begin with, what was your first reaction to the screenplay and what were some of the aspects of this character you were excited to explore on screen?

    Dakota Fanning: I was excited to portray a character that’s at that in between in their life where they’re not super young, and they’re obviously not old, and they’re still at the beginning of their life, but you’re at that crossroads, that standstill. I felt a little like that when we were making the movie. I was in my late 20s, which was not the best time in my life. I just turned 30, and I’m like, I love it so much. Not that there was anything wrong. You just feel in between something. You know? So, I could relate to that aspect of it. When you’re a searcher. That’s what I really felt when I read this character. She’s clearly a searcher. She’s burying things from her past, and she’s looking and looking. Then I was also really excited by the mythical, fairy tale, folklore aspect of the story. It felt like it was something I hadn’t seen before. Mixing that with this suspense and a genre movie, and I was really excited by that. Ishana is just an inspiring person to talk to. She’s so full of creativity, and I was excited to be a part of her first film, and it clearly won’t be the last.

    Dakota Fanning and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Dakota Fanning and Director/Writer Ishana Shyamalan on the set of New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Jonathan Hession. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: What was your experience like collaborating with director Ishana Night Shyamalan on set?

    DF: It was great. I mean, she’s so knowledgeable about what she wants to do. She had a very clear vision always about what she was looking for. I found her collaboration with the DP Eli (Arenson) on this movie, I felt that she had a lot of ideas for the shots that were not what you would expect. We never did a master two shot. It just wasn’t traditional. It was a non-traditional approach to how she would cover scenes and a little bit unconventional. It was cool to be part of something new. She just is a great person. She has big smile on her face all the time, even on the coldest, wettest day in the forest. So, I can’t help but have that rub off on me.

    Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Can you talk about the challenges of working with a bird?

    DF: The bird was fine. Honestly, the bird gave me no problems. It did bite me one day, I think it was just trying to climb on my fingers with its beak, so it didn’t mean to. It was a very nice bird. The bird’s name was Sunshine in real life, and the bird got a lot of attention. People really doted on the bird. It was a great scene partner. The bird was happy.

    Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    MF: Finally, can you talk about the benefits of being part of a small cast, and what was it like working with your co-stars Georgina Campbell, Olwen Fouéré and Oliver Finnegan?

    DF: Oh, it was so great. I mean, it’s such an interesting group, the four of us. Everybody has a different age, a different time in our lives. So, I think it was a cool group. Talk about inspiring. Olwen is by far the most physically capable one out of all of us. She’s like, “I want to do the fights.” We’re like, “Olwen, relax.” But she’s so fun to be around and such a gentle person. Georgina’s awesome, and Oliver’s awesome. Everyone was just cool. It was just us figuring it out, and we had a great time together.

    WxdFzgNSfpz8toKV9nUbV7

    What is the plot of ‘The Watchers’?

    28-year-old artist Mina (Dakota Fanning) gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland. Upon finding shelter, she unknowingly becomes trapped alongside three strangers who are watched and stalked by mysterious creatures each night.

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Watchers’?

    • Dakota Fanning as Mina
    • Georgina Campbell as Ciara
    • Oliver Finnegan as Daniel
    • Olwen Fouéré as Madeline
    Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers', a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara, Dakota Fanning as Mina, Oliver Finnegan as Daniel and Olwen Fouere as Madeline in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers’, a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Dakota Fanning Movies:

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Watchers’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Dakota Fanning Movies on Amazon

  • Ishana Night Shyamalan Shares Footage from ‘The Watchers’

    'The Watchers' director Ishana Night Shyamalan at CinemaCon 2024.
    ‘The Watchers’ director Ishana Night Shyamalan at CinemaCon 2024. Photo: Warner Bros.

    Scheduled to open in theaters on June 14th is the new supernatural thriller ‘The Watchers,’ which is based on the novel of the same name by author A.M. Shine and was produced by acclaimed filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan (‘Unbreakable’) and directed by his daughter, Ishana Night Shyamala (‘Servant’).

    Moviefone recently had the pleasure of attending an event called “Summer of Shyamalan,” which included the screening of the new trailer from M. Night Shyamalan’s ‘Trap,’ as well as 10 minutes of footage from first time feature film director Ishana Night Shyamalan’s ‘The Watchers.’

    Related Article: Director M. Night Shyamalan Talks ‘Trap’ Trailer and Explains New Movie

    What Footage Did We See?

    Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Oliver Finnegan as Daniel, Olwen Fouere as Madeline, Dakota Fanning as Mina and Georgina Campbell as Ciara in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures.

    The screening began with a sequence from the film that features Dakota Fanning’s Mina traveling in a car with her pet bird, Darwin. When Mina comes across a “Point of No Return” sign, her car breaks down and she begins walking in through looking for help. Mina soon begins lost and cannot find her way back to the car. After she is attacked by a group of bats, Mina sees someone running through the woods and she follows.

    Mina discovers an older woman standing in front of a mysterious door in the woods. The woman says, “If you want to live, you’ll have to run.” Mina runs into the doorway and is lead to a strange room where she is locked in with the woman and two other strangers. It is explained to Mina that she will be safe if she stays in the room because the Watchers can’t come in.

    Mina notices a large window in the room and suddenly is told to get in a line with the other strangers to meet the Watchers. The sequence ends with a character saying, “Welcome to the show.” The scene was followed by a screening of the new trailer, which was released today and you can watch below.

    Georgina Campbell as Ciara and Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller 'The Watchers,' a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
    (L to R) Georgina Campbell as Ciara and Dakota Fanning as Mina in New Line Cinema’s and Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy thriller ‘The Watchers,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Courtesy Warner Bros. Pictures.

    What did Ishana Night Shyamalan say about ‘The Watchers’?

    'The Watchers' director Ishana Night Shyamalan at CinemaCon 2024.
    ‘The Watchers’ director Ishana Night Shyamalan at CinemaCon 2024. Photo: Warner Bros.

    After the screening, we had a chance to speak exclusively with writer and director Ishana Night Shyamalan about her work on ‘The Watchers’.

    Moviefone: To begin with, can you talk about adapting the novel and the themes you wanted to explore with this movie?

    Ishana Night Shyamalan: I think so many things. That was something I was very considerate about when entering. Now I know it’s an incredible amount of work and takes a lot of endurance and you lose yourself in so many ways. My dad gave me this advice, he’s like, “Look for the piece that has an unending well for you. That sort of feels like you can never stop thinking about it, and you go deeper and deeper.” This book came to me and felt like it had that. It had the fantasy bend that I’m interested in and a very beautiful horror structure to it, and characters that I felt like could be painted and played with. So, it just had those elements and it felt also very representative of me and what I was dealing with now.

    MF: Obviously, with your last name, audiences will be expecting a certain type of movie from you. Did you embrace that or deliberately try to invert expectations?

    INS: Absolutely. I think I’ve always been very acutely aware of at least in my mind, what the perception will be and what the expectations are. I was really interested in playing with those expectations. So, starting with something that felt expected and then expanding into something that’s very me and kind of like an indication of what I want to do. So, my hope is that it does that where it satisfies the feeling that you come in wanting, but then kind of takes you somewhere else a bit.

    MF: Finally, did you seek advice from your dad while making the movie, or did you want to do it on your own?

    INS: He’s been just the most incredible mentor throughout this process. He cares so much, which can be very overwhelming for me at moments. I think there’s constantly an ego thing in it for me where I’m like, “I want to do this on my own. I don’t want to be tethered to your way of thinking.” That’s just me being an egotistical young person. So, I constantly am trying to honor the opportunity I’ve been given. I was born in this life where I have access to an incredible artist here. So, it’s just a wonderful, wonderful thing. I hope I’ve made him proud in the process.

    When Will ‘The Watchers’ Be in Theaters?

    ‘The Watchers’ is scheduled for release on June 14th.

    WxdFzgNSfpz8toKV9nUbV7

    What is the plot of ‘The Watchers’?

    28-year-old artist Mina (Dakota Fanning) gets stranded in an expansive, untouched forest in western Ireland. Upon finding shelter, she unknowingly becomes trapped alongside three strangers who are watched and stalked by mysterious creatures each night.

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Watchers’?

    Writer/director M. Night Shyamalan of 'Trap' and writer/director Ishana Shyamalan of 'The Watchers' attend the "Summer of Shyamalan" event at Soho House on April 16, 2024 in West Hollywood, California.
    (L to R) Writer/director M. Night Shyamalan of ‘Trap’ and writer/director Ishana Shyamalan of ‘The Watchers’ attend the “Summer of Shyamalan” event at Soho House on April 16, 2024 in West Hollywood, California. Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Getty Images for Warner Bros.

    Other M. Night Shyamalan Movies:

    Buy M. Night Shyamalan Movies on Amazon

    1LRw0zmC

  • Dakota Fanning to Star in Horror Thriller ‘Vicious’

    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    Preview:

    • Dakota Fanning will star in new horror movie ‘Vicious’.
    • ‘The Strangers’ Bryan Bertino is writing and directing.
    • The movie is scheduled for release in August next year.

    Dakota Fanning certainly seems to be in a horror mood of late. She already has the Ishana Night Shyamalan thriller ‘The Watchers’ headed to screens in June, and now, via Variety, the actor will lead the cast of new chiller ‘Vicious’.

    WxdFzgNSfpz8toKV9nUbV7

    What’s the story of ‘Vicious’?

    Fanning will star as a young woman who is left a strange present by a late-night visitor, and quickly realizes she is fighting for her life after slipping down a disturbing rabbit hole contained inside the gift.

    Which all makes it sound like a valuable lesson in not accepting gifts from strangers, something every parent drills into their child and, if we’re honest, has been a truth since the days of the Trojan Horse.

    Related Article: 20 Best Dakota Fanning Movies of All Time!

    Who is making ‘Vicious’?

    2008's 'The Strangers.'
    2008’s ‘The Strangers.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

    The new movie comes from Bryan Bertino, who broke out writing and directing sleeper horror hit ‘The Strangers’ in 2008, which featured other people terrorized in their house by unexpected visitors.

    Since then, he has gone on to make 2014’s ‘Mockingbird,’ 2016’s ‘The Monster’ and 2020’s ‘The Dark and the Wicked’. He also wrote and produced a ‘Strangers’ sequel, ‘The Strangers: Prey at Night’ in 2018.

    He has had other projects in development, but it appears ‘Vicious’ is jumping to the head of the queue.

    ‘Vicious’ comes from Paramount Pictures, which has seen success with horror of late, including 2022’s ‘Smile’, which has a sequel on the way this October (so if you see random standing around with creepy grins, you know the promotional campaign has ramped up again) and ‘Pet Sematary: Bloodlines’, which while the prequel to the Stephen King story didn’t get great reviews, it did do well for streaming service Paramount+.

    What else has Dakota Fanning worked on?

    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley.'
    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in ‘Ripley.’ Photo: Philippe Antonello/Netflix © 2023.

    In addition to ‘The Watchers’, Fanning will be seen in the Netflix adaptation of ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’, titled simply ‘Ripley’ (out on April 4th) and ‘The Perfect Couple’, which stars Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber, and will also be on the streaming service, but has yet to announce a date.

    And on top of that, she’s busy as a producer through her Llewellyn Pictures company. Projects include a four-part documentary series called ‘Mastermind’ for Hulu, which chronicles the experience of the legendary Dr. Ann Burgess and her trajectory from nurse to criminal profiler for the FBI, an adaptation of ‘Paris: The Memoir’, and TV series ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles’, which will star Fanning’s sister Elle.

    When will ‘Vicious’ be in theaters?

    Paramount has scheduled ‘Vicious’ for an August 8th, 2025 release.

    Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington on the set of 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington on the set of ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Cristiiano Montesi.

    Other Dakota Fanning Movies:

    Buy Dakota Fanning Movies on Amazon

    mdvtiCC1

  • Andrew Scott Stars in the ‘Ripley’ Series Teaser

    Preview:

    • The first ‘Ripley’ teaser is online.
    • Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning and Johnny Flynn star.
    • The new series lands on Netflix in April.

    Given the proliferation of spin-offs and prequels, you might be forgiven, upon seeing the title ‘Ripley’, that the new Netflix series focuses on the earlier days (or somehow, through science fiction trickery, continues the story) of Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley from the ‘Alien’ movies.

    But from a first look at the teaser for the show, it all becomes clear: instead, what we have is the latest adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 novel ‘The Talented Mr. Ripley’.

    This one comes from Steven Zaillian, who has quite the resume –– a regular collaborator of Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg and Martin Scorsese, he’s also an accomplished filmmaker in his own right, having directed the likes of ‘Searching for Bobby Fischer’ and re-written many scripts in his time.

    The story has, of course, already been brought famously to screens by Anthony Minghella in the 1999 film named for the novel, starring Matt Damon, Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow, but this new version appears to take inspiration from other books as well the main ‘Ripley’ tome.

    What’s the story of ‘Ripley’?

    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley.'
    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in ‘Ripley.’ Photo: Philippe Antonello/Netflix © 2023.

    Tom Ripley (Andrew Scott) is a grifter scraping by in early 1960s New York. When he’s hired by a wealthy man to travel to Italy to try to convince his vagabond son (Johnny Flynn’s Dickie Greenleaf) to return home, Tom’s acceptance of the job is the first step into a complex life of deceit, fraud and murder.

    Zaillian writes and directs all eight episodes, and from the looks of the first teaser, has shot the whole thing in crisp monochrome to give it some standout style.

    Related Article: Who Will Be Nominated for an Oscar at this Year’s Academy Awards?

    Who else is in ‘Ripley’?

    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley.'
    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in ‘Ripley.’ Photo Credit: Lorenzo Sisti/NETFLIX.

    The cast for the show also includes Dakota Fanning, Elliot Sumner, Maurizio Lombardi, Margherita Buy and John Malkovich.

    Scott, who is garnering plenty of attention thanks to superb work in the likes of ‘All of Us Strangers’, looks set to receive more acclaim for this. And the teaser spotlights an excellent ensemble around him.

    When will ‘Ripley’ be on our screens?

    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley.'
    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in ‘Ripley.’ Photo: Philippe Antonello/Netflix © 2023.

    All eight episodes of ‘Ripley’ are scheduled to arrive on Netflix on April 4th. If you ask us, given his less-than-truthful nature, April 1st might have made sense, but that doesn’t fit the streamer’s release policy.

    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in 'Ripley.'
    Andrew Scott as Tom Ripley in ‘Ripley.’ Photo: Philippe Antonello/Netflix © 2023.

    Movies Similar to ‘Ripley’:

    Buy Andrew Scott Movies On Amazon

     

  • Where To Watch Antoine Fuqua’s ‘The Equalizer 3’

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer‘ started out as a 1980s TV series by Michael Sload and Richard Lindhelm. Later, director Antoine Fuqua would adapt the series into a movie, with Denzel Washington starring as Robert McCall.

    The last time we saw Robert McCall was in ‘The Equalizer 2,’ facing off against former DIA colleagues Dave York (Pedro Pascal), Kovak, Ari, and Resnik in the midst of a hurricane. McCall realized that he could have walked down the same path of crime but instead chose forgiveness. In the most recent film, Robert McCall has moved to Southern Italy in an attempt to leave his past behind.

    Where Can I Watch ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ was released domestically on September 1, 2023, and is available in standard formats as well as in IMAX. Currently, the movie is still playing in theaters if you want a chance to experience it on the big screen. ‘The Equalizer 3’ has a total runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Equalizer 3’ Movie Showtimes

    Watch the official trailer for ‘The Equalizer 3’ below:

    JaS2JEvT

    The movie was released on digital on October 6 and is available for purchase for $24.99 or rent for $19.99 on platforms such as Prime Video, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube, and Google Play. No date has been released as to when the movie will arrive on streaming.

    Where to Watch: ‘The Equalizer 3’ Online

    Fans can also look forward to 4K UHD, Blu-Ray, and DVD release for the film. While no dates have been announced for the Blu-Ray/DVD release, retailers such as Best Buy and Amazon have the movie listed for pre-order. There will be a steelbook edition as a Best Buy exclusive. Bonus features for the physical release include:

    • Blood Brothers – The collaboration of Denzel Washington and Antoine Fuqua.
    • Call To Action
    • Robert McCall: A Man of the People
    • Denzel and Dakota: A Reunion
    • Postcards From The Amalfi Coast
    • Jacob Banks “Monster” Lyric Video

    Buy ‘The Equalizer 3’ On Amazon

    Watch The First 10 Minutes Of The Film

    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo by: Stefano Montesi.

    Although the movie was just released on September 1st, it is already available on digital. Timed with the digital release, the first ten minutes of the film is available for free on IGN’s website. Opening on a Sicilian vineyard, where McCall has already left a path of dead henchmen along the path of the driveway and inside the building. As Lorenzo Vitale ventures inside, he finds Robert sitting calmly on a chair at gunpoint.

    “You took something that didn’t belong to you, I’m here to take it back,” McCall says before he hops into action, effortlessly taking down everyone in the room. Critics and audiences reacted positively to the film, garnering it a 75% critics score and a 94% audience score.

    Related Article: Denzel Washington Triumphantly Returns as Robert McCall in ‘The Equalizer 3’

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ official synopsis:

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    “Since giving up his life as a government assassin, Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) has struggled to reconcile the horrific things he’s done in the past and finds a strange solace in serving justice on behalf of the oppressed. Finding himself surprisingly at home in Southern Italy, he discovers his new friends are under the control of local crime bosses. As events turn deadly, McCall knows what he has to do: become his friends’ protector by taking on the mafia.”

    Who Is In The Cast of ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.
    Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Cristiiano Montesi.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Equalizer 3:’

    To watch our exclusive interview with Antoine Fuqua, as well as interviews with Denzel Washington and Dakota Fanning about ‘The Equalizer 3,’ please click on the video player below.

    mdvtiCC1

  • Movie Review: ‘The Equalizer 3’

    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo by: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer 3,’ which is the third chapter of ‘The Equalizer’ movie franchise and was originally based on the 1980’s TV series of the same name, opens in theaters on September 1st and is once again directed by Antoine Fuqua (‘The Magnificent Seven,’ ‘Olympus Has Fallen’).

    What is the plot of ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) moves to Southern Italy to escape from his past, but later discovers that his new friends are under the control of the Sicilian Mafia. With the help of a young CIA agent (Dakota Fanning), Robert unleashes his past self to protect his new friends.

    NytTxMylSyqD6ghRVWIFk6

    Who is in the cast of ‘The Equalizer 3’?

    Initial Thoughts

    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo by: Stefano Montesi.

    Against all odds ‘The Equalizer’ franchise has become one of the most reliable action series in cinema, right up there with the ‘John Wick’ movies, and the third chapter does not disappoint. Director Antoine Fuqua adds a new tone by taking Robert McCall’s story to Italy, which breathes fresh life into the franchise without ever betraying the spirit of the popular protagonist. Denzel Washington has truly created one of his most memorable characters with McCall, and has unforgettable onscreen chemistry with co-star Dakota Fanning, reuniting with the actress for the first time since their work on the 2004 now-classic ‘Man on Fire.’

    Story and Direction

    Denzel Washington and Director Antoine Fuqua between takes while filming in the Amalfi Coast on the set of Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Denzel Washington and Director Antoine Fuqua between takes while filming in the Amalfi Coast on the set of Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo by: Stefano Montesi.

    The original ‘The Equalizer’ loosely adapted the 80’s TV series by introducing us to Robert McCall (Denzel Washington), a retired CIA operative trying to live a quiet life in Boston. When outside forces threaten the small community he has created, McCall strikes back raining fire and vengeance down upon them. By the end of the first film, McCall has decided to put his skills to use helping those that can’t help themselves, which was the basic plot of the original TV series.

    ‘The Equalizer 2’ saw McCall in Boston making good on his promise from the first film and helping the unfortunate. But when his close friend and former CIA colleague Susan Plummer (Melissa Leo) is murdered by McCall’s former partner Dave York (Pedro Pascal), McCall releases a personal vendetta on York and his former team members.

    In ‘The Equalizer 3,’ we meet an older McCall, tired from his revenge-for-hire business, on a mission in Italy to right another wrong for an American family that lost their savings to an international gangster with terrorist ties. After an injury, McCall is taken to a small Italian town and nursed back to health by a local doctor named Enzo (Remo Girone). McCall soon comes to love the town and the people in it, including a waitress named Aminah (Gaia Scodellaro), who McCall has affection for. But when the town and its people are threatened by the same family of mobsters that McCall was trying to stop in the first place, he vows to take them all down one by one to save the town and protect its people. In order to do that, he enlists the help of a CIA agent named Emma Collins (Dakota Fanning), who unbeknownst to her, has a secret connection to McCall in her past.

    Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua and on the set of ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Cristiiano Montesi.

    Related Article: Director Antoine Fuqua Talks ‘The Equalizer 3’

    As action-packed as ‘The Equalizer’ franchise is, and as much as we all love seeing Denzel Washington systematically killing bad guys, the series is really a character study, and that has never been more apparent than in ‘Equalizer 3.’ By putting McCall in a new and foreign setting to him, it allows director Antoine Fuqua to slow the action just a bit and really explore what years of violence has done to this man that we’ve grown to love over the course of the previous films. It also doesn’t hurt that the character is portrayed by one of the most beloved actors of all time, who brings all that love and grace with him to the role, but more on that in a minute.

    Fuqua wisely opens the movie with a fantastic action sequence, which was featured in the trailer and sets the pace for the film before slowing it down to explore McCall’s state of mind to great effect. While some might just be waiting for the next action sequence, they will end up captivated by McCall’s journey, meeting the town’s people and watching him find a feeling of home in this town, which will give him his motivation for the explosive second half of the film.

    There is a comparison to be made between Fuqua and Washington’s collaborations and those of Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro. In addition to ‘The Equalizer’ franchise, Fuqua and Washington have made together the Oscar-winning ‘Training Day’ and the western remake ‘The Magnificent Seven.’ The director and actor clearly have a strong shorthand together that works, as it does here again with this film.

    JaS2JEvT

    Denzel’s Performance

    Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) watches Vincent crawl down his stairs in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) watches Vincent crawl down his stairs in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    There is no arguing that Denzel Washington is one of the greatest screen actors of all time. His body of work speaks volumes, so I won’t bother listing them all as everyone knows his resume. But in this modern age of superhero movies, a serious actor like Denzel could easily have slipped away from making box office hits but instead has embraced a franchise based on an old TV show and has turned McCall into his own version of a modern day superhero by infusing the character with his real-life integrity and gravitas. We root for McCall because we love Denzel, and we love seeing him … as the actor has said publicly, “get the guys we can’t get.”

    Washington takes the opportunity in ‘Equalizer 3,’ to really explore his character’s emotions in an authentic way that the franchise has not had a chance to do previously, while never really jeopardizing the pace or the action. After four films together Washington clearly trusts Fuqua, and it shows in his performance in this movie, as Robert McCall has truly become one of Washington’s signature characters.

    ‘Man on Fire’ Reunion

    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Emma (Dakota Fanning) reports to Frank what is happening in Italy in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    But one of the best parts of ‘The Equalizer 3’ is seeing the ‘Man on Fire’ reunion between actress Dakota Fanning and Washington. ‘Man on Fire’ is a 2004 Tony Scott classic, and one of the best films of Washington’s long and respected career. Fanning starred opposite Washington when she was just 10 years old and the two actor’s chemistry together in that movie was unforgettable … seriously, you should watch it if you haven’t! So, seeing Dakota and Denzel together again was a real treat, and their chemistry together is as good now as it ever was. Washington clearly has a lot of affection for Fanning, and that plays well with their character’s secret connection. Fanning is also believable as a young CIA agent, and the movie benefits from her presence.

    Misfires

    Vincent (Andrea Scarduzio, right) comes to the church to see his brother Marco (Andrea Dodero) in Columbia Pictures 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Vincent (Andrea Scarduzio, right) comes to the church to see his brother Marco (Andrea Dodero) in Columbia Pictures ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    While the movie is thoroughly enjoyable, both through its action-sequences and its performances, it does lag a bit in the first act, after the cold open action scene. The scenes are still enjoyable, and it establishes McCall’s connection to his new community for what is to come, but some viewers looking for non-stop action, may find these sequences tedious.

    The movie also lacks any original villains, and instead gives us generic Italian mafia bad guys. The first film at least established a ‘Die Hard’ Hans Gruber-type villain in Marton Csokas’ assassin Nicolai Itchenko, and the second movie had a personal antagonist in Pedro Pascal’s Dave York. In ‘The Equalizer 3’ we are given Andrea Scarduzio’s Vincent Quaranta, a spoiled narcissist with delusions of grandeur, who could easily be swapped into any James Bond or John Wick movie as the generic villain and has no real emotional to the story.

    Will there be an ‘Equalizer 4’?

    Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington on the set of 'The Equalizer 3.'
    (L to R) Dakota Fanning and Denzel Washington on the set of ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Cristiiano Montesi.

    That’s hard to say, but neither Fuqua or Washington have said they wouldn’t be interested, and the movie certainly leaves the possibility for more stories featuring Washington’s version of Robert McCall. And now that Fanning’s Emma Collins has been established, she could make a great ally for McCall moving forward.

    Also, director Antoine Fuqua has mentioned during the press tour for ‘The Equalizer 3’ that he has considered doing an ‘Equalizer’ prequel. He’s considered both the idea of de-aging Washington, similar to what was done with Harrison Ford for some scenes in ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,’ as well as the idea of casting Washington’s own son, John David Washington (‘Tenet’) as a young McCall.

    Final Thoughts

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ is a worthy addition to the extremely enjoyable ‘Equalizer’ franchise and Denzel Washington and director Antoine Fuqua have recaptured the magic of the previous films while expanding on the emotional journey of the title character. Dakota Fanning is a delightful addition to the franchise, and seeing her reunite with Washington is a true treat for fans of the classic ‘Man on Fire.’

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ receives 8 out of 10 stars.

    Denzel Washington in 'The Equalizer 3.'
    Denzel Washington in ‘The Equalizer 3.’ Photo: Stefano Montesi.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘The Equalizer 3:’

    Buy Tickets: ‘The Equalizer 3’ Movie Showtimes

    Buy Denzel Washington Movies On Amazon

    ‘The Equalizer 3’ is produced by Escape Artists, Columbia Pictures, Fuqua Films, and Eagle Pictures, and is scheduled for release on September 1st.