Impressive vigilante actioner!

Vigilante action thrillers are common occurrences in contemporary Hollywood. Films such as The Punisher have utilised the concept of revenge for an interesting actioner. Jodie Foster in The Brave One toyed with the concept of an innocent civilian fulfilling the duties of a stereotypical vigilante hero. Hero Wanted is a creditably gritty, exciting revenge flick unlike any of its genre forerunners. This is a tragically overlooked and underrated film featuring several great actors and a realistic portrayal of man's darker side. It's rare indeed for a movie to probe that area of human nature with this level of established veracity and pragmatism in the tone. The filmmakers deeply delve into man's desire for their 15 minutes of fame, and the consequences of "being a hero". However, in spite of exploring these deep themes so effectively...the clichés sporadically break through. On the whole, things feel quite formulaic and occasionally predictable. But there is enough taut action and proficient filmmaking on exhibition to bestow a wholly entertaining experience.

Liam Case (Gooding Jr.) is a despondent garbage man who lost his wife several years ago in a tragic car accident. Now he's an alcoholic sincerely depressed with his insignificant existence. However his life finds further meaning when he witnesses a flaming car wreck unfold. Liam instinctively dives into the situation and rescues a little girl who was trapped in the flames. He subsequently becomes a hero and the city loves him. Following his short period in the spotlight, people move on and forget his heroic act. He therefore returns to his former depressive existence. His heroic instincts are kicked back into action again, however, when he's inside a bank during an armed robbery. The attendant, who he has a crush on, is shot by the robbers and she falls into a coma. Liam decides to search for the gang of robbers and dispense justice on them.

Hero Wanted bypassed a worldwide cinematical release...instead in most countries it went straight to DVD. In my opinion the film is a sleeper hit. The technical aspect of the film in particular never feels amateurish. The early action sequences are highly impressive: short, tight, explosive and exciting. Even better, the typical shaky cam and quick cutting isn't heavily utilised. The concluding action scene exercises clever dolly shots and wide angles to tell the story. For the most part, the editing is above average. On top of this, pulse-pounding music and a booming sound mix to keep an audience engaged. The action is also grounded in realism and credibility: guns are reloaded, people bleed, and no-one is invincible. The strong graphic violence packs an overwhelming wallop.

With such a competent team behind the camera, the colossal script failings are unfortunate. The script is repeatedly dragged back to traditional action movie hackneyed themes and theatrical devices. The final 30 minutes grow increasingly preposterous as well. Moreover, the out of place ending proves quite disappointing. It seems too happy and predictable. Characters are treated with too much sentimentality and it's clear the filmmakers were pushing for a "feel good" kind of ending with a smidgen of darkness to its tone. The plot frequently meanders as well with supporting characters introduced for the sake of a violent death. The film's twist proves quite shocking and effective...however it just isn't executed with any style. Much of the dialogue that occasionally sounds intelligent is marred by the contrived profanity.

Cuba Gooding Jr. is a convincing protagonist. He successfully nails the different facets of his character: from a raging alcoholic to a worried man trying to keep everything under control.
Ray Liotta seems quite underused, but he appears determined. The rest of the cast are all equally impressive. Thomas Flanagan's villain is particularly effective and sinister when it's called for.

Overall, Hero Wanted may not be the best vigilante movie ever made or a masterpiece either. Nevertheless, this flick really surprised me. It features a stellar cast, top notch production values and technical proficiency especially during the intense action sequences. It will keep you entertained.

6.9/10