‘Law Abiding Citizen’ With Bill Simmons, Van Lathan, and Craig Horlbeck
Summary
The Rewatchables discuss the 2009 vigilante film Law Abiding Citizen, praising its brutal, 1970s-style revenge plot while criticizing its Hollywood-safe ending. The hosts debate whether the film should have ended with the protagonist’s death or a more ambiguous twist, arguing that the current resolution undermines the character’s dark arc. They also analyze the performances of Gerard Butler and Jamie Foxx, noting Foxx’s lack of screen presence and Butler’s potential as a leading man.
Topics discussed
Intro, camera issues, and Angry Orchard ad
Discussion on vigilante movie tropes and evolution
Critique of the film's ending and script structure
Analysis of Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler's careers
Jamie Foxx's recent work and Diddy feud
Director Gary Gray and the lack of modern stars
Script quality, audience reaction, and Tremphaya ad
Retrospective on the trial and lethal injection scenes
The pufferfish toxin and Clyde's interrogation tactics
Favorite scenes: cell phone explosion and drone gun
Torture scene and idea for fake true crime docs
Role swap between Foxx and Butler
Gerard Butler's physique and Leslie Bibb's role
Final meal details and Entourage references
Alternative titles and vigilante body counts
Butch's Girlfriend Award and Clyde's efficiency
Death Wish Award and Philadelphia references
Vincent Chase Award and Darby's performance
Gerard Butler as James Bond thought experiment
Butler's law degree and the Nomos identity
Tom Cruise casting and basketball scene ideas
Picking nets and security plot holes
Sequel rumors and alternative ending ideas
Arlington Road comparison and feature choices
Rooting for Clyde and closing remarks
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