00s Movie Review - Death Sentence

Director: James Wan
Genre: Drama/ Thriller/ Crime
Runtime: 110 minutes
Year: 2007
Starring: Kevin Bacon, Garrett Hedlund, Kelly Preston, Jordan Garrett, Stuart Lafferty, Aisha Tyler, John Goodman, Matt O’Leary, Leigh Wannell

Description: Nick Hume (Kevin Bacon) is a mild-mannered executive with a perfect life, until one gruesome night he witnesses something that changes him forever. Transformed by grief, Hume eventually comes to the disturbing conclusion that no length is too great when protecting his family.

Review: Nick Hume is a hard-working man who lives with his wife Hellen and two sons Lucas and Brendan. One evening, Nick and Brendan are on their way home after attending an ice hockey game. The two stop at a gas station, but a robbery takes place and Brendan is attacked. He is taken to the hospital, where Brendan dies. Nick, Helen and Lucas are overcome with grief, but it all gets worse when it turns out that the culprit will only spend a short time behind bars. Nick changes his statement, making sure that the killer is back on the street. Nick takes matter in his own hands. But before he knows it, he is involved in a war between him and the gang members that cost Brendan his life.
“Death Sentence” is based on a book by author Briand Garfield. Revenge is the theme here. James Wan directed the film. Wan knows how to keep the tension strong and to present us with some violent scenes. The transformation of Nick goes a bit fast and the gang members are portrayed very standard.
Kevin Bacon plays Nick. Because of him, “Death Sentence” is a movie that rises above average and his role is intense and realistic.
The story might be a bit predictable here and there, but because of the great performance by Bacon, “Death Sentence” and the constant tension, it’s a movie worth watching.

Rating: 3,5 / 5