As I was reading some of the critiques of the newly released movie called “The Equalizer” (starring Denzel Washington), I quickly found myself reflecting on several of the quotes related to the character in the movie. One write-up describes him as a man who “has put his mysterious past behind him and has dedicated himself to beginning a new, quiet life,” but when he sees what the ultra-violent gangsters have done to a young girl, “he can’t stand idly by” and “has to help her.” Another blurb portrays him as a “former black ops commando who faked his death for a quiet life,” but “comes out of his self-imposed retirement” to rescue a young girl. Yet another article depicts the character as “a retired intelligence officer who helps people in trouble.”
Regardless of the accuracy of these descriptions, what I like most is that he represents a “knight without armour, the rescuer of the downtrodden” who “[serves] vengeance against anyone who would brutalize the helpless,” and who’s “desire for justice [is] reawakened.” “If someone has a problem, if the odds are stacked against them, if they have nowhere else to turn, [he] will help.”
Consider how the conglomerates around the world constantly take advantage of so many folks, and when called to task on matters, utilize their money, power, and influence to quash any resistance or backlash against their strong-arm tactics. Then there are the corrupt and self-seeking politicians and other officials who are bought out by representatives of the conglomerates to close their eyes to the evil perpetrated on so many in our society.
Now imagine an individual with the traits outlined earlier: someone who could step in and right the wrongs committed against those who have no power and who must submit themselves to the whims, desires, and deceitful maneuvers of these entities. An individual that would act on our behalf to ensure that justice is served. Imagine having access to a real-life equalizer!
Many would say that this is nothing but a pipe-dream and wishful thinking. Others would say that it is impossible because those in power would never permit it. Maybe they are right, maybe they are wrong. I say, why are these folks putting a damper on a positive line of thought?! My slant on it is actually quite simple and straight forward: We need people like this to keep the powerful in check! If this idea is unrealistic on my part: Blame it on fast foods!
- B. J. T. Pepin