Gerard Butler is experiencing a resurgence as his film Law Abiding Citizen climbs the streaming charts, now positioned at number 5 on Netflix. Released on October 16, 2009, this revenge thriller is gaining renewed attention, showcasing Butler’s portrayal of Clyde Shelton, a grieving father seeking justice after the brutal murder of his family.
The film has found itself in competition with popular titles such as A House of Dynamite and The Perfect Neighbor. Its rising popularity highlights the film’s appeal, suggesting that audiences are finding it to be a compelling option for rewatching. Law Abiding Citizen follows Shelton as he confronts a legal system that he believes has failed him when a prosecutor, Nick Rice, portrayed by Jamie Foxx, makes a controversial plea deal with one of the killers.
Critical Reception and Box Office Performance
Despite mixed reviews upon its initial release, where it earned a 26% rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes compared to a much higher 75% from audiences, the film has proven to be a financial success. It grossed $127.9 million worldwide against a production budget of $53 million. Directed by F. Gary Gray, known for his work on The Fate of the Furious and The Italian Job, the film features a script by Kurt Wimmer, a writer recognized for his contributions to action films such as Point Break and Salt.
The ensemble cast also includes notable performances from Bruce McGill as Jonas Cantrell, Colm Meaney as Detective Dunnigan, and Leslie Bibb as Sarah Lowell, further adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Future Projects for Gerard Butler
Looking ahead, Butler will reprise his role as Big Nick in the upcoming third installment of the Den of Thieves franchise. Co-star O’Shea Jackson Jr. hinted that filming could commence in March 2024. Writer and director Christian Gudegast confirmed that the project is well-prepared, stating, “Den 3 is all ready to go. It’s all outlined.”
As audiences flock to Law Abiding Citizen on streaming platforms, Butler’s diverse career continues to evolve. The film’s newfound momentum exemplifies how older titles can find new life and success in the digital age.
Law Abiding Citizen is currently available for streaming on Netflix, providing viewers with a thrilling experience that resonates with contemporary discussions about justice and morality.
