The Eastman Dilemma

Death Wish

A New York City architect becomes a one-man vigilante squad after his wife is murdered by street punks.

6.9

Where to Stream

Madison
TAKES

A New York City architect becomes a one-man vigilante squad after his wife is murdered by street punks. In self-defense, the vengeful man kills muggers on the mean streets after dark.
Death Wish featuring Charles Bronson and Hope Lange is streaming on Paramount+, streaming with subscription on Cinemax (Via Prime Video), available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, and 4 others. It’s an action & adventure and drama movie with a better than average IMDb audience rating of 6.9 (44,792 votes).

Director: Michael Winner
Writers: Brian Garfield • Wendell Mayes • Gerald Wilson
Stars: Charles Bronson • Hope Lange • Vincent Gardenia
1h33m
18+ (R)
1974
Drama
Guns, Law Enforcement
5/5 - (1 vote)

Madison Takes

Released in the 1970s, “Death Wish” reflects the cultural and social climate of the time, especially in urban America, where crime rates were high, and public trust in institutions was low. The film resonates with themes of liberty and freedom in a society grappling with issues of personal safety, civil rights, and government accountability.

While “Death Wish” can be seen as a representation of liberty and freedom through its themes of self-defense and individual autonomy, it’s worth noting that the film is also controversial for its depiction of violence and its implications about justice. As such, it can be viewed through multiple lenses—both as an exploration of the limits of personal freedom and a critique of the consequences when those limits are pushed too far.

Madison Motion

Fight for Your Rights

Legislative Action: Encourage viewers to learn about and support legislation that aims to improve police response times and effectiveness, ensuring that justice is timely and equitable, thereby reducing the perceived need for vigilante justice.

Producer Circle Film Library

Film collections curated by free speech advocate thought leaders.