Equalizer 3: An Assassin’s Italian Holiday
I was a fan of the original tv series The Equalizer during the 80s. About an elite gentleman CIA assassin who tries to atone for all the terrible things he did in the service, by helping people get out of trouble. He uses his skills and experience serving justice to those in need, especially the poor and helpless. A literal equalizer for those who cannot get help from normal means. A new age Robin Hood or even more violent Batman. Something we all wish existed in real life.
Antoine Fuqua and Denzel Washington have a modern remake that is updated and way more violent. True revenge flicks. The first movie was about the Russian Mafia, the 2nd one he takes down some of his former CIA colleagues turned renegade. But the 3rd edition is him taking on the Camora, one of the most vicious mafia groups in Italy.
He ends up injured from a mission and winds up in a small town Altamonte in Sicily. While healing there, he befriends many of the locals and becomes one of the community. He eventually becomes their protector from the powerful mafia lord terrorizing the town.
What I loved about it was the beautiful landscapes of this historical town. The Mediterranean seascapes, the old churches, the plazas full of people, the winding hillside staircases, the reflection of the closed but kind local community. Italian living really is attractive. Lots of sun, delicious food, even better coffee and plenty of warm, kind people. Oh and again, the amazing food. (As an aside Italian cuisine is in my pantheon of top food, up there with Japanese and Chinese food).
A welcoming environment that is slow paced and sometimes disorganized. But it’s such a lovely way of living. No wonder people from all over the world are drawn to the country. And if it can domesticate a busy former CIA assassin, it can do the same for you.
We can all do with more Italy in our lives. I realized this in 2023 when I went to Puglia for my friend Stefan’s wedding. It was such a great respite from my normal modern busy life. Or those of us who are lucky enough to jet set across the world for a career. A slower pace of life and the simple joys provide the reset we can all sometimes use.