Vigilante Action: a Fine Line Between Power, Justice

Read Time:3 Minute, 54 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Fighting Back
–

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Year Released: 1982, 2023 Arrow Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director(s): Lewis Teague
Writer(s): Thomas Hedley Jr., David Zelag Goodman
Cast: Tom Skerritt, Patti LuPone, Michael Sarrazin, Yaphet Kotto, David Rasche, Pat Cooper, Jim Lovelett, Joseph Ragno, Frank Sivero, Lewis Van Bergen, Jim Moody, Peter Brocco, Patch Mackenzie, Josh Mostel, Tony Devon, Ted Ross, Earle Hyman, Joseph R. Sicari, Pat Ryan, Donna DeVarona
Where To Watch: available July 4, 2023, pre-order here www.arrowvideo.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: FIGHTING BACK – a film that shines bright with urban vigilante cinema! Director Lewis Teague weaves a cinematic story that transcends the usual narrative arcs of this genre. This tale of resilience, community, and justice features the dynamic combo of Tom Skerritt and Yaphet Kotto, with Broadway's very own Patti LuPone making her silver screen debut.

The story unfolds in 1982's Philadelphia, a city grappling with unrest. We're introduced to John D'Angelo, played by Tom Skerritt, a deli owner whose tranquil existence is brutally disrupted. When his mother becomes a victim of a violent attack, and tragedy strikes his wife, Lisa, portrayed by Patti LuPone, D'Angelo's transition from a regular citizen to a guardian of justice begins.

FIGHTING BACK veers from the archetypal revenge narrative. Instead of a lone warrior, D'Angelo galvanizes his community, establishing an organized vigilante group – it's like your neighborhood watch got a super-boost! This realistic tale, stripped of fanciful elements, captures a very grounded vibe in its depiction of vigilante action.

The film transitions from personal turmoil to social commentary. It voices diverse perspectives, symbolized by characters David Rasche and Yaphet Kotto. With D'Angelo's crusade against crime, others worry about the potential for racial bias in vigilante actions. Teague throws in a new challenge, amplifying the stakes for D'Angelo.

Teague's skillful direction shines through, crafting a complex narrative with Skerritt's D'Angelo teeters on a fine line, oscillating between a blue-collar worker's pursuit of justice and the intoxicating power accompanying his newfound status.

What would a vigilante film be without high-octane action? FIGHTING BACK doesn't shy away from packing a punch! Sequences featuring D'Angelo and his comrade Vince, played by Michael Sarrazin, shine as they patrol the treacherous streets. Whether it's confronting a drug dealer or using grenades (yep, grenades,) D'Angelo's unyielding pursuit of justice permeates the film.

But FIGHTING BACK isn't just a blood-pumping action flick; it prompts viewers to mull over the ambiguous boundary between personal revenge and vigilante justice. Even with the occasional aged clichés, or some of D'Angelo's questionable choices, the film keeps its audience engrossed with its captivating storyline and a cast that oozes charisma.

With its intense exploration of community activism and justice, FIGHTING BACK takes its audience on a gripping ride through the streets of Philadelphia. The ensemble cast, comprising Skerritt, LuPone, Sarrazin, Pat Ryan, and David Rasche, injects vitality into the film, ensuring an unforgettable cinematic experience.

In conclusion, D'Angelo is a beacon of resistance in the face of urban decay threatening his peaceful existence. His sufferings are catalysts, transforming him from a peace-loving citizen into a resolved vigilante. FIGHTING BACK watches D'Angelo's journey of igniting the spark of rebellion within himself and his community, paving the way for a new type of neighborhood watch that stands firm against the tide of lawlessness.

Bonus Materials
High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation
Original lossless mono audio
Optional English subtitles for hearing impaired
Enough is Enough!, a new interview with director Lewis Teague
Danny-Cam, a new interview with camera operator Daniele Nannuzzi
Trailer
TV Spot
Image Gallery
Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Luke Insect
Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Luke Insect
Illustrated collector's booklet featuring new writing on the film by critics Rob Skvarla and Walter Chaw, and a career-spanning interview with director Lewis Teague

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[photo courtesy of ARROW VIDEO, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]