Death Wish 1974
"Vigilante, city style — judge, jury, and executioner."
When a brutal mugging claims the life of his wife in 1970s New York City, architect Paul Kersey (Charles Bronson) transforms from a quiet, pacifist professional into a relentless vigilante.
Director: Michael Winner
Cast
Charles Bronson
Paul Kersey
Hope Lange
Joanna Kersey
Vincent Gardenia
Frank Ochoa
Steven Keats
Jack Toby
William Redfield
Sam Kreutzer
Stuart Margolin
Aimes Jainchill
Stephen Elliott
Police Commissioner
Kathleen Tolan
Carol Toby
Jack Wallace
Hank
Fred J. Scollay
District Attorney
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Death Wish (1974) about?
After his wife is killed during a home invasion, a mild-mannered architect abandons his pacifism and takes to the streets as a nocturnal vigilante. Paul Kersey's crusade against street crime spirals into a dark exploration of justice, morality, and the cost of vengeance in a city overrun by disorder.
Who directed Death Wish?
The film was directed by Michael Winner, known for his gritty, character-driven thrillers that often push moral boundaries.
Who stars in Death Wish?
The film stars Charles Bronson as Paul Kersey, alongside Hope Lange, Vincent Gardenia, and Steven Keats in pivotal roles.
Is Death Wish (1974) worth watching?
While it doesn't shy away from its controversial premise, *Death Wish* endures as a compelling character study and a product of its era. Its tense pacing, Bronson's commanding presence, and the film's unflinching look at urban decay make it a cult classic worth revisiting.
How long is Death Wish?
The runtime of *Death Wish* is 93 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Death Wish (1974) — Charles Bronson's iconic vigilante thriller explored
When a brutal mugging claims the life of his wife in 1970s New York City, architect Paul Kersey (Charles Bronson) transforms from a quiet, pacifist professional into a relentless vigilante. Director Michael Winner crafts a tense, morally charged thriller that explores the blurred lines between justice and vengeance, set against the grimy backdrop of a city gripped by fear and crime. As Kersey prowls the streets with a loaded revolver, the film delivers a gripping tale of retribution, asking whether one man's crusade can restore order—or merely escalate the chaos.
With its stark black-and-white cinematography and unflinching portrayal of urban decay, *Death Wish (1974)* remains a landmark in the vigilante genre. Bronson's iconic performance anchors the story, supported by a strong cast including Hope Lange and Vincent Gardenia, while the film's themes of alienation and moral compromise resonate just as powerfully today.
