Fans of John Wick are told they have to watch the film before it is too late

Peter Harris Live Content Editor

01:20, 06 Feb 2026

A 'gruesome' action thriller that some claim is 'superior to John Wick' is quietly disappearing from Netflix.

Featuring legendary actor Denzel Washington, The Equalizer first arrived in cinemas back in 2014. The film serves as a reboot of the beloved 1980s television series of the same name.

Washington takes on the lead role of former CIA operative Robert McCall. He's a figure of enigmatic background who believes he has left his brutal past behind and commits himself to building a peaceful new existence.

Nevertheless, when he encounters Teri, a young woman who has been mistreated by ruthless Russian gangsters, he simply cannot turn away. Armed with his impressive abilities, McCall abandons his self-imposed retirement and resurfaces as a vengeful guardian, prepared to eliminate anyone who terrorises the defenceless.

Whilst the picture may not have won over critics, it still succeeded in earning a remarkable $192 million at the global box office. This level of commercial triumph eventually spawned two follow-up films, reports the Mirror.

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The Equalizer's original theatrical release was somewhat eclipsed by a comparable production that debuted around the same period - John Wick. Throughout the years, the two films have inevitably found themselves being contrasted by audiences.

It remains a contentious discussion, but those who have yet to witness whether Washington's performance surpasses Keanu Reeves' are running short on time. Although the movie joined Netflix's catalogue last summer, it's scheduled to vanish from the streaming platform within days.

A notice now shows that the final day to view the film on the platform is February 28. Nevertheless, at the time of writing, it can also be accessed via Sky Cinema or NOW.

Therefore John Wick devotees who haven't yet experienced Washington's action thriller are encouraged to watch it without delay. As one viewer suggests: "Well if you've watched John Wick, then you have got to see this. Not only it has such badass moments intricately represented by Denzel Washington but also has moments that give you that 'feel good' when you see him going about his business."

They continued: "Action is neatly choreographed and in certain scenes you don't need to think how that guy went down. Special mention to the subtlety that The Equalizer brings to the table which seemed to be lacking in John wick. Definitely worth your time!".

Another user posted on Reddit with the headline 'The Equalizer is better than John Wick. Change my mind' and argued: "They managed to make The Equalizer a much deeper movie, with a slower pace and much better character development. The gruesome violence has much more impact and is better filmed, without that gratuitous barrages of bullets and bulletproof jackets. One could also argue that Denzel being a better actor helps The Equalizer to stand out."

Someone else declared: "It's like Sherlock Holmes meets John Wick with a hint of the Accountant. Best of all there is compassion and a will to do good."

Yet another remarked: "Amazing movie. Ten out of ten. Could watch on repeat and would never get bored."

Meanwhile there are several who simply say that both movies are just as worth your time. As one individual summarised: "It's pure entertaining action drama which gives you John Wick type vibes. I'm not comparing the movies, both are good in their own style.

"The story was simple and effective, the screenplay was good but little bit loose, the direction was good and the performances were also good especially Denzel's."

The Equalizer is streaming on Netflix until February 28.

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