The Equalizer Face-Off: Why Queen Latifah’s Take Is Nothing Like Denzel’s

The Equalizer franchise, which first graced television screens in 1985, has since been rebooted twice, evolving in both narrative and tone. The two major adaptations—Queen Latifah’s The Equalizer TV series and Denzel Washington’s The Equalizer movie trilogy—offer distinct takes on the original vigilante theme. Though both share the McCall surname and the desire to help those in need, they differ in execution, character portrayal, and narrative scope. This analysis delves into how these two adaptations reflect their respective mediums and the unique strengths each brings to the franchise.

Origins and Franchise Background

The Equalizer franchise began as a CBS television series from 1985 to 1989, starring Edward Woodward as Robert McCall, a former intelligence officer who helps people who can’t find help elsewhere. This concept has been rebooted twice: first with Denzel Washington’s film trilogy, which began in 2014, and later with Queen Latifah’s The Equalizer TV series, which premiered in February 2021.

Although both reboots are based on the original Equalizer, they take distinct creative directions. Denzel Washington’s film series, which includes three films (2014, 2018, 2023), offers a darker, action-thriller approach. Queen Latifah’s The Equalizer (2021-) reimagines the story for television, focusing more on crime drama with an emphasis on personal redemption and community engagement.

Character Analysis

Queen Latifah’s portrayal of Robyn McCall is one of the most significant distinctions in the Equalizer reboots. As a former CIA operative turned vigilante, Robyn leads a double life—appearing as an average single mother raising her daughter Delilah, while secretly working to help those in need. This version of McCall is portrayed as a guardian angel who balances crime-fighting with personal redemption. Her story often focuses on her interactions with the community and the emotional toll her past and present take on her. The series has resonated with viewers, earning a renewal for a fifth season, premiering in 2024.

In contrast, Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Robert McCall in the films is much darker and more action-oriented. A retired Marine and DIA officer, Robert uses his lethal skills to fight injustice in high-stakes situations, such as rescuing a young trafficking victim in the first film. The films are steeped in intense action and thriller elements, with McCall often facing dangerous enemies from his past. Washington’s McCall is driven by vengeance and justice, with the films exploring deeper themes of retribution.

Narrative and Tone

The tonal difference between the two adaptations is perhaps the most striking. Queen Latifah’s TV series, according to CBS The Equalizer and IndieWire, leans into a lighter, episodic format that mixes crime drama with personal drama. The show offers an intimate look at Robyn McCall’s life, including her relationships and the toll her secretive double life takes on her family. It’s a more grounded, character-driven narrative that often focuses on Robyn’s sense of justice and personal growth.

On the other hand, Washington’s film trilogy, as noted by Screen Rant, is darker, with a focus on high-octane action and suspense. The films push the boundaries of the vigilante genre, emphasizing Robert McCall’s lethal skills and the high stakes of his actions. The darker tone is matched by a sense of danger and urgency, making it a more intense experience for viewers who are fans of action thrillers.

Potential Connections and Crossover Discussions

While both adaptations share the McCall surname, there is no direct narrative connection between them. As clarified by Newsweek, Robyn McCall and Robert McCall are not related by blood, and the TV series is a standalone reboot, separate from the movie universe. However, the thematic link between the two characters—both seeking justice for the oppressed—is evident.

Interestingly, Queen Latifah has expressed openness to the idea of a crossover, though no formal plans have been made. In an interview with Variety, she mentioned that “That’s up to D,” referring to Denzel Washington, hinting at the possibility of a future collaboration but confirming no plans as of 2025. This idea of a crossover has become a point of speculation among fans, especially after the release of The Equalizer 3 in 2023.

Reception and Impact

Both adaptations have garnered mixed-to-positive reviews. Queen Latifah’s series has been praised for its lighter tone, earning a higher Rotten Tomatoes score compared to the films. The TV series has been particularly successful in attracting a broader audience, thanks to its episodic format and more accessible storytelling. By March 2025, the show’s renewal for a fifth season shows its sustained popularity.

Denzel Washington’s film trilogy, grossing over $573.8 million worldwide, has solidified a strong following among action movie enthusiasts. The films’ intense action sequences, combined with Washington’s commanding performance, have made them a hit with fans of the genre, despite some critiques of the films’ focus on violence and spectacle.

Conclusion

Queen Latifah’s The Equalizer TV series and Denzel Washington’s The Equalizer film trilogy represent two distinct takes on the same core concept: a vigilante fighting for justice. While Latifah’s series offers a more grounded, emotionally-driven narrative, Washington’s films deliver high-stakes action and thrilling suspense. Both adaptations have carved their own paths within the Equalizer legacy, and though there are no direct connections between the two, they each bring a unique perspective to the vigilante genre. Fans of both versions can appreciate how each adaptation explores justice and redemption in its own way, reflecting the versatility of the Equalizer franchise.