Cameron Miranda
*Law Abiding Citizen*, a gripping thriller that blends revenge and justice, was released in 2009. Directed by F. Gary Gray and starring Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler, the film explores the dark consequences of a flawed legal system through the eyes of a man seeking vengeance. Its release sparked discussions about morality, retribution, and the limits of the law, making it a memorable addition to the genre.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Release Year | 2009 |
| Genre | Action, Crime, Thriller |
| Director | F. Gary Gray |
| Writers | Kurt Wimmer (screenplay), Kurt Wimmer (story), Michael Ferris (story) |
| Main Cast | Gerard Butler, Jamie Foxx, Michael Gambon |
| Production Companies | Film Department, The, Warp Films, Evil Twins |
| Distributor | Overture Films (USA), Lionsgate (International) |
| Runtime | 109 minutes |
| Language | English |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Box Office | $127.9 million (worldwide) |
| Budget | $50 million |
| Rating | R (for strong bloody violence and torture, language, and some sexual content) |
| IMDb Rating | 7.4/10 (as of September 2021) |
| Rotten Tomatoes Score | 26% (critics), 76% (audience) |
| Metacritic Score | 32/100 (critics), 7.5/10 (users) |
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What You'll Learn
- Release Date: Law Abiding Citizen was released in theaters on October 16, 2009
- Production Year: The film was produced in 2008 and completed in early 2009
- Box Office: It grossed over $127 million worldwide against a $50 million budget
- Director & Cast: Directed by F. Gary Gray, starring Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler
- Critical Reception: Received mixed reviews, praised for action but criticized for its plot
Release Date: Law Abiding Citizen was released in theaters on October 16, 2009
The year 2009 was significant for Hollywood, with a mix of high-profile releases and indie darlings, but *Law Abiding Citizen* carved its niche by offering a gritty, morally complex narrative. Its release date allowed it to compete with other fall releases while standing out due to its unique premise. The film’s marketing campaign emphasized its release date, ensuring audiences knew when to expect it in theaters. This timing also positioned it well for potential awards season buzz, though it ultimately leaned more toward commercial success than critical acclaim.
For fans and film historians, the release date of *Law Abiding Citizen*—October 16, 2009—serves as a reference point for its cultural impact. It joined the ranks of other 2009 films like *The Hangover* and *Avatar*, though its tone and genre set it apart. The film’s release in the latter part of the year also made it a topic of discussion during year-end retrospectives, further cementing its place in cinematic history. Knowing the exact release date helps contextualize its position within the broader landscape of 2009 cinema.
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Production Year: The film was produced in 2008 and completed in early 2009
The production of *Law Abiding Citizen* began in the latter part of 2008, marking the start of a rigorous filming schedule. The movie, which stars Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler, was primarily shot in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, a location chosen for its urban landscape that complemented the film’s intense and gritty narrative. The production team worked diligently to bring the script to life, focusing on creating a visually compelling and emotionally charged atmosphere. This period was crucial for laying the groundwork for the film’s eventual release, with the crew and cast collaborating to ensure every scene met the director’s vision.
By early 2009, the principal photography and post-production phases of *Law Abiding Citizen* were nearing completion. The editing process, which involved refining the film’s pacing and enhancing its suspenseful elements, was a key focus during this time. Additionally, the sound design and musical score were finalized to amplify the film’s dramatic impact. The completion of these technical aspects in early 2009 set the stage for the film’s theatrical release later that year. This timeline highlights the efficiency and dedication of the production team in delivering a polished final product.
The year 2008 was pivotal for *Law Abiding Citizen* as it saw the transformation of the screenplay into a full-scale cinematic production. The film’s producers and director worked closely to address logistical challenges, ensuring that the shoot stayed on schedule despite the complexities of filming in an urban environment. The collaboration between the cast and crew during this period was instrumental in capturing the intense performances that became a hallmark of the movie. This phase of production laid the foundation for the film’s eventual critical and commercial reception.
Completing the film in early 2009 allowed *Law Abiding Citizen* to enter the final stages of preparation for its theatrical debut. The post-production team focused on fine-tuning every aspect of the film, from visual effects to dialogue synchronization, to ensure a seamless viewing experience. This meticulous attention to detail was essential in maintaining the high standards set during production. By early 2009, the film was ready to be unveiled to audiences, marking the culmination of months of hard work and creative effort.
The production year of *Law Abiding Citizen*—spanning from 2008 to early 2009—was a testament to the film industry’s ability to bring ambitious projects to life within a structured timeline. The film’s journey from script to screen involved countless hours of planning, filming, and editing, all of which contributed to its eventual release. Understanding this timeline provides insight into the dedication and precision required to produce a feature film of this caliber. *Law Abiding Citizen* emerged as a notable addition to the thriller genre, with its production year playing a crucial role in its development and success.
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Box Office: It grossed over $127 million worldwide against a $50 million budget
The 2009 film *Law Abiding Citizen*, directed by F. Gary Gray, proved to be a significant box office success, grossing over $127 million worldwide against a modest $50 million budget. This thriller, starring Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler, resonated with audiences globally, demonstrating a strong return on investment for its producers. The film’s financial performance was particularly notable given its mid-range budget, which allowed it to turn a substantial profit despite not being a blockbuster with a massive production cost.
Domestically, *Law Abiding Citizen* performed well, grossing approximately $73.4 million in the United States alone. This figure accounted for more than half of its total worldwide earnings, highlighting the film’s appeal to American audiences. The domestic success can be attributed to its gripping narrative, which blended elements of revenge and justice, coupled with strong performances from its lead actors. The film’s release in October 2009 also positioned it well to capitalize on the fall movie season, a period often favorable for adult-oriented thrillers.
Internationally, the film added another $53.6 million to its global total, showcasing its cross-cultural appeal. While its overseas earnings were slightly lower than its domestic haul, they still contributed significantly to its overall box office success. Countries with strong thriller and action film markets, such as the United Kingdom and Australia, played a key role in boosting its international revenue. The film’s universal themes of vengeance and the flaws in the justice system likely helped it connect with diverse audiences worldwide.
The $127 million worldwide gross against a $50 million budget underscores the film’s profitability, with a net gain of over $77 million. This financial success is particularly impressive for a film that was not part of a franchise or based on pre-existing intellectual property. It also solidified the careers of its stars and director, proving that a well-crafted story and strong performances could drive box office success without relying on massive marketing budgets or special effects.
In summary, *Law Abiding Citizen*’s box office performance in 2009 was a testament to its compelling narrative and broad audience appeal. Its ability to gross over $127 million worldwide on a $50 million budget highlights its efficiency and profitability in the competitive film market. This achievement remains a notable example of how a mid-budget film can thrive when it effectively combines a strong script, talented cast, and strategic release timing.
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Director & Cast: Directed by F. Gary Gray, starring Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler
F. Gary Gray, the director behind *Law Abiding Citizen*, brought his signature blend of tension and visual storytelling to this 2009 thriller. Known for his work on films like *The Italian Job* and *Straight Outta Compton*, Gray’s ability to craft high-stakes narratives made him an ideal choice for this revenge-driven story. His direction ensured that the film’s pacing and intensity kept viewers on the edge of their seats, while also exploring themes of justice and vengeance. Gray’s collaboration with the cast, particularly Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler, was pivotal in bringing the film’s complex characters to life.
Jamie Foxx, an Academy Award-winning actor, took on the role of Nick Rice, a cunning and ambitious prosecutor. Foxx’s portrayal of Rice added layers of moral ambiguity to the character, as he navigates the legal system while being outmaneuvered by Butler’s character. Foxx’s ability to balance charm and ruthlessness made Rice a compelling figure, even as the plot spiraled into darker territory. His chemistry with Butler, though adversarial, was a driving force behind the film’s tension.
Gerard Butler delivered a career-defining performance as Clyde Shelton, a man driven to extremes after the justice system fails his family. Butler’s portrayal of Shelton was both chilling and sympathetic, as he meticulously plans his revenge against those who wronged him. His transformation from a law-abiding citizen to a calculated vigilante showcased Butler’s range as an actor. Butler’s intensity and commitment to the role made Shelton a memorable antagonist, blurring the lines between hero and villain.
The dynamic between Foxx and Butler was central to the film’s success. Their characters’ intellectual and psychological battle kept the audience engaged, as Shelton’s elaborate schemes continually challenged Rice’s legal and moral boundaries. Gray’s direction ensured that their performances complemented each other, creating a riveting cat-and-mouse game that defined the film.
Together, F. Gary Gray, Jamie Foxx, and Gerard Butler crafted a gripping thriller that resonated with audiences upon its release in 2009. Their collective talent and dedication to the story made *Law Abiding Citizen* a standout in the genre, leaving a lasting impact on viewers long after the credits rolled.
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Critical Reception: Received mixed reviews, praised for action but criticized for its plot
The 2009 film *Law Abiding Citizen*, directed by F. Gary Gray, garnered mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While the movie was praised for its intense action sequences and the strong performances by its lead actors, Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler, it faced significant criticism for its plot, which many found convoluted and overly contrived. The film’s premise—a man seeking vengeance against the justice system after it fails to punish his family’s killers—initially intrigued audiences, but its execution left many critics underwhelmed. Despite its flaws, the film’s pacing and high-octane moments kept viewers engaged, leading to a polarized reception.
One of the standout aspects of *Law Abiding Citizen* was its action-driven narrative, which was widely applauded. Critics noted that the film delivered on its promise of thrilling sequences, particularly in its portrayal of Butler’s character, Clyde Shelton, as a mastermind orchestrating elaborate revenge schemes. The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Shelton and Foxx’s character, Nick Rice, added a layer of tension that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. However, this strength in action was often overshadowed by the film’s weaknesses in storytelling, which became a recurring point of contention in reviews.
The plot of *Law Abiding Citizen* was a major source of criticism, with many reviewers pointing out its logical inconsistencies and implausible scenarios. The film’s attempt to blend themes of justice, revenge, and corruption often felt heavy-handed, and the twists in the narrative were sometimes seen as forced rather than organic. Critics argued that the film relied too heavily on shock value and spectacle, sacrificing coherence and character development in the process. This imbalance between style and substance prevented the movie from achieving the depth it seemed to aim for.
Despite these flaws, the performances of Foxx and Butler were frequently highlighted as saving graces. Butler, in particular, was commended for his portrayal of a man consumed by grief and rage, bringing a compelling intensity to his character. Foxx’s portrayal of a conflicted prosecutor added a moral complexity to the story, though some critics felt his character was underdeveloped. The chemistry between the two actors helped elevate the film, even when the plot faltered, making their showdown a memorable aspect of the movie.
In summary, *Law Abiding Citizen* received mixed reviews, with its action sequences and lead performances earning praise while its plot drew significant criticism. Released in 2009, the film managed to captivate audiences with its high-energy moments but failed to impress with its storytelling. The blend of revenge thriller and legal drama had potential, but the execution left many critics and viewers divided. Ultimately, the movie remains a notable entry in the genre, remembered as much for its flaws as for its strengths.
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Frequently asked questions
Law Abiding Citizen was released in 2009.
The movie Law Abiding Citizen was officially released in theaters on October 16, 2009.
The film Law Abiding Citizen debuted in the year 2009.
The release year of the movie Law Abiding Citizen is 2009.
Yes, Law Abiding Citizen was released in the year 2009.
