THE PUNISHER works because Marvel fully embraces the graphic violence, which fits Frank Castle’s trauma-filled story. And when I say they lean in, they really go for it. This is easily the most violent Marvel project so far. Personally, I’m glad they chose such a dark direction for this “special presentation.”
The tricky thing about ONE LAST KILL is that it feels like two stories in one. The first twenty-five minutes set things up, and then the rest is pure, gory action. These parts don’t mix as smoothly as you might want, but Jon Bernthal’s strong performance as Castle makes up for the sometimes forced JOHN WICK-style plot. He’s so good, you’ll forget anyone else ever played the role.
Final thought: THE PUNISHER: ONE LAST KILL is an exciting addition to the MCU. It doesn’t shy away from showing how PTSD and violence shape Frank Castle.
It’s available on Disney+.
