I saw the Director's Cut, and did not see the theatrical release, so I can't compare them. Based on what I've read, there are many differences between the two. Anyway, there is a lot to like about the film, but in the end I think it is too sadistic, too much a fantasy and seemingly only with wanton violence as the point. Gibson is chewing up the screen, surrounded by and playing off of great character actors. Chicago is both gritty and glamorous and is a great backdrop. The pace is great, the action riveting even when unbelievable, and the story is complex and creative. The taxi ambush scene is particularly unbelievable. The writer and director didn't get Lucy Liu's character right; is she meant to be funny ?
Review of Payback
