The Take
No, Death Wish II is not worth watching. It strips the first film's thin ambiguity and delivers straight revenge porn, with Charles Bronson methodically gunning down his daughter's rapists while the camera lingers on the suffering.
The sequel bloat shows immediately. Kersey relocates to Los Angeles only for the same gang to destroy what little family he has left, then the movie treats every execution as audience payoff instead of consequence.
The Verdict
The film exists to let viewers enjoy Bronson executing criminals without guilt or reflection. Every practical gunshot and 1982-era blood squib serves the fantasy of one man fixing the city by force.
Skip it. Watch The Outlaw Josey Wales instead — revenge with actual moral weight.
Common Questions
Why is Death Wish II controversial?
Yes, its prolonged rape scenes and unrepentant vigilante killings drew protests for glorifying sexual violence and extrajudicial murder.
Is Death Wish II okay for kids?
No. Severe sexual violence, graphic gore, and intense rape sequences make it unsuitable for any age under 18.
Did Brian Garfield like Death Wish II?
No, the original novelist criticized it for turning his sick vigilante into an uncomplicated hero.
