Denzel Washington fights for underdog justice in The Equalizer, the much-hyped new action thriller from Training Day director Antoine Fuqua.

The big screen adaptation of the 1980s TV classic is in theatres this weekend.

But when Denzel Washington fans see the Hollywood star, best known for his puppy dog-eyed tough guys, step into the shoes of retired CIA agent Robert MacCall, they may be left wondering where his charm went—even when he's fighting for the honour of a young prostitute, played by Kick Ass star Chloë Grace Moretz.

While the last Fuqua-Washington​ match up, Training Day, saw the actor pick up a golden statuette at the Oscars, all we're likely to see Washington pick up this time is a blood-spattered mallet, according to CBC's film critic, Eli Glasner.

Watch Eli's full review in the video above, and watch Washington and Fuqua discuss the motivation for Washington's character with CBC Arts Reporter Zukekha Nathoo in the attached video.