The movie Samaritan (2022), starring Sylvester Stallone, is a gritty superhero drama that combines action, mystery, and emotional depth. Directed by Julius Avery, the film presents a unique twist on the superhero genre, exploring themes of redemption, aging, and the blurred lines between heroism and villainy. Stallone delivers a powerful performance as a reclusive garbage man with a hidden past, making this film both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The story follows a young boy named Sam, played by Javon "Wanna" Walton, who lives in a crime-ridden neighborhood in the fictional Granite City. Sam becomes obsessed with the legend of the Samaritan, a superhero who supposedly died in a battle with his evil twin, Nemesis, years ago. However, Sam starts to suspect that the Samaritan is still alive—and living right across the street. That man is Joe Smith (Stallone), an old, solitary garbage collector who seems stronger and more mysterious than he appears.
As Sam investigates, he draws Joe back into a world of violence he had tried to leave behind. Joe is eventually forced to confront his past and the truth about who he really is. The film gradually reveals that Joe may not be the heroic Samaritan after all, but rather Nemesis, who has been trying to live a quiet life of redemption. This twist adds complexity to the narrative, showing that people are not simply good or evil, but shaped by choices and circumstances.
Stallone’s portrayal of Joe is one of the film’s strongest aspects. Unlike traditional superheroes, Joe is old, tired, and burdened by guilt. Yet he still possesses immense strength and a deep sense of morality. Stallone brings both vulnerability and intensity to the role, making Joe a sympathetic and compelling character. The relationship between Joe and Sam adds emotional weight to the story, as the boy looks up to him as a role model, and Joe, reluctantly, becomes a mentor and protector.
The film's atmosphere is dark and gritty, reflecting the hopelessness of the city and the characters who live in it. The action scenes are well-executed, with realistic fights and a focus on hand-to-hand combat. The special effects are minimal compared to other superhero movies, but this helps the film maintain a grounded, more personal tone.
In conclusion, Samaritan is more than just an action film—it’s a story about redemption, identity, and second chances. It subverts typical superhero tropes and offers a refreshing take on the genre. Sylvester Stallone proves that even in his later years, he can still carry a film with charisma and emotional depth. For fans of darker, more character-driven superhero stories, Samaritan is definitely worth watching.
