Out for Justice (1991) is a gritty action thriller starring Steven Seagal at the height of his career. Directed by John Flynn, the film follows NYPD detective Gino Felino as he embarks on a relentless mission to avenge his partner’s murder at the hands of the ruthless and unpredictable Richie Madano (William Forsythe). Packed with intense fight scenes, street justice, and Seagal’s signature martial arts skills, the film is a classic example of early ’90s action cinema.
One of the film’s strongest elements is its raw, no-nonsense approach to storytelling. Unlike some of Seagal’s other movies, Out for Justice leans heavily into the crime thriller genre, focusing on the gritty streets of Brooklyn and the corruption that runs through them. Seagal’s character, Gino, is not just another action hero—he’s a tough, street-smart cop with deep ties to the neighborhood, which adds a personal layer to his mission.
William Forsythe’s performance as Richie Madano is another highlight of the film. He delivers a truly unhinged and menacing villain, making every scene he’s in feel dangerous and unpredictable. His portrayal of a violent, drug-fueled criminal adds depth to the story, creating a compelling cat-and-mouse dynamic between him and Seagal’s character.
The action sequences in Out for Justice are brutal and well-choreographed, showcasing Seagal’s Aikido skills in a series of intense hand-to-hand combat scenes. The bar fight, in particular, is one of the most memorable moments in the film, displaying Seagal’s effortless ability to take down multiple opponents with swift and efficient moves. The realism in the fights makes them stand out compared to the more stylized action of other films from the era.
While Out for Justice is an entertaining action film, it does have some flaws. The dialogue can be cheesy at times, and some plot points feel underdeveloped. Additionally, the film’s violent and gritty tone may not be for everyone. However, for fans of classic ’90s action films and Steven Seagal’s work, Out for Justice remains one of his best and most memorable movies, delivering non-stop action and a satisfying revenge-driven storyline.
