You may be saying to yourself, “Punisher: One Last Kill isn’t a movie! It’s a Marvel Television Special Presentation!!”, and to that I say shut up, it’s my blog and I’m calling it a movie. Starring and written by DC born Jon Bernthal, it’s probably the most violent thing you’ll find on Disney+.
While not a revolutionary film, the cinematography is at times great, outstanding compared to some other MCU projects. The characterization of Frank Castle as a veteran suffering from PTSD is compelling, and the action is more than enthralling. The pace of this film does not feel conventional whatsoever, especially given its 51-minute runtime, but it sticks the landing.
My one complaint is the hilarious shot about 30 minutes in that sucks you out of the film instantly.
Still from an action sequence in "Punisher: One Last Kill". Marvel Studios
Apparently the majority of this shot is real, not CGI, but Bernthal’s face scan is over his double’s face and they used a 3D modeling technique called a mesh for his hair. All together that leads to this awkward PS4 cutscene look. Poor VFX aside, if you’re planning on seeing Spider-Man: Brand New Day and have no idea who the Punisher is, I would suggest watching this to get an idea. Do not expect nearly as much violence from Frank Castle in that movie though.