Armie Hammer's return to the screen in the vigilante film "Citizen Vigilante" has become a flashpoint for controversy, following international bans and a notable endorsement from Elon Musk.
The film, which has achieved high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and topped streaming charts in the U.S. and Canada, depicts Hammer as Michael Sanders, a character described as a violent figure targeting "criminal illegal immigrants and their supposed enablers." The movie's plot involves graphic acts of violence, including ambushing mobsters, luring and killing rapists, and executing a judge.
Despite its U.S. streaming success, "Citizen Vigilante" has faced bans in Germany and reportedly suppressed in South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan. This international reaction has led to the film being labeled a "cause célèbre."
Elon Musk amplified the film's visibility by sharing a link to watch it for free on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, and indicated that a sequel is planned. This endorsement has drawn criticism, particularly from those who view the film's content as problematic.
Critics have described the film as a "god-awful mess" with "senseless violence and abominable scriptwriting." The character of Michael Sanders has been compared to figures from "American Psycho" and "Jason Bourne," but is noted for lacking coherent motivation or character development. The narrative includes scenes of Sanders engaging in violence against immigrants and a family, and an instance involving a sex worker, which some interpret as gratuitous.
The reviewer expresses concern that the film promotes harmful stereotypes by linking legitimate concerns about immigration and political discourse to violent extremism. The critique argues that while there are valid political points to be made regarding immigration policies, "Citizen Vigilante" does not advance these discussions constructively.
In other political and cultural notes, the article touches on Vice President Kamala Harris reportedly seeking to align with socialist figures, Serena Williams' absence from a post-match press conference after a Wimbledon loss, and commentary from former NBA player Enes Freedom regarding the WNBA and Caitlin Clark's treatment in the league. Additionally, a report alleges that former First Lady Michelle Obama intervened to prevent Cheryl Hines from participating in a project.
The article concludes with a lighthearted mention of the rumored marriage of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, noting preparations in New York City.
Armie Hammer himself has previously denied allegations of sexual assault and cannibalism, and was not charged with a crime.