New 89-Minute Vigilante Action Thriller Defies Critics to Become Streaming Hit
Key Points:
- "Citizen Vigilante," a new vigilante action thriller directed by Uwe Boll and starring Armie Hammer, has become a streaming sensation despite mixed critical reception and controversial subject matter involving vigilante justice against migrants.
- Released in the U.S. on June 19 via Quiver Distribution and briefly on X (formerly Twitter) with a repost by Elon Musk, the film quickly topped digital purchase charts on Apple TV Store and Prime Video, surpassing the popular sci-fi movie "Project Hail Mary."
- The film was effectively banned in Germany after the national film board refused to classify it due to concerns it could incite violence against immigrants, yet it has still managed to generate around $600,000 in revenue against a $2 million budget.
- Director Uwe Boll acknowledged the mixed financial impact of the film's exposure on X, noting it brought significant publicity but uncertain monetary gain, with a clearer picture expected in the coming weeks.
- A sequel, "Citizen Vigilante 2," is planned for 2027, with Boll sharing an AI-generated poster and expressing interest in continuing the story, although script development has not yet begun and Armie Hammer is expected to return.