What Protagonist of All Time Deserves the Worst Rating?

The world of film and literature is filled with myriad protagonists that capture our hearts, make us laugh, and inspire us through their journeys. However, one character stands out as a stark exception to this rule—specifically, the protagonist from the film 'Law Abiding Citizen'.

Meet the Contender: Law Abiding Citizen’s Jamie F?x

Law Abiding Citizen, a 2009 psychological thriller film directed by F?xdie. The film is centered around a man, Lee Nelson (played by Jamie F?x), who is a morally corrupt lawyer. Lee is consumed by his obsession to avenge the murders of his family and as such, he turns to vigilante justice to kill anyone he feels deserves it, including his wayward clients.

The Corrupt Justice: Letting Go of the Innocent

The antagonist, Gerald Butler’s character, R. J. McNeal, is a narcissistic serial killer responsible for the murder of a mother and her daughter. What makes Lee Nelson’s choices so despicable is his blatant disregard for justice and the plight of the innocent. Despite evidence and a confession, Lee allows Gerald Butler to go free, clearly turning a blind eye to the innocent and the guilty as long as they align with his twisted sense of justice.

Why Is He So Unbearable?

Lee Nelson’s protagonist stands as one of the most controversial because his actions are driven by personal vendettas rather than ensuring justice for the greater good. This characterization makes him a perfect match for what we call a soapbox villain—a character who not only has a conflict but is also obsessed with their own “cause” to the point where their actions become increasingly erratic and harmful to those around them.

The Antagonist’s Relatability: R. J. McNeal and Gerald Butler

While Lee Nelson is undoubtedly the central figure in 'Law Abiding Citizen', his nemesis, Gerald Butler (R. J. McNeal), also deserves a considerable amount of attention. R. J. is a narcissistic and callous murderer who tortures and kills with reckless abandon. Yet, despite his obvious villainy, there’s a human element to him that Gerald Butler's portrayal brings to life. This relatability makes his character more than just a one-dimensional psychopath; it adds depth to the story and makes his redemption potential even more poignant.

Is He the Worst Protagonist of All Time?

Is Jamie F?x’s Lee Nelson the worst protagonist of all time? It’s a subjective question that leaves room for many interpretations. While some might argue that the true villains of the piece are those who perpetrate harm, the nature of Nelson’s character and the impact he has on the narrative make him a strong contender for that title. For the purposes of this discussion, one can argue with confidence that Lee Nelson, as performed by F?x, embodies the extreme and morally questionable actions that place him at the top of the list for worst protagonists.

Final Thoughts: Lessons from a Despicable Protagonist

'Law Abiding Citizen' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked justice and the consequences of allowing personal vendettas to cloud one's judgment. While Lee Nelson’s character may be the star of this show, what shines through is the moral complexity of the narrative. This film reminds us that justice often requires a balance of human empathy and moral righteousness. Whether or not Lee Nelson is the worst protagonist of all time is up for debate, but his story undoubtedly leaves a lasting impact on audiences.