Ebert gave the film three stars while calling it a quasi-fascist advertisement presented as slick action.
The New York Times review is reported to have called the film irresponsible.

Jack Lemmon and Henry Fonda headline a large set of alternate casting possibilities.

In the discussion (3)

Approx. transcript time · 00:56:54Read transcript

A Sidney Lumet version pairing Jack Lemmon as Kersey and Henry Fonda as Ochoa is the favored alternate production.
Steve McQueen, Clint Eastwood, Burt Lancaster, George C. Scott, Frank Sinatra, Lee Marvin, and Elvis Presley are reported as other possibilities.
Elvis Presley and George C. Scott prompt the strongest discussion among the additional lead possibilities.

The research covers Bronson's location demand, difficult reputation, Garfield's objections, and a false Denzel rumor.

In the discussion (6)

Approx. transcript time · 01:01:10Read transcript

Bronson reportedly asked for a California shoot so he could remain near his family, while the production stayed in New York.
The discussion describes Bronson as quiet and difficult rather than socially warm on sets.
His physical condition and ability to handle action are offered as reasons for his long employment and eventual stardom.
Author Brian Garfield is reported to have called the film incendiary because his book was more critical of vigilantism.
Bronson defended the film as an attack on violence, prompting debate over whether the first film romanticizes it.
A long-running rumor that Denzel Washington appeared as an alley thug is reported and then rejected using Washington's denial.

The doctor's bedside manner, repainting the apartment, and a restaurant watching a press conference draw objections.

In the discussion (3)

Approx. transcript time · 01:08:38Read transcript

The doctor's abrupt delivery of the wife's death notification is the primary objection.
Kersey remaining in the apartment without immediately repainting or leaving is criticized.
Restaurant patrons stopping to watch a police press conference are judged implausible.

The police cover-up, Kersey's transfer, and the media aftermath remain unresolved.

In the discussion (3)

Approx. transcript time · 01:14:37Read transcript

The panel questions whether the commissioner, district attorney, and police would all suppress Kersey's arrest.
Kersey's ability to explain his injury and obtain a work transfer is debated.
The panel asks how the police and media would respond after the killings abruptly stop.

In the discussion (2)

Approx. transcript time · 01:16:26Read transcript