Not counting exactly but I think last night was about the 6th or 7th time I've watched that movie, and I LOVE IT! We watched all the extras on the DVD last night, including the piece about how all the stunts were done (and I have to say, it really is terrific that the stunts were NOT CGI, they were masterfully done). Thomas Jane IS The Punisher, perfectly cast. I have never read any of the comic books; there was a segment on the DVD about the comix, including the history, writers, and artists, but I may go look for issues now. Therefore I can't say how 1 the movie was to the comic book, but the story, regardless, is compelling.

The basic storyline is about a man whose family is killed by a crook, played by John Travolta. Frank Castle waits to see the FBI go after and punish those responsible, but they don't. He therefore takes on the task of dishing out justice, outside the law.

It's a violent movie but no sex (Rated R).  I always feel viscerally satisfied after watching this. In a world where so many do go unpunished and get away with crimes flaunted in front of people's faces (like the Bush administration, for one), being able to see punishment meted out is cathartic.