A History of Violence

A History of Violence is a graphic novel written by John Wagner and illustrated by Vince Locke, originally published in 1997 by Paradox Press and later by Vertigo Comics, both divisions of DC Comics. It is also the source for the film of the same name directed by David Cronenberg, the first cinematic adaption of a work by John Wagner since 1995's Judge Dredd.

Synopsis

The story concerns a small town Michigan cafe owner, Tom McKenna, who becomes a local hero after defending his store from an attempted robbery. When his story receives national attention, several members of the New York City Mafia arrive in town, believing him to be someone named Joey, who crossed them 20 years earlier. Whilst Tom protests his innocence to everyone, eventually his façade is dropped and he is forced to reveal his history of violence to his wife and son.

Film adaptation

Main article: A History of Violence (film)

In 2005 the novel was adapted into a film starring Viggo Mortensen. The film takes many liberties with the story - the main character's name is Tom Stall, he lives in Indiana and the gangsters pursuing him are from Philadelphia, and the character of his brother, played by William Hurt, is significantly different from the corresponding character in the graphic novel - but these changes have not attracted the same degree of criticism as the changes for film adaptations of such graphic novels as V for Vendetta. Although criticized for its graphic violence, the film's reviews were favorable and it garnered recognition at the Cannes Film Festival, as well as Academy Award nominations for Hurt (Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role) and writer Josh Olson (Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published).fr: A History of Violence (bande dessinée) sv: A History of Violence

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