Literally everything in the theatrical version is better. The director's cut extends scenes that don't need extended, provides exposition that either isn't necessary or makes later dialogue redundant, and uses a weak score makes the overall feel sluggish and toothless when this version is intended to be faster and grittier. The theatrical version includes subtle dialogue additions that are some of the most memorable moments in the film. The theatrical version also includes narration by Porter (the protagonist), which doesn't seem important until you see the film without it. It is sorely missed because it adds depth to the character while keeping the story moving during long shots of him walking to destinations. There are fewer scenes with William Devane's character, Carter, and his henchmen, which makes his eventual confrontation with Porter far less dramatic. Even the main antagonist is different. The head of the criminal organization is technically the main antagonist, but there's absolutely no building of tension between her and Porter, and the faceless woman who only pops up on two phone calls pales in comparison with the quality performance delivered by the actor in the theatrical version. His presence not only creates an entirely different third act, but changes the whole objective of the story and its much more satisfying conclusion. The director's cut is missing every single suspenseful scene, much of the humor, the development of the crime boss as the main antagonist, the escalation and confrontation between the protagonist and main antagonist, and concludes with all the effort and excitement of a balloon rapidly loosing air. The ONLY reason to watch it is so you'll have an even greater appreciation for the theatrical version.
Review of Payback: Straight Up
