BOTTOM
LINE:
This is a deeply satisfying
action film with a great story and cast. The only downside is that
it’s been done before in films like the 80’s B-grade
classic “Commando”. However, the style and sophistication
of the story telling and action sequences, and Neeson’s powerful
presence in the lead role, more than make up for its lack of originality.
THE
GOOD: Liam Neeson
picks up where Arnie left off, playing an ex-special forces soldier
who has to rescue his daughter from a group of Albanian thugs who
have sold her in to sexual slavery in Europe. Although this story
is nothing new (if you don’t know why I referred to Arnold
Schwarzenegger in my opening line, then go watch “Commando”),
the refreshing aspects in this film reside in the sophistication
of its story-telling in emulating the Bourne film series. Much of
the film is set in France where Bryan (Neeson) tracks down some
dangerous hoodlums who don’t heed his warning when he says
he’s going to come after them after they kidnap his daughter.
The casting of Liam Neeson in the title role was a masterstroke;
not only is he as tough as they come, but he brings a warm, heart-felt
feeling to his performance that adds a few more dimensions to what
could have been a two-dimensional action flick. The film is set
up in an unconventional way with Bryan living on his own, estranged
from his wife (Famke Janssen) but on good terms with his daughter.
The dynamics of the relationships between these characters are quite
rich, which helps us get in to Bryan’s plight when he goes
chasing the bad guys. From the start, you want to see Bryan take
them all out one by one, and given what they have planned for his
daughter, you really do want him to exact justice on these cowardly
thugs. The filmmakers have done a great job of making each encounter
Bryan has with his targets unique; one particularly satisfying scene
occurs when Bryan meets up with the man he spoke to on the phone
when his daughter was taken. Bryan calmly says, “you don’t
remember do you? Did you really think I wouldn’t find you?”
And then bang! All hell breaks loose! French director Pierre Morel
makes his influence felt through the style and execution of the
images and sequences (although the story has a Hollywood bent, much
of the film feels European). The acting is first rate, and surprisingly,
Holly Valance shows up in a supporting role and actually does a
decent job. “Taken” is in essence a sophisticated version
of “Commando”, and it’s a widely entertaining
ride.
