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.
