So many films that get released in January are ignored, because this month, like August and the beginning of September, are when studios release the crap that they have regretted financing. This weekend, Taken, was released. Let me tell you, it is NOT one of those films (ahem, Renee Zellweger’s New in Town).

From the moment the film began, Liam Neeson’s engaging presence demanded your attention. The plot of the movie is simple enough: his seventeen year old daughter travels abroad in France and is abducted by Albanian sex traffickers and will be sold for auction. Liam Neeson’s Brian Mills is a former CIA operative so tough he convinced me that he could kick Jason Bourne’s ass if the two ever came across one another. Seriously.

The movie clocks in at an about hour and a half and they accomplish everything needed in that time. The plot really is alarming when you think of the fact that this does happen all the time to tourists in many countries around the globe. Personally, to this viewer, it added another reason on my list of why I don’t have any intention of leaving the good ol’ USA. The action sequences are top notch and had me pounding on my companion’s leg due to the tension. Yes, a couple of them are a bit unbelievable, especially near the end when Neeson is dodging multiple bullets. But these things do not matter.

Many films of this nature threw ALL logic out the window. This story had a coherent plot and an intricate, but easy to understand plot. Thanks to Luc Besson (who wrote the script), the genius behind Leon (better known as The Professional to many of you). The way Neeson gathered information on his daughter’s location, etc… was believable and most importantly, engrossing. Neeson gave a strong and electric performance. When he delivered his threats to his adversaries over the phone, I was a bit scared of him. He was a total badass and anyone would want his Brian Mills to be the one rescuing them if they were in his daughter’s situation. But let’s be honest, is Neeson ever less than solid? Even in a teenage crapfest like 1988’s Satisfaction he came away with his dignity in tact (I can’t lie: I own that movie). It was thrilling to see him in an action role, something he hasn’t done much of in the past years except for Batman Begins (a film where his character totally petered out).

The only downfall of Taken was the performance from Maggie Grace (“LOST”). Her portrayal of the kidnapped daughter, Kim, was horrendous. This is one of those actresses that just astound you with the fact they can get work. She must have a miracle worker of an agent because the girl doesn’t have the chops or looks to be in the game. Actually, Kate Hudson should give her agent a call. If he/she can do this for Grace, just think of what could be done for a wasted talent like Hudson. Also, Grace ran like Lloyd from Dumb and Dumber. It bothered me. A lot.

So take my word for it. Most of us forgo the theaters in the cold month of January. This is when we catch up on our DVD viewing, or take in the Oscar hopefuls (SEE REVOLUTIONARY ROAD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!). Give Taken your dough over junk like Changling or The Reader.
On a side note…

While writing this, A Knight’s Tale played in the background on my TV set. Watch the Oscars on February 22^nd. If (WHEN) Ledger takes the statue, it will be only the second posthumous Oscar in history. Witness film history and honor one of the greatest in the last couple decades to grace the biz.

Filed under: silver screen by admin