Doubting whether audiences do really know the existence of this crime film due to poor marketing, Liam Neeson's name alone however has no problem at all to draw a solid walk-ins, and surprisingly it turns out to be a compelling story compared to his previous roles. Unlike the other same genre, this does not filled with action-packed scenes, but progresses steadily and methodically in details just like a real investigation in daily life, making it appears to be a chilling drama thriller. Not much of plot twists, but certain creepy moments with solid scores, riveting performance from the hero himself and the supporting casts, nasty and eerie crime heavily based on drugs and alcohol, the surprisingly "muted" ending style are more than enough to guarantee an intense, enjoyable, old-fashioned and watchable psycho- thriller.
193 Reviews
Crime Cinema Relic
billygoat107124 September 2014
A Walk Among the Tombstones tells a pretty basic detective story. It doesn't necessarily offer us anything new, and that truly is the case here: it's just another episode of a private detective. Even with all of the twisted scenarios, there isn't anything else big or even daring to the picture. While some might be bothered with its lack of innovation, fans of these types of mystery films would still have the pleasure. It has been kind of rare to have such crime thrillers like this in cinemas today, and by its simplicity in storytelling, it sure does deliver things right. What matters to the experience in the end is it's a finely crafted piece of noir that nearly glosses over to the fact that it's just a relic, but a pretty decent one.
The film follows the classic roots of the genre, you won't find any sort of uniqueness around the storyline, but how it constructed each of its sequences still manage to be charming at the beginning and gripping along the way. It just lets the detective walk from one place to another to find clues and unfold questions. But it never lacks the tension, the film places its coldness to buildup an atmosphere that brings uncertainty to the fate of the investigation. The best thing about it is it's simple. It doesn't bother adding some mind-blowing or ridiculous twists, it just digs within a world where some evil can be found in any street. Settling with the characters is as well one of its finest moments, they may not have the most original arcs, but it is undeniably entertaining when it lingers to them.
The direction is predictably slick, and it totally benefits by it for making every scene of bleakness and violence emotionally effective. People shouldn't take for granted its decent camera-work that sharply displays its vital points. It gets even better when explores around its main man: Liam Neeson is now commonly used as an action hero, but here the film rather uses the better side of that reputation which is keeping the audience feel that he is a dangerous man to deal with, even without revealing much of the fists and gunpoint, it's still a totally compelling depiction of his character's cold, brooding personality.
My personal enjoyment to the film is how refreshing to see a mystery film this straightforward and unpretentiously dark in modern cinema. I mean I might as well seen one in any crime television series running today, but it's a lot fascinating to witness it in this form, plus a tone this gritty, a style so clever, and a performance from its main star that makes it more interesting. Again, you won't find anything groundbreaking to the film, but leaving that thought behind would make you realize that it is still a terrifically put together, unpredictably told crime thriller. And I bet that's already enough for this sort of entertainment.
The film follows the classic roots of the genre, you won't find any sort of uniqueness around the storyline, but how it constructed each of its sequences still manage to be charming at the beginning and gripping along the way. It just lets the detective walk from one place to another to find clues and unfold questions. But it never lacks the tension, the film places its coldness to buildup an atmosphere that brings uncertainty to the fate of the investigation. The best thing about it is it's simple. It doesn't bother adding some mind-blowing or ridiculous twists, it just digs within a world where some evil can be found in any street. Settling with the characters is as well one of its finest moments, they may not have the most original arcs, but it is undeniably entertaining when it lingers to them.
The direction is predictably slick, and it totally benefits by it for making every scene of bleakness and violence emotionally effective. People shouldn't take for granted its decent camera-work that sharply displays its vital points. It gets even better when explores around its main man: Liam Neeson is now commonly used as an action hero, but here the film rather uses the better side of that reputation which is keeping the audience feel that he is a dangerous man to deal with, even without revealing much of the fists and gunpoint, it's still a totally compelling depiction of his character's cold, brooding personality.
My personal enjoyment to the film is how refreshing to see a mystery film this straightforward and unpretentiously dark in modern cinema. I mean I might as well seen one in any crime television series running today, but it's a lot fascinating to witness it in this form, plus a tone this gritty, a style so clever, and a performance from its main star that makes it more interesting. Again, you won't find anything groundbreaking to the film, but leaving that thought behind would make you realize that it is still a terrifically put together, unpredictably told crime thriller. And I bet that's already enough for this sort of entertainment.
What everyone else seems to have forgotten...
A_Different_Drummer5 October 2014
... is that, long before Neeson became Hollywood's most late-blooming action hero, he was an actor.
A-C-T-O-R
And a pretty good one at that.
And that is what makes this film a lot better than the other reviews would have you believe.
Yes, I confess, a guilty pleasure, I loved TAKEN. But movies like TAKEN are a crapshoot, a gamble, a party trick where you are constantly trying to find something new and different to resonate with the audience, to make up for the fact that there is little substance to the project. (As was proved by TAKEN 2, one of the worst movies I have ever seen, with some of the most glaring editing mistakes).
Here we go old school. Written by one of the best writers of the last century and directed by Scott Frank, a man who certainly knows how to frame a scene for mood and impact. (At the half way point, a girl in a red hood crosses the street in front of the villains. The scene should not have memorable, but Frank makes it so).
An "old school" classic. Three quarters of a century ago, even Bogey would have taken this part. And been the better for it.
Young "Astro" who plays the ghetto-smart TJ steals all his scenes and, for those with a good ear, even channels the speech patterns of Will Smith, from any movie Smith ever appeared in. This kid has a future.
A-C-T-O-R
And a pretty good one at that.
And that is what makes this film a lot better than the other reviews would have you believe.
Yes, I confess, a guilty pleasure, I loved TAKEN. But movies like TAKEN are a crapshoot, a gamble, a party trick where you are constantly trying to find something new and different to resonate with the audience, to make up for the fact that there is little substance to the project. (As was proved by TAKEN 2, one of the worst movies I have ever seen, with some of the most glaring editing mistakes).
Here we go old school. Written by one of the best writers of the last century and directed by Scott Frank, a man who certainly knows how to frame a scene for mood and impact. (At the half way point, a girl in a red hood crosses the street in front of the villains. The scene should not have memorable, but Frank makes it so).
An "old school" classic. Three quarters of a century ago, even Bogey would have taken this part. And been the better for it.
Young "Astro" who plays the ghetto-smart TJ steals all his scenes and, for those with a good ear, even channels the speech patterns of Will Smith, from any movie Smith ever appeared in. This kid has a future.
Gloomy Crime Film
claudio_carvalho26 April 2016
In 1991, In New York, Matt Scudder (Liam Neeson) is an alcoholic police detective. In 1999, Scudder is retired from the police and is a private investigator without license. When his comrade Peter Kristo (Boyd Holbrook) from the rehab invites him to visit his brother Kenny Kristo (Dan Stevens), who is a drug dealer, Scudder learns that Kenny's wife Ann Carrie Kristo (Razane Jammal) had been abducted and cut into pieces by the kidnappers. Now Kenny wants to find the killer to revenge. Scudder initially refuses the case but then he accepts to investigate. Soon he finds that the killers have murdered other women connected to drug dealers and they get their files from the DEA. When the fourteen year-old daughter of a drug dealer is also kidnapped, Scudder heads up a group to rescue the teenager.
"A Walk among the Tombstones" is a gloomy crime film developed in slow pace, but with a complex story. The plot is realistic and the viewer follows Scudder investigation. The screenplay does not have a plot point with surprising revelations or action scenes; indeed it is indeed old- fashioned. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): "Caçada Mortal" ("Deadly Hunt")
"A Walk among the Tombstones" is a gloomy crime film developed in slow pace, but with a complex story. The plot is realistic and the viewer follows Scudder investigation. The screenplay does not have a plot point with surprising revelations or action scenes; indeed it is indeed old- fashioned. My vote is seven.
Title (Brazil): "Caçada Mortal" ("Deadly Hunt")
Suspenseful and and intriguing thriller with energetic action and plot twists , being compellingly directed
ma-cortes3 October 2021
A well produced film about an ex-drunk Investigator callled Scudder : Liam Neeson , who becomes involved into a twisted criminal case while he is going to discover the killers . Liam Neeson plays an ex-cop with alcohol problems and dark past who has to confront dangerous enemies to save himself and his young friend , a fourteen year-old street kid . As he's hired by a drug lord : Dan Stevens , that's why he's initially reluctant to investigate the assigned case , but then he changes the mind and carries out the hard investigation. He discovers several pieces of a puzzle and Scudder has to solve who is the killer and whom goes to murder . Soon after, he finds that the murderers have killed other women connected to drug dealers and they get their files from the DEA. Lives are on the line ! . People are afraid of all the wrong things . His life on the line ! .
Thrilling and nail-biting movie with noisy action , shootouts , spectacular scenes , fights , violence and amazing finale . From start to finish the fractic action , twists and turns are continuous . As always , Liam Neeson is very good as the ex-cop and private eye who is caught-up in a risked investigation with fateful consequences . Liam playing in his usual style as Private investigator Matthew Scudder who is hired by a drug kingpin well played by Dan Stevens to find out who abducted and killed his wife. Neeson at his best , returning to high-profile roles in 2010 with big-budget films with plenty of action and violence such as : Team A (2010), Unknown (2011), The Grey (2011), Battleship (2012) and Taken I and Taken 2 (2012) , Cold Pursuit (2019) and fiinally The Marksman (2021) . Liam is well accompanied by attractive secondaries , such as as Dan Stevens , Sebastian Roche , Boyd Holbrook , Brian Bradley, David Harbour , among others.
It packs atmospheric and some dark cinematography by Mihai Malaimare shot in New York , using steadicam, at times . The musician Rafael Rivera composes a moving and rousing musical score fitting perfectly to the frenetic action . The motion picture was well directed by Scott Frank. He's a notorious writer and director who has made some nice films . As his first feature directed Josph Gordon Levitt in The Lookout (2007). Scott Frank was nominated for the 2018 Emmy Award in the Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or Special category for Godless (2017), but lost to William Bridges & Charlie Brooker for Black Mirror: USS Callister (2017). He wrote prestigious scripts as noir anthology, Fallen Angels (1993) and Frank also wrote the screenplay for Joanou's 1996 feature , Heaven's Prisoners(1996) . Rating : 7/10. Notable thriller , well worth watching . The flick will appeal to thriller enthusiasts . Essential and indispensable watching for Liam Neeson fans.
Thrilling and nail-biting movie with noisy action , shootouts , spectacular scenes , fights , violence and amazing finale . From start to finish the fractic action , twists and turns are continuous . As always , Liam Neeson is very good as the ex-cop and private eye who is caught-up in a risked investigation with fateful consequences . Liam playing in his usual style as Private investigator Matthew Scudder who is hired by a drug kingpin well played by Dan Stevens to find out who abducted and killed his wife. Neeson at his best , returning to high-profile roles in 2010 with big-budget films with plenty of action and violence such as : Team A (2010), Unknown (2011), The Grey (2011), Battleship (2012) and Taken I and Taken 2 (2012) , Cold Pursuit (2019) and fiinally The Marksman (2021) . Liam is well accompanied by attractive secondaries , such as as Dan Stevens , Sebastian Roche , Boyd Holbrook , Brian Bradley, David Harbour , among others.
It packs atmospheric and some dark cinematography by Mihai Malaimare shot in New York , using steadicam, at times . The musician Rafael Rivera composes a moving and rousing musical score fitting perfectly to the frenetic action . The motion picture was well directed by Scott Frank. He's a notorious writer and director who has made some nice films . As his first feature directed Josph Gordon Levitt in The Lookout (2007). Scott Frank was nominated for the 2018 Emmy Award in the Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or Special category for Godless (2017), but lost to William Bridges & Charlie Brooker for Black Mirror: USS Callister (2017). He wrote prestigious scripts as noir anthology, Fallen Angels (1993) and Frank also wrote the screenplay for Joanou's 1996 feature , Heaven's Prisoners(1996) . Rating : 7/10. Notable thriller , well worth watching . The flick will appeal to thriller enthusiasts . Essential and indispensable watching for Liam Neeson fans.
Excellent film
briandecarrun31 January 2015
Liam Neeson towers in this film, very believable and a brooding presence of regretfulness and one making a living without a path anymore in life but one whose street savvy and street instincts are still honed.
While still living with a moral code, his past and need to look out for the small guy, gets him dragged into a case where there are elements playing from various side, and one which raises a question on to what you should or should not do in the case of kidnappings, with Scudder(Neeson) showing how to take control and push forward.
This is a great detective thriller, keeps you engrossed, great script, strong acting and thoroughly enjoyable and
While still living with a moral code, his past and need to look out for the small guy, gets him dragged into a case where there are elements playing from various side, and one which raises a question on to what you should or should not do in the case of kidnappings, with Scudder(Neeson) showing how to take control and push forward.
This is a great detective thriller, keeps you engrossed, great script, strong acting and thoroughly enjoyable and
Not like Taken, but taken
kosmasp24 March 2015
This is a slow paced thriller, starring Liam Neeson who seems to be the new action star at the moment. An unlikely one and if you've seen Taken 3, you just hope they won't put him into to many foot chase scenes from here on out (or cut them better together). But it's not only about him, it's about other characters as well. Many on the wrong side of the law (obviously), but still not the real bad guys here.
The action scenes are little and come from time to time, this is more about telling a story (though there is not much to tell if you really think about it). There is tension and a lot of characters to keep track of on the other hand. It's nicely paced if you like your thrillers to take their time, if not you'll be bored from time to time.
The action scenes are little and come from time to time, this is more about telling a story (though there is not much to tell if you really think about it). There is tension and a lot of characters to keep track of on the other hand. It's nicely paced if you like your thrillers to take their time, if not you'll be bored from time to time.
A Walk Among the Mystery, but lacking in some thrills
rgkarim21 September 2014
Liam Neeson, astute gentleman, legendary Jedi, and assassin who can hunt anyone down who takes his family. Yet Hollywood seems to focus on the latter, not deviating from the stoic man who can rip armies of murderers asunder and come out swinging. This weekend, yet another story is told about our leading action actor, entitled A Walk Among The Tombstones. Seeing the trailers earlier this summer, I got chills at the darkness and mystery the tale promised. If you know me by now though, there is always the skepticism of being let down by the actual film. What does this movie have in store? Read on to uncover the details.
We know that Liam Neeson can act the part of the sullen, rogue agent who defies all the rules and limits other cops seem to have. Once again, he is back still able to bring the smolder filled face of justice to the dark underbelly of whatever setting he's in. This film though goes one stop further down the dark hole, having Neeson dive into the darker pits of his soul to face the internal and external demons. He pulls it off flawlessly, almost as if he faces the very challenges in real life. Helping to support Mr. Neeson, is a variety of people, though we will only focus on a few others to spare room for other aspects. Providing comedic relief, and an outlet from his character's darkness is Astro, who has had a growth spurt since Echo. Astro has got a mouth, and thinks he is tough kid who knows the way of the world, yet gets a lesson about just how little he knows. He's funny, he's cocky, and Astro pulls off the immature role to the letter. Yet it's the two killers of Ray (David Harbour) and Albert (Adam David Thompson) who really mix well with Liam. Harbour's ability to play the insane serial killer is quite well executed in his delivery of threats and the tone of his voice. As for Thompson, he captures the menacing glare down pat, and knows some stage combat, but aside from that not much in store.
I'm sure you're saying though, I don't really care about the acting. How is the story? Well in a one word summary it is dark. It is also one of the more disturbing plots I've seen, that didn't cross into the soul destroying area. A Walk Among the Tombstones brings tension to the audience throughout the entire film in the hunting of the two disturbed beings. The hunt is in the form of heavy detective work involving talking to suspects, retracing footsteps and trying to piece information together. For once, the mystery has a bit of realism to it, forgoing the convenient pieces of information, for a process that involves actually working for clues. As the movie progresses, the ambiguous nature and seemingly simple motive starts to reveal itself. With each new clue, the mentality of the perpetrators becomes clearer, almost like one is watching an episode of Criminal Minds. Yet the unstable psyche and constant calls of the psychos continue to reestablish the terror of what will happen next. Sure, you have a good idea of what the outcomes will be, but there is just enough uncertainty to have you doubting your thoughts.
Mixed into the bag is some character development amongst the various players in the game, each with their own set of dark secrets that explains why they are scarred for life. Some of these points are relevant, but the mistake here is that they are played over and over again as they build up to the revelation, one of which you already know from the trailers. Other plot elements though are not so relevant or as big as they thought. Some hasty connections were an attempt to add another layer of depth to the story, but I felt the audience could have done without them. Still it gives the cast a little more depth, and provides some emotional depth to an otherwise monotone cast. Perhaps the strongest element of the character development though is the inspiration they have. Albeit a little cheesy in the presentation, there is a good message to those who may have a similar history as Neeson's character. The emphasis of facing your demons instead of running from them is a lesson many could use a refresher course in. Yet the message is drawn out, much like the background, and sometimes adds unneeded length to the movie.
As for the suspense of the movie, as mentioned I before it is the psychotic mindset of the killers that keeps you in suspense. The only problem with this though is that, with the exception of the last part of the movie, the damage has already been done. Unfortunately for the cast, many of the crimes have already been committed, which dulls the intensity of their acts and makes the film a little boring at first. On the opposite side of spectrum, is that some of the actions are a little too well done, especially at times of torture. As stoic as I am against the usual antics, this movie crossed the line a couple of times to really disturb me. Thus, if you are one who gets REALLY AFFECTED BY SCENES OF SUFFERING should turn a blind eye to this film, or at least until they become a little tolerant.
A Walk Among the Tombstones is a nice crime/drama to bide your time with. Those looking for a little pre-Halloween terror will get your fill with this movie, though in truth there are not a lot of technological aspects that make it theater worthy. Still if you are Liam Neeson fan, jump into this crime drama and be ready for a calmer film than his legendary Taken film. My scores for this film are:
Action/Crime/Mystery: 7.0 Movie Overall: 7.0
We know that Liam Neeson can act the part of the sullen, rogue agent who defies all the rules and limits other cops seem to have. Once again, he is back still able to bring the smolder filled face of justice to the dark underbelly of whatever setting he's in. This film though goes one stop further down the dark hole, having Neeson dive into the darker pits of his soul to face the internal and external demons. He pulls it off flawlessly, almost as if he faces the very challenges in real life. Helping to support Mr. Neeson, is a variety of people, though we will only focus on a few others to spare room for other aspects. Providing comedic relief, and an outlet from his character's darkness is Astro, who has had a growth spurt since Echo. Astro has got a mouth, and thinks he is tough kid who knows the way of the world, yet gets a lesson about just how little he knows. He's funny, he's cocky, and Astro pulls off the immature role to the letter. Yet it's the two killers of Ray (David Harbour) and Albert (Adam David Thompson) who really mix well with Liam. Harbour's ability to play the insane serial killer is quite well executed in his delivery of threats and the tone of his voice. As for Thompson, he captures the menacing glare down pat, and knows some stage combat, but aside from that not much in store.
I'm sure you're saying though, I don't really care about the acting. How is the story? Well in a one word summary it is dark. It is also one of the more disturbing plots I've seen, that didn't cross into the soul destroying area. A Walk Among the Tombstones brings tension to the audience throughout the entire film in the hunting of the two disturbed beings. The hunt is in the form of heavy detective work involving talking to suspects, retracing footsteps and trying to piece information together. For once, the mystery has a bit of realism to it, forgoing the convenient pieces of information, for a process that involves actually working for clues. As the movie progresses, the ambiguous nature and seemingly simple motive starts to reveal itself. With each new clue, the mentality of the perpetrators becomes clearer, almost like one is watching an episode of Criminal Minds. Yet the unstable psyche and constant calls of the psychos continue to reestablish the terror of what will happen next. Sure, you have a good idea of what the outcomes will be, but there is just enough uncertainty to have you doubting your thoughts.
Mixed into the bag is some character development amongst the various players in the game, each with their own set of dark secrets that explains why they are scarred for life. Some of these points are relevant, but the mistake here is that they are played over and over again as they build up to the revelation, one of which you already know from the trailers. Other plot elements though are not so relevant or as big as they thought. Some hasty connections were an attempt to add another layer of depth to the story, but I felt the audience could have done without them. Still it gives the cast a little more depth, and provides some emotional depth to an otherwise monotone cast. Perhaps the strongest element of the character development though is the inspiration they have. Albeit a little cheesy in the presentation, there is a good message to those who may have a similar history as Neeson's character. The emphasis of facing your demons instead of running from them is a lesson many could use a refresher course in. Yet the message is drawn out, much like the background, and sometimes adds unneeded length to the movie.
As for the suspense of the movie, as mentioned I before it is the psychotic mindset of the killers that keeps you in suspense. The only problem with this though is that, with the exception of the last part of the movie, the damage has already been done. Unfortunately for the cast, many of the crimes have already been committed, which dulls the intensity of their acts and makes the film a little boring at first. On the opposite side of spectrum, is that some of the actions are a little too well done, especially at times of torture. As stoic as I am against the usual antics, this movie crossed the line a couple of times to really disturb me. Thus, if you are one who gets REALLY AFFECTED BY SCENES OF SUFFERING should turn a blind eye to this film, or at least until they become a little tolerant.
A Walk Among the Tombstones is a nice crime/drama to bide your time with. Those looking for a little pre-Halloween terror will get your fill with this movie, though in truth there are not a lot of technological aspects that make it theater worthy. Still if you are Liam Neeson fan, jump into this crime drama and be ready for a calmer film than his legendary Taken film. My scores for this film are:
Action/Crime/Mystery: 7.0 Movie Overall: 7.0
A long, slow paced thriller with Liam Neeson
Dr_Sagan1 November 2014
The chances are you want to watch this movie because of Liam Neeson, who's popularity skyrocketed the last 4-5 years because of such movies as Taken and Taken 2.
Well, Neeson is the only reason that this movie doesn't suck entirely.
In this movie he is a traumatized ex-cop who hunts down a couple of psychopath killers. The pace of the movie is pretty slow. Don't expect Taken-like scenes in this one. No big surprises script-wise either. Pretty much standard stuff.
The music could be more suitable for a haunted house horror film, and although there are some scenes in a cemetery the title is misleading.
The narrative is somehow difficult to grasp. There aren't constant flashbacks as in other movies but for the first half of the movie many viewers are confused about the timeline of some events.
Also the movie is rather long. This simple premise could have been resolved in far less time than its 1h:54m running time.
Check it out only if you are a hardcore Liam Neeson fan.
Well, Neeson is the only reason that this movie doesn't suck entirely.
In this movie he is a traumatized ex-cop who hunts down a couple of psychopath killers. The pace of the movie is pretty slow. Don't expect Taken-like scenes in this one. No big surprises script-wise either. Pretty much standard stuff.
The music could be more suitable for a haunted house horror film, and although there are some scenes in a cemetery the title is misleading.
The narrative is somehow difficult to grasp. There aren't constant flashbacks as in other movies but for the first half of the movie many viewers are confused about the timeline of some events.
Also the movie is rather long. This simple premise could have been resolved in far less time than its 1h:54m running time.
Check it out only if you are a hardcore Liam Neeson fan.
B rate film
harvindersinghuppal3 October 2014
Hat's off to Liam Neeson for some outstanding performances in a host of films which i rate very highly (This guy is class so there's no need for me to list out the endless list of films he's aced in), this unfortunately is not one of those. - It's a low budget film - There are no other actors anywhere near Liam's class - Liam's own performance is compromised by a poor script, - The plot is pretty one dimensional, again the support cast were so poor there is little hope. Every actor is given a pass to cash in on their name for a quick buck (and i'm pretty sure this film didn't take too long to shoot), but please don't do it again in a hurry! I cannot understand the overall rating of 6.9 when i wrote my review, so i felt compelled to put my opinion forward.
The Annual Liam Neeson Action Film: A New Favorite Tradition.
PostingandToasting20 September 2014
Ahh yes...the time has come for one of my fairly recent favorite traditions...the annual release of a Liam Neeson movie where he is just being a bad a**. Ever since "Taken", the world has been re- introduced to Neeson as it's newest and truest action hero. For the most part during this little resurrection for Neeson, you know that despite any flaws the film might have, it ends up being great entertainment regardless and you overlook those things. The only minor grievance that one might have during this tradition, is that as much as you don't want to admit it, some of these Neeson movies just aren't as good.
Now before we go any further we have to discuss the exact trend of the Neeson films. I am only including the movies where Neeson is, for the most part, the only star and he is playing some grizzled, world weary, growling bad a** with a checkered past. This exempts movies like "The A-Team", "Clash/Wrath of the Titans", and ugh...."Battleship".....dear lord that was terrible....although it it is always nice to see Rihanna trying to be a bad a**, "Aloha, mother f***er!". Anyway, you get the picture. As for the examples of slightly less awesome Neeson bad a** movies, these are the ones like "Unknown", and some may even say "Non-Stop" but I actually enjoyed that one.
"A Walk Among the Tombstones" falls into that category. Many will go into this movie looking to see Neeson kicking dudes a**es left and right and they may be sorrily disappointed. "Tombstones" is more about the detective story and the darkness that the characters descend into as the film progresses. Neeson plays Matt Scudder, a retired cop/alcoholic turned P.I. after a case 8 years ago that left him emotionally and psychologically scarred. He is brought to meet drug dealer (excuse me, "trafficker") Kenny Kristo (worse drug kingpin name ever?) who wants to hire him to find the two men who kidnapped and murdered his wife despite paying them the money they asked for. Scudder, along with a spunky, homeless kid T.J, fish around for clues. Their relationship is interesting at first because it's unclear as to why Scudder continues to come into contact with this kid besides the fact that perhaps by helping this kid, he can make up for a lot of sins he has committed in his past.
The film can be slow at times, but Neeson is almost in every scene and his presence alone keeps you engaged in every step he takes. As you get closer and closer to the truth the film gets more disturbing. This film is unnerving for sure and is a mental disturbance more than anything. Even though it may not be as action packed as some of Neesons' past films (The Grey still doesn't get enough love) but it may be a pleasant surprise for other reasons. One of Americas guilty pleasures is loving serial killers (Dexter, The Killing, Hannibal, films and series, Se7en, etc.) so people may actually enjoy the film but for a completely different reason then they previously thought.
Oh, and don't worry, Liam still has some clever "bad a** one-liners" keeping up with the tradition...Can't wait till next year.
I joyously await your criticism for my overuse of bad a**.
6/10.
Now before we go any further we have to discuss the exact trend of the Neeson films. I am only including the movies where Neeson is, for the most part, the only star and he is playing some grizzled, world weary, growling bad a** with a checkered past. This exempts movies like "The A-Team", "Clash/Wrath of the Titans", and ugh...."Battleship".....dear lord that was terrible....although it it is always nice to see Rihanna trying to be a bad a**, "Aloha, mother f***er!". Anyway, you get the picture. As for the examples of slightly less awesome Neeson bad a** movies, these are the ones like "Unknown", and some may even say "Non-Stop" but I actually enjoyed that one.
"A Walk Among the Tombstones" falls into that category. Many will go into this movie looking to see Neeson kicking dudes a**es left and right and they may be sorrily disappointed. "Tombstones" is more about the detective story and the darkness that the characters descend into as the film progresses. Neeson plays Matt Scudder, a retired cop/alcoholic turned P.I. after a case 8 years ago that left him emotionally and psychologically scarred. He is brought to meet drug dealer (excuse me, "trafficker") Kenny Kristo (worse drug kingpin name ever?) who wants to hire him to find the two men who kidnapped and murdered his wife despite paying them the money they asked for. Scudder, along with a spunky, homeless kid T.J, fish around for clues. Their relationship is interesting at first because it's unclear as to why Scudder continues to come into contact with this kid besides the fact that perhaps by helping this kid, he can make up for a lot of sins he has committed in his past.
The film can be slow at times, but Neeson is almost in every scene and his presence alone keeps you engaged in every step he takes. As you get closer and closer to the truth the film gets more disturbing. This film is unnerving for sure and is a mental disturbance more than anything. Even though it may not be as action packed as some of Neesons' past films (The Grey still doesn't get enough love) but it may be a pleasant surprise for other reasons. One of Americas guilty pleasures is loving serial killers (Dexter, The Killing, Hannibal, films and series, Se7en, etc.) so people may actually enjoy the film but for a completely different reason then they previously thought.
Oh, and don't worry, Liam still has some clever "bad a** one-liners" keeping up with the tradition...Can't wait till next year.
I joyously await your criticism for my overuse of bad a**.
6/10.
decent flick with some brilliant photography
Jqn_Hgar1 October 2014
i just need to say that the guy who handled the cinematography for this picture is a genius and deserves some recognition even though i know for a fact he is not gonna win an Oscar for his work in this movie because simply it's not the kind of movies that gets the academy awards.
as my review for the rest of the movie i thought it was good from the point of view of a guy who misses the old days of the 70's to the 90's because honestly it's became an event to watch a realistic movie these years it's either a superhero movie or some kind of an adaptation to a teen favorite bestseller. i know i personally had great expectations for it especially when i saw the trailer but it fell short of my very high expectations (i expected something like those Korean brilliant thrillers like The Chaser 2009 or I Saw the Devil 2010) however it still doesn't disappoint and it delivers some very good and realistic action scenes with practical effects for a change. god i miss the 90's.
as my review for the rest of the movie i thought it was good from the point of view of a guy who misses the old days of the 70's to the 90's because honestly it's became an event to watch a realistic movie these years it's either a superhero movie or some kind of an adaptation to a teen favorite bestseller. i know i personally had great expectations for it especially when i saw the trailer but it fell short of my very high expectations (i expected something like those Korean brilliant thrillers like The Chaser 2009 or I Saw the Devil 2010) however it still doesn't disappoint and it delivers some very good and realistic action scenes with practical effects for a change. god i miss the 90's.
Walk Like a Man
ferguson-618 September 2014
Greetings again from the darkness. Welcome to the annual off-season gift from Liam Neeson. Seemingly every year, he provides us with a February or September release that requires his particular set of tough guy skills. This time, he plays Matthew Scudder - of the popular Lawrence Block crime novel series (17 books).
Director Scott Frank (The Lookout) works to create a 1970's feel, although the film opens up as a flashback to 1991, and quickly fast forwards to 1999 NYC. There are no shortage of clichés here, but nothing is over the top; and the bleak, somber, usually rainy setting establishes the tone that fits with "unlicensed" private detective Scudder's preferred method of living and detecting.
Of course, Scudder is a recovering alcoholic and former cop, with a tragic, careless incident on his record and conscience. The film is so ever-bleak, that the moments of humor ... though often awkward and out of place ... are quite welcome. The only shining light of innocence comes courtesy of a sharp homeless kid named TJ, played by Brian "Astro" Bradley. TJ is a Philip Marlowe wannabe, and quickly assumes the role of Scudder's partner/intern/IT Department.
Bad guys are everywhere. Even the serial killers (David Harbour, Adam David Thompson) target the family members of criminals, so as to minimize the involvement of the proper authorities. As an improper authority, we can't ask for better than Liam Neeson. He works for "favors", not a paycheck.
Other support work comes courtesy of Dan Stephens ("Downton Abbey"), Boyd Holbrook, and creepy cemetery groundskeeper (is there another type?) Olafur Darri Olafsson, who creates yet another memorable character with limited screen time (see "True Detective").
Mr. Neeson gets plenty of telephone action, which plays right into the strength of Taken, and it's pretty amazing how much WALKING he does throughout the story. He looks great walking in his duster, but it seems a bicycle would be more efficient ... though admittedly, much less daunting. As a whole, though the movie is probably a bit familiar, it's the little details and the powerful Liam Neeson that makes it a welcome late summer release.
Director Scott Frank (The Lookout) works to create a 1970's feel, although the film opens up as a flashback to 1991, and quickly fast forwards to 1999 NYC. There are no shortage of clichés here, but nothing is over the top; and the bleak, somber, usually rainy setting establishes the tone that fits with "unlicensed" private detective Scudder's preferred method of living and detecting.
Of course, Scudder is a recovering alcoholic and former cop, with a tragic, careless incident on his record and conscience. The film is so ever-bleak, that the moments of humor ... though often awkward and out of place ... are quite welcome. The only shining light of innocence comes courtesy of a sharp homeless kid named TJ, played by Brian "Astro" Bradley. TJ is a Philip Marlowe wannabe, and quickly assumes the role of Scudder's partner/intern/IT Department.
Bad guys are everywhere. Even the serial killers (David Harbour, Adam David Thompson) target the family members of criminals, so as to minimize the involvement of the proper authorities. As an improper authority, we can't ask for better than Liam Neeson. He works for "favors", not a paycheck.
Other support work comes courtesy of Dan Stephens ("Downton Abbey"), Boyd Holbrook, and creepy cemetery groundskeeper (is there another type?) Olafur Darri Olafsson, who creates yet another memorable character with limited screen time (see "True Detective").
Mr. Neeson gets plenty of telephone action, which plays right into the strength of Taken, and it's pretty amazing how much WALKING he does throughout the story. He looks great walking in his duster, but it seems a bicycle would be more efficient ... though admittedly, much less daunting. As a whole, though the movie is probably a bit familiar, it's the little details and the powerful Liam Neeson that makes it a welcome late summer release.
A Decent Thriller, Neeson is Great w/Film Noir Vibe
brando6475 September 2015
I had zero interest in A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES when it was released. I never cared for the idea of Liam Neeson as an action star and tend to avoid movies where he's an action lead (no, I've never seen TAKEN
bring on the hate). I got the impression this was just another of them and paid it little attention until I happened to read some of the reviews. I was excited to find this was more of a film noir/mystery than the run-and-gun action I'd expected. It's based on one of a series of novels written by Lawrence Block that I'm unfamiliar with. Liam Neeson is Matt Scudder, a retired police detective and recovered alcoholic who now makes a living as a private investigator. Scudder is approached by a fellow Alcoholics Anonymous regular who hopes he might be able to help his brother. Hesitant at first, Scudder's instincts prove accurate when he discovers the brother is a wealthy drug smuggler. The man's wife was taken for ransom and murdered, and he wants Scudder to find those responsible. Scudder's uninterested until he discovers a pattern of previous missing persons and murders that fit the same description. Soon Scudder finds himself diving deeper into a criminal underworld in search of a serial killer (killers?) who target rich lowlifes and slaughter their loved ones in gruesome fashion. What follows is a tense, occasionally exciting, investigation that ultimately fails to bring any real surprises but works because of Neeson and usual power performance.
I found it interesting that A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES was set in 1999 and it was intent on making sure we never forgot it. Constant hints and mentions of Y2K serve to remind us whenever it can. I suppose it's so the audience doesn't start to question why Scudder and his associates in the film don't use more reliable modern tech. Still, it gives the film a weird, otherworldly period vibe. A lot of dark earthy tones, very few bright colors anywhere to be seen, late model cars and giant phones. The visual design is probably what I enjoyed most about it; A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES is great to look at. The story is all right but, in the end, it's not all that special. Its only unique element would be the fact that it's a familiar serial killer tale in which the victims are criminals (or criminally associated) themselves. Of course a criminal can't exactly go to the cops. Enter Matt Scudder. Scudder is an interesting character. The movie opens with a seemingly unrelated sequence that finds him chasing some thugs through Boston streets in an open firefight and I loved watching it unfold later in the film as an important moment in Scudder's career and some back story to explain why he became the man he is in the film. We get a hint at the complexity behind the character and, while this movie didn't blow me away, I'd be open to seeing further Scudder films.
I enjoyed A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES but I'll admit there's nothing exceptional about it. It fades from memory pretty fast once it's over. The film's cast doesn't have much in the way of standout performances. Neeson, as I said, is excellent because he rarely isn't. He's adopts an unofficial sort of young ward/sidekick in the form a homeless boy who latches on to him, excited at the chance of being a private detective. TJ (Brian 'Astro' Bradley) is a nice foil for Scudder: young and streetwise to counter his older, stoic personality. Dan Stevens, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, and David Habour aren't bad. Just about everyone else leaves no lasting impression. It all comes down to the film basically being a Neeson showcase with an excellent noir- ish atmosphere. It's a decent little thriller but nothing to get excited about. Really, A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES would make a good rental or cable viewing but I doubt it'll show up on many top 10 of 2014 lists.
I found it interesting that A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES was set in 1999 and it was intent on making sure we never forgot it. Constant hints and mentions of Y2K serve to remind us whenever it can. I suppose it's so the audience doesn't start to question why Scudder and his associates in the film don't use more reliable modern tech. Still, it gives the film a weird, otherworldly period vibe. A lot of dark earthy tones, very few bright colors anywhere to be seen, late model cars and giant phones. The visual design is probably what I enjoyed most about it; A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES is great to look at. The story is all right but, in the end, it's not all that special. Its only unique element would be the fact that it's a familiar serial killer tale in which the victims are criminals (or criminally associated) themselves. Of course a criminal can't exactly go to the cops. Enter Matt Scudder. Scudder is an interesting character. The movie opens with a seemingly unrelated sequence that finds him chasing some thugs through Boston streets in an open firefight and I loved watching it unfold later in the film as an important moment in Scudder's career and some back story to explain why he became the man he is in the film. We get a hint at the complexity behind the character and, while this movie didn't blow me away, I'd be open to seeing further Scudder films.
I enjoyed A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES but I'll admit there's nothing exceptional about it. It fades from memory pretty fast once it's over. The film's cast doesn't have much in the way of standout performances. Neeson, as I said, is excellent because he rarely isn't. He's adopts an unofficial sort of young ward/sidekick in the form a homeless boy who latches on to him, excited at the chance of being a private detective. TJ (Brian 'Astro' Bradley) is a nice foil for Scudder: young and streetwise to counter his older, stoic personality. Dan Stevens, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, and David Habour aren't bad. Just about everyone else leaves no lasting impression. It all comes down to the film basically being a Neeson showcase with an excellent noir- ish atmosphere. It's a decent little thriller but nothing to get excited about. Really, A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES would make a good rental or cable viewing but I doubt it'll show up on many top 10 of 2014 lists.
Same as a single episode of a mediocre TV show
Motopsycho220 September 2014
We all love Liam Neeson as the badass action hero who kills bad guys in every scene. He cannot be stopped and will eventually overcome his enemies who are usually underestimating him massively. Ever since Taken, Liam has been typecast as this character in numerous movies such as Taken 2, Non-Stop, Unknown, etc. Well, he plays the exact same role in this one all over again. Now, there is nothing wrong with that if the writers had introduced something unique, something that differentiates this movie from previous Liam Neeson action movies. Not only they have failed entirely to differentiate themselves from a single episode of an everyday detective TV show but the pace of the movie is much slower than of a TV show and the character development is meaningless and entirely cliché.
The production team has simply put all their money betting on Neeson's reputation and success as an action hero. They are betraying viewer's trust by promising them something they know they are not capable of delivering. All the clichés of a Liam Neeson action flick exist in this movie and by watching a single episode of The Wire, CSI, Dexter, etc., you are already ahead in terms of the ticket price and your precious time.
The production team has simply put all their money betting on Neeson's reputation and success as an action hero. They are betraying viewer's trust by promising them something they know they are not capable of delivering. All the clichés of a Liam Neeson action flick exist in this movie and by watching a single episode of The Wire, CSI, Dexter, etc., you are already ahead in terms of the ticket price and your precious time.
Gritty Neo-Noir That Captivates Despite a Misstep or Two
LeonLouisRicci23 March 2015
An Excellent Screenwriter, Scott Frank, Directs this Neo-Noir with the Unlikely Action Hero, a 62 Year Old Liam Neeson. The Film is an Homage to the Noirs of Yore and it isn't Shy About it. Filmed in the Rain and On Gritty Streets and Dilapidated Buildings it Sets a Tone of Foreboding Not the Least are the Two Psycho/Sadist that Seem to Kidnap, Mutilate, and Rape Their Victims and Also Get Their Money.
They Will Get the Comeuppance, that is Never in Doubt, but Getting There is Thing of Novels and this is Pulp Pure and Simple. When the Movie is Dealing with the Psychos and the Drug Dealer Families it is at its Best. The Film Also Excels at Interesting Offbeat Characters that Populate the Mean Streets, Like a Weirdo Who Raises Pigeons.
However, the Movie is Not Without Some Missteps. The Inclusion of a Homeless Teen is Hokey. Can't Imagine Sam Spade or Philip Marlowe Parenting Such a Cliché. It is a Modern Sensibility that Doesn't Fit. It Doesn't Ruin the Movie but it Also Doesn't Help.
Speaking of Not Helping, the Ending Freeze Frame, 12-Step Recital is Another Modernism that is Not Welcome in Such a Downbeat, Scuzzy, Thriller. Once Again it Almost Ruins, but Not Quite, the Effective, Bleak, Camera Work that Had Framed the Film to That Point.
Overall, it is a Good and Stylish Attempt at a Throwback to the Detective Genre. Neeson does a Lot of Gumshoeing. The Aforementioned Missteps Aside, this is Good Entry Into the Film World of Detective Fiction that Came from a Popular Pulp Character that to Date has Walked Among the Missing and the Dead for 17 Books from Author Lawrence Block.
They Will Get the Comeuppance, that is Never in Doubt, but Getting There is Thing of Novels and this is Pulp Pure and Simple. When the Movie is Dealing with the Psychos and the Drug Dealer Families it is at its Best. The Film Also Excels at Interesting Offbeat Characters that Populate the Mean Streets, Like a Weirdo Who Raises Pigeons.
However, the Movie is Not Without Some Missteps. The Inclusion of a Homeless Teen is Hokey. Can't Imagine Sam Spade or Philip Marlowe Parenting Such a Cliché. It is a Modern Sensibility that Doesn't Fit. It Doesn't Ruin the Movie but it Also Doesn't Help.
Speaking of Not Helping, the Ending Freeze Frame, 12-Step Recital is Another Modernism that is Not Welcome in Such a Downbeat, Scuzzy, Thriller. Once Again it Almost Ruins, but Not Quite, the Effective, Bleak, Camera Work that Had Framed the Film to That Point.
Overall, it is a Good and Stylish Attempt at a Throwback to the Detective Genre. Neeson does a Lot of Gumshoeing. The Aforementioned Missteps Aside, this is Good Entry Into the Film World of Detective Fiction that Came from a Popular Pulp Character that to Date has Walked Among the Missing and the Dead for 17 Books from Author Lawrence Block.
Very unnerving
Gordon-1120 September 2014
This film is about a private detective who held to solve the gruesome murder of a drug dealer's wife.
As Liam Neeson has made his name on thrillers, I expected "A Walk Among the Tombstones" to be similar. Though it lacks the continued thrill and mystery, it makes up for it in its intensely horrifying murders. The opening scene shows a beautiful woman being caressed, only at the last second of the scene do the viewers know what is really happening. After that, the film is a little flat until the second half. The ending tent minutes or so is very intense. I had palpitations and I kept shifting in my seat because the plot is very unnerving. I enjoyed watching this film.
As Liam Neeson has made his name on thrillers, I expected "A Walk Among the Tombstones" to be similar. Though it lacks the continued thrill and mystery, it makes up for it in its intensely horrifying murders. The opening scene shows a beautiful woman being caressed, only at the last second of the scene do the viewers know what is really happening. After that, the film is a little flat until the second half. The ending tent minutes or so is very intense. I had palpitations and I kept shifting in my seat because the plot is very unnerving. I enjoyed watching this film.
Im getting tired of these movies...
mr_iceman14 January 2015
Taken was great, and Taken 2 was OK. However I'm getting this feeling that Liam Neeson as a penchant for making phone call threats and seeking revenge in his trademark voice. This is fine for 1 movie, but seeing it a few times now (with this film too) makes it more repetitive than a washing machine.
The moral of the story is that 2 psychotic killers are kidnapping drug dealer's wives/girlfriends and making sure they enjoy every bit of them. This was the only decent part of the story until they happen to ask Liam (a retired cop) for help and the entire movie collapses like a straw house in a blizzard. Instead of these drug dealers with supposedly large ties with criminal groups summoning a group of thugs to beat the crap out of these 2 criminals, they in- list the help of a retired, old and washed-up former cop to assist them as they appear to be completely helpless and at his mercy.
Liam proceeds to do what he (thinks) does best, gets on the phone and starts with threats and blackmailing and the rest if history
i.e - one to skip
The moral of the story is that 2 psychotic killers are kidnapping drug dealer's wives/girlfriends and making sure they enjoy every bit of them. This was the only decent part of the story until they happen to ask Liam (a retired cop) for help and the entire movie collapses like a straw house in a blizzard. Instead of these drug dealers with supposedly large ties with criminal groups summoning a group of thugs to beat the crap out of these 2 criminals, they in- list the help of a retired, old and washed-up former cop to assist them as they appear to be completely helpless and at his mercy.
Liam proceeds to do what he (thinks) does best, gets on the phone and starts with threats and blackmailing and the rest if history
i.e - one to skip
Liam Neeson is brilliant!
yaseerrizwan21 February 2021
Walking in Circles
jadepietro22 September 2014
 This film is mildly recommended. That accomplished Irish actor, Liam Neeson, sidestepped a distinguished Broadway stage career (Anna Christie, The Judas Kiss, The Crucible) for the allure of the big screen. After successful roles in diverse films like Nell, Rob Roy, Michael Collins, Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace, Kinsey, and his peak performance in Schindler's List, he found his niche as an action hero, a sort of everyday common man facing one crisis after the next, just bordering on, but not quite, the superhero. Most moviegoers seem to enjoy this screen persona and his recent acting choices in these conventional thrillers. A Walk Among the Tombstones is another one of these exercises in the action genre with mostly entertaining results. Neeson plays Matt Scudder, a disgraced ex-cop and now P.I. who is hired by a drug dealer (Dan Stevens, taking a giant leap from his Matthew Crawley character from Downton Abbey) to find his wife's killer and exact revenge. Along the way, our solemn hero runs into many unsavory characters, violent encounters, and gruesome murders. His investigation also lead him to a runaway sidekick named T.J. (Brian "Astro" Bradley) who idolizes the detective genre and talks of Sam Spade and Phillip Marlowe. As moviegoers, we are suppose to connect that association with our modern crusader, but there's really no parallel in comparison. Their relationship seems forced and lacks credibility. Their sparing is only there as a plot device to move the action along. A Walk Among the Tombstones holds one's interest, especially in its first hour, as Scudder tries to unravel the killings and the motives for the crimes, but midway, the guilty parties are revealed and the gripping mystery never picks up the pace from there. Instead, the film becomes just another predictable and somewhat dull crime thriller with murder and mayhem overtaking the plot. There are moments of real suspense due to the solid direction by Scott Frank, but his screenplay has some leaps of logic throughout the film. Also, unexplained events during the climactic showdown never quite fall into place. One expects some twists or sudden revelation, but it's all routine procedure and not completely satisfying. Neeson is effective and bring much authority to his role. Adam David Thompson and especially David Harbour are eerily believable as menacing and crazed villains. Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and Eric Nelsen offer strong support in smaller roles. A Walk Among the Tombstones is a grim tale of murder and violence that rambles to its ultimate conclusion when it should strive for more. GRADE: B-
A worthy watch
glorfindal-6716912 June 2020
Taken rates 7.9 points, Tombstones only 6.6
Karl Self2 March 2015
Are you people blind? I more or less stumbled accidentally over A Walk Among The Tombstones and was smitten. Then I wanted more of the same (i. e. action flicks with Liam Neeson) and decided to check out Taken. It's basically Die Hard without the sarcasm. A fun excuse for tying cool kick-butt-scenes together. And while I absolutely enjoy scenarios where a single guy bare-handedly whoops a horde of swarthy Albanian drug-and-girl-traffickers who are better armed than a Transformer, on another level I'm deeply bored. The story is hammy, clichéd and has been done several times before. If you've never seen a vigilante movie before you can knock yourselves out here, but count me out.
A Walk Among The Tombstones may not offer much new, but it doesn't have to. It's simply a fairly old-fashioned, and very, very dark, hardboiled detective flick. It's how the story is being told that amazed me. And how the characters, especially the nasty ones, are being drawn. I can't remember ever having seen a character as ambivalent as Jonas Loogan (the groundskeeper, played by Ólafur Darri Ólafsson) ever before. The sadism of the perpetrators struck me as realistic. It's not so much conveyed through actual footage of them hurting people, but when one of them relays information to prove that their hostage is still alive. You can tell he gets a kick out of leaving her relatives out on a limb for as long as possible.
This is a movie which entertained me and provided me with new insights.
A Walk Among The Tombstones may not offer much new, but it doesn't have to. It's simply a fairly old-fashioned, and very, very dark, hardboiled detective flick. It's how the story is being told that amazed me. And how the characters, especially the nasty ones, are being drawn. I can't remember ever having seen a character as ambivalent as Jonas Loogan (the groundskeeper, played by Ólafur Darri Ólafsson) ever before. The sadism of the perpetrators struck me as realistic. It's not so much conveyed through actual footage of them hurting people, but when one of them relays information to prove that their hostage is still alive. You can tell he gets a kick out of leaving her relatives out on a limb for as long as possible.
This is a movie which entertained me and provided me with new insights.
Very entertaining
calicut11015 August 2021
This is a class above most of the thrillers that come out these days. Liam Neeson is great and much better that most of his new movies. The story is very dark and disturbing at points but it's a slow burner and I enjoyed my time.
avoid like the plague
langangeoff4 October 2014
I'm a big Liam Neeson fan like many people who would be looking to check this film out but do yourselves a favor and totally avoid this. I can't remember the last time I was so bored in the cinema to the point that I actually left during its finale. Literally nothing even remotely interesting happens in this film and anything that does you've seen a million times before. It's so clichéd and ridiculous at the same time. Quick summary of the story is that family members of drug dealers are being kidnapped and murdered and our hero Neeson is the man they turn to for assistance. That's it. Unfortunately his journey to find justice is so drawn out and uneventful that by the time the finale comes you could care less what happens in the end. I left with approx 15 minutes left as I couldn't handle what I was watching anymore. Neeson kid friend ending up in the van of the kidnappers was the final straw as it was so clichéd. Neeson fans should wait for taken 3 as that looks promising. Avoid this boring film for now.
Intense, good cinimatogrophy
sapxr10 May 2022
Minimal set, setting, character intro before the adrenaline spike. The direction and cinematography add to the intensity of the story without gimmicks like "shaky cam." Character development is fast yet satisfying, which is a pleasant and (unfortunately) rare combination.
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