Blog Review: Taken

Taken
20th Century Fox Distribution
Produced by: Didier Hoarau, Luc Besson, and Pierre-Ange Le Pogam
Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Leland Orser,
Directed by: Pierre Morel

This film has the perfect title because it is literally "taken" from the Bourne movies, but not nearly as good. It follows the fast, action-packed chase sequence, incredibly unbelievable fight sequences, and the necessary shaky hand-held camera feel. Unfortunately, Taken can not stand up next to the Bourne films.

Liam Neeson plays a former government agent, not entirely sure which government agency or what his former job title was, but apparantly he recieved some super-spy training and several martial arts blackbelts. However, he gave up that life to live closer to his ex-wife and teenaged daughter. Apparantly his numerous international trips proved too taxing on his ex, and she thus dishes out the usual snide remarks and cunning acts. He loves his daughter unconditionaly and shows it by being extremely protective (he does know from first hand experience how bad the world can be). So when she and her friend want to go to Europe to follow U2's concert tour, she lies to her father to get permission, telling him that she will being staying in her friend's relative's appartment in Paris and just tour the city. He begrudgingly allows her to go. Of course some bad things go down, and she goes missing. That's when Paris experiences the wrath of Neeson.

The fighting sequences went above and beyound unrealistic. The entire time one wonders just how Liam Neeson was able to pull that off. Whether it's driving through buildings, taking on numerous of bad guys at once, Neeson does it all. The amazing fight scenes is there to cover up the true flaw of this movie: the plot. Or perhaps lack thereof. Yes, Neeson is there to rescue his daughter. But to keep that same thought going for an hour and thirty-four minutes is draining. That is where the Bourne movies have succeeded where so many have fallen behind. The audience is kept guessing and wondering about Jason Bourne and the shady characters of his past. You almost know how Taken will end before you even start. But, if you want to see some really cool fights, this movie is for you.