It came out in many other countries quite some time ago. I live in Florida so it still hasn't been released where I live, though that didn't stop me from watching it via download quite a while ago. All of those that are anxiously awaiting the release of it should not be dissapointed. Here's my two cents on it:
A moderately high 3.5.
While watching Taken, I thought of it as an
extremely entertaining popcorn flick. I don't discourage myself from watching spy films, there's just not much out there that stand out among great cinematic achievements with an exception of a few films in the 007 saga, which I'm not a cardinal follower of anyway. That being said, this statement isn't going to mean much, but Taken is one of the best and most entertaining spy films I've seen. I'm not going to say best since I'm sure there's something I'm forgetting. I believe those that are into fast-paced action flicks such as Die Hard should enjoy this one quite a bit.
Liam Neeson is fantastic as usual. This is one of those films in which an actor really carries the film on his shoulders. If not for Neeson, the characterization of the ex-spy would not have been nearly as convincing. Bryan Mills, the character Neeson portrays, is one of the best bad asses you'll ever lay your eyes on. Many of the actions he does in the film are very slick and always very cool. The ending comes to mind:
WARNING: "Taken ending" spoilers below
Mills points his gun at a man who is threatening his daughter's throat with a knife. The man holding his daughter at knife point is trying to negotiate with Mills while the whole time Mills is just lining up the man for a headshot.
Mills points his gun at a man who is threatening his daughter's throat with a knife. The man holding his daughter at knife point is trying to negotiate with Mills while the whole time Mills is just lining up the man for a headshot.
His lines are also flawlessly and much of the time quickly delivered. The rest of the performances I thought were mediocre, nothing special, though nothing bad either.
It does have some unbelievable action stunts that will most likely satisfy many Stallone and Schwarzenegger followers, though may disappoint some stern austere film goers. It's not to be listed among the most realistic films out there, and I'm afraid that many critics will pan it for that. Though, it is undoubtedly one of the funnest films to come out as of late (at least from what I've seen). It will assuredly suit the tastes of the action/thriller goofs out there.
EDIT: Additionally, the fight choreography is very convincing and extremely well done.
Reply to Topic
