Liam Neeson is no stranger to action films. Having a
late career resurgence as a ‘mature’ action star in the ‘Taken’ movies among
others, Neeson’s emotional intensity have made them compulsive viewing.
‘The Commuter’ is no different as it thrives on his commanding delivery.
His leading man credentials remain intact as he navigates another labyrinthine
plot of skulduggery with his physical manoeuvres becoming an inspiration to the
over-fifties set.
Insurance salesman Michael (Liam Neeson) is on a train
heading home after a tough day. Sadly it’s about to get worse when he
receives a mysterious invitation from a stranger offering him $100,000.
Asked to identify a hidden passenger before the train’s last stop, little does
Michael know the web in which he is now caught. Dragged into a shadowy
criminal conspiracy, Michael races against time to solve the puzzle. His
life and those of his fellow passengers hang in the balance as the train moves
towards its final destination.
‘The Commuter’ is a load of nonsense full of plot
inconsistencies and occasionally dodgy acting. It’s also a lot of fun and has a
continual air of moody tension. Films like ‘The Commuter’ don’t exist for
critics but for undemanding audiences looking for spectacular action. They
certainly get that with the characters facing death at every turn. The
plot deftly mixes mystery and suspense within a ‘Die Hard on a Train’ motif
creating an exciting package. You know what you’re getting for the ticket
price and if you go in without too many expectations you’ll be rewarded with an
enjoyably over the top romp.
None of this would work without Neeson’s presence. His
character’s stoic conviction amidst an outlandish scenario provides the
believability the story needs. However ridiculous it gets, you’re still drawn
in due to his performance as well as the other cast members. The
direction and CGI are decent without being ground-breaking. It is
difficult making something new out of the predictable action formula. But
everyone gives it a good shot with the cinematography and action sequences well
staged even if the pacing slows down towards the end.
‘The Commuter’ is hardly ‘Gone with the Wind’ but it’s a
consistently entertaining thriller. It delivers on the promise in the
trailers and fans of Neeson’s other action movies shouldn’t be
disappointed. It may make others think twice about catching a train
however as this is one train ride ‘The Commuter’s’ characters won’t forget in a
hurry.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
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