It has been said before that Liam Neeson is the "thinking man's" Chuck Norris. I agree with that in the sense that movies starring Neeson tend to be deeper, emotional, and contain actual acting. However, Taken 2 has all the elements of a Chuck Norris film.
Taken 2 picks up where the original movie left off. Bryan Mills is keeping closer watch on his daughter Kim than ever, and getting closer to his
The plot is nothing more than a rehashed version of the first film set in a different country, or as I like to call it "The Hangover Syndrome." It brings Liam Neeson to Stallone territory. The film has little more to offer besides impressive choreography. There is little to no character development or growth. It is almost as though the characters learn nothing from their experiences, and will go on in a cycle of similar events in the future. Even Bryan Mills acknowledges this in the film, and seems to dread the inevitable Taken 3.
What they did impove upon this time around is choosing to have a central antagonist, rather than choosing brigades of Albanians to attack throughout the film. It adds a sense of accomplishment and brings round full circle.
I can't blame Liam Neeson for the films shortcomings, for the same reason you can't blame Ahmed Best for the poor quality of Jar Jar Binks. When an actor is given poor writing, they can only do so much to make a film worth while. Neeson lays all of his cards on the table and brings a certain amount of emotion to the character. However, like most shooting gallery films, there is very little acting required. Neeson is a good example of an action star with true dramatic talent, like Bruce Willis. Unfortunately, it is wasted here.
All in all, Taken 2 is what you can expect it to be. If you're looking for a good time to just relax your brain and just watch, by all means, go. Just be willing to overlook te flaws of the film.
C+
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