Movie Review

Taken: A Movie Review

Summary

Taken starts off in California, but most of the movie occurs in Paris. Brian Mills, portrayed by actor Liam Neeson, gets offered a security job with his friends to guard a singer. At the concert, the singer is nearly attacked by a man, however, Brian thwarts the assailant's attempt and gets the singer away safely. The next day, when Brian has lunch with his daughter, Kimmy, she asks permission to go to Paris with her friend, Amanda. Brian is hesitant because he does not want his daughter to go alone; however, he eventually lets her go. In Paris, while Kimmy is in the bathroom talking to her dad, she sees Amanda being abducted by a small group of men. Brian gives her a set of instructions to follow, preparing Kimmy to be taken by the men. Brian uses his skills from working in the secret agency to try and find Kimmy. Taken is a good movie because of the plot, soundtrack, its appeal to a wide audience, and Liam Neeson’s performance in the movie.

Plot

The plot is well developed in a number of aspects. The plot was realistic, as being abducted by people from another country is possible. Being in this situation can be very stressful and scary. The audience gets a good sense of what Brian Mills is capable of within the first twenty minutes of the movie. Conflict arises quickly after the audience sees the set of skills Brian has to offer and how his skills would help in the situation. While Brain searches for his daughter, there are many action scenes involved. In addition to all the action scenes, the movie also contains an abundance of suspense.The suspense captivates viewers throughout the movie; leaving them breathless and wanting to know what happens next. Only when the conflict is finally resolved can the audience take another breath. While watching this movie, the audience does not notice how much time has gone by.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack enhances the movie and further sets the mood. The music playing in the background is very subtle, but it is just enough to make the scene creepy. Occasionally the music will gradually crescendo, making the audience more anxious since they feel that something will happen soon due to the music. The music is perfectly timed for an event. To view the soundtracks, click here.

Audience Relevance

Taken appeals to a wider audience than just men. Despite the action scenes, the movie attracts women because it is a drama. Vicariously, mothers can relate to Kimmy’s mother in the movie; having a child taken away is something they can empathize with. Furthermore, the movie is relevant to teens. Kimmy is seventeen years old and puts too much trust in strangers. This results in her being abducted. The movie teaches teens not to trust or give too much information to strangers.

Liam Neeson

Liam Neeson is a great actor for the movie because he is able to keep up with the action and he plays the distressed father figure very well. His role as the protective father is very genuine. There is no doubt that he loves his daughter and will do anything to get her back. Despite the fact that he is working against time, he uses his skills very wisely. He is very knowledgeable of what to do and when to do it. Liam Neeson is in many other movies as well. To learn more about Liam Neeson, click here.

Conclusion

Overall, Taken is a note-worthy movie because of the plot, soundtrack, appeal to the audience, and Liam Neeson’s performance. Taken is packed with action and very suspenseful. It is a must see movie and highly recommended for all people. Be prepared to be left breathless and mind-blown.