Liam Neeson, known for his dramatic roles and a slew of blockbusters, experienced an unexpected resurgence as an action star in the latter part of his career following his role as Bryan Mills in Taken in 2008. However, if you just look at his action-adventure thrillers on their own, Neeson would have delivered a successful career by itself.
Early Action Films
The Dead Pool (1988): One of Neeson’s earlier action roles, this entry in the Clint Eastwood “Dirty Harry” franchise saw him portray a psychotic killer who targets Hollywood celebrities. Evan Kim and Jim Carrey also starred.
Next of Kin (1989): In this action-thriller, Neeson played a truck driver who seeks revenge on the men who murdered his brother. Patrick Swayze headline the film that was sandwiched between his successes of Dirty Dancing, Road House and Ghost. Bill Paxton, Helen Hunt, Adam Baldwin and Ben Stiller also starred.
Darkman (1990): This Sam Raimi-directed superhero film featured Neeson as Peyton Westlake, a scientist who is horrifically disfigured and seeks revenge on those who wronged him. The film opened at No. 1 at the box office in the final week of August 1990. Frances McDormand, Larry Drake and Colin Friels co-starred.
Suspect (1987): This neo-noir thriller headlined by Cher and Dennis Quaid featured Neeson as a deaf murder suspect. The film received critical acclaim and showcased Neeson’s dramatic range.
K-19: The Widowmaker (2002): This historical drama co-starring Harrison Ford and directed by Kathryn Bigelow, while not strictly an action film, featured Neeson in a leading role as the captain of a Soviet submarine facing a nuclear crisis. The film received critical acclaim for its intense portrayal of the Cold War.
Box Office Resurgence
The Taken Trilogy (2008-2014): This franchise, arguably Neeson’s most iconic, established him as an action hero. As a retired CIA operative, Neeson unleashed a whirlwind of fury against those who dared to harm his daughter (Maggie Grace). The films, known for their intense action sequences and the memorable line “I will find you and I will kill you,” became global blockbusters. The series grossed a combined $929.5 million worldwide and also spawned a TV series on NBC in 2017.
Liam Neeson in Taken (Photo/FOX)Unknown (2011): In this suspenseful thriller, Neeson plays a man who wakes up from a coma to find that someone has assumed his identity. The film co-starred January Jones and Frank Langella.
The Grey (2012): This survival thriller, set in the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness, showcased Neeson’s dramatic intensity as a skilled hunter battling a pack of wolves after a plane crash. The film co-starred Dermot Mulroney and Frank Grillo.
Non-Stop (2014): In this suspenseful thriller, Neeson played an air marshal who must prevent a terrorist from killing passengers aboard a transatlantic flight while being suspected himself. The film kept audiences on the edge of their seats with its high-stakes scenario and Neeson’s intense performance. Julianne Moore and Shea Whigham co-starred.
Run All Night (2015): This action-thriller saw Neeson portray a hitman forced to go on the run to protect his estranged son from his former associates. Ed Harris, Common and Vincent D’Onofrio co-starred.
The Commuter (2017): This action-thriller saw Neeson portray an insurance salesman who becomes embroiled in a deadly conspiracy on his daily commute. The film delivered a thrilling ride with its intricate plot twists and Neeson’s portrayal of an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Sam Neill and Elizabeth McGovern co-starred.
The A-Team (2010): This action-comedy, based on the popular television series, featured Neeson as Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith. The big budget film also starred Bradley Cooper, Jessica Biel, Quinton “Rampage” Jackson, Gerald McRaney, Brian Bloom and Henry Czerny.
Widows (2018): This stylish heist thriller, directed by Steve McQueen, featured Neeson in a supporting role as a powerful politician. All-star cast includes Viola Davis, Colin Farrell, Robert Duvall and Michelle Rodriguez.
Widows (Photo/FOX)
Liam Neeson Action Legacy
These films, along with others, demonstrate Neeson’s remarkable versatility and his ability to captivate audiences with his powerful performances. While his Taken persona may have become synonymous with his action career, Neeson’s impressive filmography showcases a diverse range of roles and a talent that continues to entertain audiences worldwide.
