Taken exploded onto the scene, redefining the action thriller genre and cementing Liam Neeson‘s status as an unlikely action hero. And even after all this time, the film remains as gripping, suspenseful, and downright entertaining as it was back when it opened in theaters on Jan. 30, 2009.
Taken‘s premise is simple, yet terrifyingly effective: Bryan Mills, a retired CIA operative, must use all his skills to rescue his daughter Kim, who is kidnapped while traveling in Europe.
This straightforward setup allows the film to focus on what it does best: delivering a relentless barrage of suspense, expertly choreographed action, and a compelling performance from Neeson.
Neeson’s portrayal of Mills is what elevates Taken above other similar thrillers. He’s not just a muscle-bound killing machine; he’s a father driven by love and desperation. You feel his panic, his determination, and his unwavering resolve.
Liam Neeson in Taken (Photo/FOX)
It’s a nuanced performance that grounds the film’s more outlandish moments in a relatable emotional core. We believe that this man, pushed to his limits, would do anything to save his daughter.
The film’s action sequences, while brutal and efficient, are never gratuitous. They serve the story, showcasing Bryan’s training and resourcefulness without resorting to excessive violence for the sake of spectacle.
The pacing is relentless, keeping you on the edge of your seat from the moment Kim is taken to the film’s explosive climax. The tension is palpable, and you genuinely care about the characters’ fates.
Reception for Taken
Taken grossed $24.7 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 1 at the box office, ahead of Paul Blart: Mall Cop ($13.9 million) starring Kevin James.
The film would gross $226.8 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film two and a half out of four stars in his review, saying “Liam Neeson brings the character a hard-edged, mercilessly focused anger, and director Pierre Morel hurtles through action sequences at a breathless velocity.”
NBC aired the television series version of Taken starring Clive Standen as Bryan Mills and and Jennifer Beals as Christina Hart, the Special Deputy Director of National Intelligence. The series debuted in Feb. 2017 and ran for two seasons.
Legacy
Taken‘s impact on the action genre is undeniable. It popularized the “ordinary person turned extraordinary” trope, inspiring countless imitators. But few have matched the film’s intensity and emotional resonance. It’s a testament to the power of a well-crafted story, a compelling protagonist, and a simple, universal theme: a parent’s love for their child.
