Matthew Winant - Taken (2/10/2009)

“Now is not the time for dick measuring!”

While there is little religious symbolism in the action flick Taken starring Liam Neeson, there is plenty of revenge, action, killing, and a small side of awesome. This peculiar film came out this past weekend in America; however, it has been released worldwide as early as last February. Because of this, I have seen the film multiple times, once in French, once in Spanish, and a couple of times in English, and I must say that even though the film was originally made in France, good ol' Liam Neeson yelling in English is the best way to see this film. It is almost a cross of James Bond and the Bourne Movies, Nesson's character Bryan Miles is a retired “preventer” who wishes to spend more time with his daughter, who is being sheltered by his ex-wife and new rich-husband. Without revealing to much in terms of spoilers, the main stretch of a religious theme is redemption and purity. I will only go into redemption in this post as to not go into the ending of the film. Bryan attempts to redeem his family life by retiring early, even though he still has the insight of a spy, and spend more time with his only daughter who is now 17. When his daughter wishes to fly to France with her friend Amanda, Bryan of course is reluctant, as he knows what can happen in the real world if you are not careful. Long story short, as seen be the trailers, Bryan's daughter is taken which only leads Bryan on a one-man killing spree of the PG-13 variety, which amazingly enough is good enough for everyone. At some points the action is almost humorous, especially if your watching the film with a group of action-junkies. Bryan's redemption comes at the end of the film when his family life is saved, and he does not miss the action of being an international spy. Overall, the film is great, but short – but this is not always a bad thing – and is worth watching with a group of friends and to discuss the character evolution that occurs throughout the film.