When you hear that Liam Neeson is starring in a film, you know it’s going to be entertaining. That distinct voice, the man that everyone turns to to save the day (in movies). Neeson is a cementing his place in the action genre. In a time where that niche is missing a distinct face from the predecessors of the 80s and 90s, it’s nice having a familiar face saving people in the most impossible of circumstances. This brings us to his new film, “The Commuter.”
Synopsis
In this action-packed thriller, Neeson is Michael, an insurance salesman, whose daily commute home quickly becomes anything but routine. After being confronted by a mysterious stranger Joanna (Vera Farmiga), Michael is blackmailed into finding the identity of a passenger on his train before the last stop. As he works against the clock to solve the puzzle, Michael is unwittingly caught up in a criminal conspiracy that carries life and death stakes for himself and his fellow passengers.
The film is pretty straight forward. Stakes are set for Michael who is is put in this impossible situation where he either has to follow along with Joanna’s demand or his family will die. Although, one can argue that it was Michael who put himself in this situation by being lured by temptation to make an easy buck. But who wouldn’t want to take the money? Joanna posed the question, “What kind of person are you?”
“The Commuter” is directed by Jaume Collet-Serra who brings an array of cool camera tricks to make the one location mesmerizing. Placing the camera in more places than I could’ve imagined a train to have was a great way to emphasize the confined space and tension. Of course, the film is aided by Neeson’s ability to make the viewer’s empathize with his character. He can still kick some ass in his 60s.
If you’ve loved Neeson’s recent films, you’ll enjoy “The Commuter.” It’s a fast-paced thrill ride with some unexpected turns.
“The Commuter” hits theatres January 12. For tickets and more information visit www.TheCommuter.movie
Catherine grew up watching action flicks at a very young age which led to her love of film. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelors in Radio-TV-Film in 2012. Always the adventurer, Catherine traveled and lived in Sydney, Australia for a year where she took a selfie with Brad Pitt. She runs Shuffle with passion, lots of caffeine and tacos. When she’s not editing or writing you can find her crafting and planning her next adventure.