Taken, released in 2008, was an epic film. The expectations from Taken 2 were high. The film grossed $50 Million (approx Rs. 250 Cr) in its opening weekend in US; that is some proof how big a draw Liam Neeson is.
Story: Taken 2 happens in Istanbul. The father of one of the goons that Neeson killed in the first film swears revenge. He kidnaps Neeson’s wife and then Neeson, in his own words, ‘does what he does best’.
Taken 2 is somewhat bland compared to its first version. But on its own, it is a good action thriller. I won’t go much into the story here, because there is not much of a story actually.
Review: The action sequences, car chases and dialogues are top notch. Unfortunately, the Indian censor board seems to have dumbed down the original film by cutting down some scenes. Neeson is scary and in his usual ‘I-don’t-give-a-F’ demeanor. Maggie Grace gets to do more than crying in this version. Neeson is shown getting philosophical about revenge during the climax; I don’t know what the writer and directors were smoking. Liam Neeson and forgiveness!? Are you ... leave it!
I don’t know if Neeson has a daughter in real life but after watching Taken and Taken 2 I wonder if anyone would even marry her; leave aside dating her!
The producers have hinted that they will make Taken 3. I wonder what the goons will take from Neeson now. His dog, cat or his car; may be.
Final Verdict: It is an explosive thriller worth every rupee you pay in ticket price. Go for it! 3.5/5