Taken 3 (2014) – Movie Review
Taken 3 (2014), directed by Olivier Megaton, marks the final installment in the Taken trilogy, starring Liam Neeson as ex-CIA operative Bryan Mills. This time, rather than rescuing a kidnapped family member, Mills is on the run after being framed for the murder of his ex-wife, leading him into a high-stakes battle to clear his name and protect his daughter.
Review:
Unlike the first two films, Taken 3 shifts from the traditional kidnapping plot to a fugitive-style thriller. The change in formula is refreshing in theory, but the execution falls short compared to the gripping intensity of the original Taken (2008). While Liam Neeson still delivers as the tough and resourceful Mills, the film relies heavily on over-edited action sequences and shaky camerawork, making some scenes difficult to follow.
The story, while attempting to add mystery and emotional weight, feels predictable and lacks the urgency that made the first film so compelling. Forest Whitaker, playing the detective pursuing Mills, adds some gravitas, but his character doesn’t get enough depth to truly stand out. The villains also feel generic, missing the menacing presence of past antagonists.
Despite these flaws, Taken 3 still offers some entertaining action and a few memorable moments, but it lacks the raw energy and suspense of its predecessors. While it provides a decent conclusion to Bryan Mills’ story, it feels more like a routine action film rather than a thrilling finale to the franchise.
