The Taking of Pelham 123 – Film Review
February 8, 2010
4/5]
John Travolta in The Taking of Pelham 123. Photo by Columbia Pictures.
With films such as Top Gun, Domino and Déja Vu under his belt, Tony Scott’s remake of the 1974 thriller, The Taking of Pelham 123, can definitely be labelled as a must-see as it is sure to be nothing less than outstanding, and with an exceptional cast including two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington and two-time Academy Award nominee John Travolta, it’s no wonder that it took over $23 million at it’s opening weekend.
Washington is in fine form as subway dispatcher Walter Garber, an ordinary guy whose world is turned upside-down when a subway train he is monitoring is hijacked.
The criminal mastermind with a highly-armed gang and a monstrous plan is Ryder (Travolta), who threatens to execute the train’s passengers unless a large ransom is paid within one hour. As tension is mounting and time is slowly running out, Garber finds himself becoming more and more involved in the wretched wrong-doing occurring below the streets of New York City, as he is forced to try and outwit Ryder while facing a few demons of his own.
Washington and Travolta really do bring this film alive, delivering performances that complement each other perfectly. Travolta is both intelligent and manic, one moment showing mercy, then a split-second later exploding in a fury fatal to those around him, while Washington is forced to remain calm, adjusting himself to whatever Travolta throws at him next. As you watch these two film icons, with their powerful screen presence, immense talent and never-ending energy, coupled with an unpredictable script, you cannot help but find yourself compelled to watch.
I recommend that you see this film if you want to be thoroughly entertained and surprised by two brilliant actors. As cliché as it may sound, The Taking of Pelham 123 really does constantly keep you on the edge of your seat.
