Like I said before, Neeson is in a lot of the same action films. But, with that being said, this one is actually a lot better than prior action films he has been in. This film is one of his better action films but the pacing of the film is a bit off but that does not mean that this film is complete trash.
The action sequences in this film with Neeson are just what you would expect from his filmography. Another bit is that he does play the same kind of character in most of his action films. But this one is better in the emotional connection and the authenticity of his character. The action is exciting and very thrilling which will get the attention of the audience and get them hooked very quickly.
Director Robert Lorenz makes this film as entertaining as possible but falters on depth and imagination because of the film's somewhat muddled plot and progression. He does however make this film another exciting action film that will rank among one of Neeson's best, not the best, but among his best action films. Lorenz uses the setting of the West and it is fitting for the film and gives off "tough guy" vibes. His work is another exciting and albeit a bit of a slow and formulaic film.
As I said earlier, this film is good and is another solid Liam Neeson thriller, but it does have some issues that hinder it from being even more exciting than it is. Not only that, but the film's script is a bit dull with no real connection to what is going on. It is a bit too cheesy for an action film but it still makes for an exciting narrative.
Revving up the action with the score is television and film composer Sean Callery. His score is as exciting and fast-paced as the film itself. With sounds fitting with classic westerns, this score takes it with a unique twist on the sounds of old western films.
As I have said, the action films starring Neeson in the past have sometimes all been the same, this one included. However there is something about the film that makes it enjoyable, it's the action and his charisma that make this film an exciting but slow and muddled film. It may not be his best action work but it is satisfying enough to thrill audiences.
Poster courtesy of Open Road Films
Rate: B-
Director: Robert Lorenz
Starring: Liam Neeson, Kathryn Winnick, Juan Pablo Raba, Jacob Perez, and Teresa Ruiz
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 Hour & 47 Minutes
Synopsis: Jim is a former Marine who lives a solitary life as a rancher along the Arizona-Mexican border. But his peaceful existence soon comes crashing down when he tries to protect a boy on the run from members of a vicious cartel.