The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)

The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)

Directed by: Tony Scott
Screenplay by: Angelo Pizzo

Genre: Crime | Drama | Thriller
Running Time: 106 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Theater

[IMDb]

Comments: The great thing about big budget action films is that if there's a weak or ridiculous storyline, it can be covered up by explosions. Lots and lots of explosions. The problem with The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 is that it has the plot of a summer blockbuster, but none of the BOOM! Pelham tries to be more of a character driven suspense film, where we are given extensive knowledge into the lives of Denzel Washington (terrific as always) and John Travolta. Unfortunately, this makes the film feel rather laborious as we wait for a pulse-pounding scene, which never really happens. I like the idea of the film, but Tony Scott's execution and visual pizazz makes the movie feel like something it isn't. I like both Scott and Washington, but their films have gotten worse over the years. From the excellent Man on Fire, to the pretty decent Deja Vu, to this summer's Pelham, I think the two need to start picking better projects (and I can't forget about 1995's Crimson Tide, but I've never seen the film). The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 isn't the worst choice you could make at the theater, but there's certainly better options out there to spend your hard-earned money.