Forget Taken 3. Hell, forget Taken 2 as well. Go back to where it all began and watch the original. It was in this 2008 flick that Neeson first showed us his action hero chops and to this day, it still stands as one of the actor’s best efforts. Thrilling, enjoyable and incredibly fun throughout, Taken was the first movie to show us a new side of the celebrated actor, and for that reason alone it’s worth a watch.
Sure, Liam Neeson certainly took a backseat to Christian Bale in Batman Begins, but that doesn’t mean that his performance as Ra’s al Ghul was any less effective. Here, the actor brings a darkness and depth to the role that helps establish Ra’s as a threatening figure in Bruce Wayne’s life. It’s memorable work from Neeson, for sure, and definitely one of his finer moments.
Neeson courted Oscar when he played Oskar Schindler for Steven Spielberg’s 1993 classic. And though he didn’t end up taking home the gold statue, he definitely deserved to. While the film itself is near flawless, it’s Neeson who really stands out, giving the type of raw, honest and emotionally powerful performance that we just don’t see from him anymore.
Perhaps Neeson’s best post-Taken film, The Grey is an intelligent, thought-provoking thriller that pits the actor against the cold, harsh Alaskan environment. More than just a man vs. wolves tale, Joe Carnahan’s 2009 film is an affecting, and gripping, survival pic anchored by a tremendous performance from Neeson.
Few roles have given Liam Neeson the chance to so completely command a scene as the role of Michael Collins did. In this little-seen 1996 film, the actor is a revelation. In fact, his performance is hands-down brilliant. His towering figure and imposing screen presence brings Michael Collins to life so vividly that we’re left with no doubt in our mind that Neeson is the only one who could have played the part.
Another criminally underrated Neeson film would have to be Kinsey. And honestly, I’m not quite sure why that is. Bill Condon’s biopic is both smart and fascinating as it brings us into the world of the titular doctor as he makes remarkable discoveries about human sexuality. Both Neeson, and co-star Laura Linney, are terrific in their roles and help bring a light, playfulness to what was at one time, a very taboo subject.
Everything is awesome in this animated gem from 2014. From the voice acting to the heartfelt story and all that’s in between, The LEGO Movie was one of last year’s best films, hands down. As for Neeson, his Bad Cop/Good Cop was uproariously funny, providing many of the laughs for both children and adults alike. While the actor is far from the star here, he was perfectly cast and makes every scene count, leaving an impression on us with his extremely memorable character.
