The key component of action movies are the conflict, chase, challenge, combat and violence that occur during the film. These kinds of movies also contain the hero triumphing at the end.

The new action movie titled “Retribution” starring Liam Neeson displays action, but lacks the uniqueness from other action films. It doesn’t give audiences a clear sense of danger the characters have to endure. 

The movie contains many faults that are noticeable from the beginning of the movie. None of the characters seemed to have a clue about how to find a solution to their problem of exiting the vehicle. The Interpol agent couldn’t understand simple procedures and keep important information in mind.

The film feels like a wannabe revenge drama that doesn’t have any true revenge theories. The bomber never states his reasoning behind his actions. He attempts to bomb his best friend, just for money and the audience is made to believe that money is the sole reason for killing innocent people.

Liam Neeson is the only bright side for the film as his depiction of a frightened father trying to protect his kids while a bomb threatens their lives makes the viewing tolerance slightly better. The other characters were constantly frustrating to watch, as none of them would listen or comply with simple tasks under stressful situations.

There were also news telecasts in the background depicting the other bombings that were completely ignored by everyone.

The pacing for the film was decent, but it could’ve used more time to fix the many plot holes, showcase how the antagonist escaped the explosion and display how Neeson became innocent after killing the antagonist.

The film has a terrible script that contains many plot holes that were left unanswered. The police stated that all three partners of Neeson’s died in the explosions, however his main partner survived revealing himself as the antagonist. At the end of the movie, it didn’t really show how Neeson proved his innocence as he jumped out of his car with the antagonist inside, essentially killing him.

Overall, the film disappoints to keep the audience engaged in the plot. I would only recommend this movie to Liam Neeson fans. I would give this movie a four out of ten-star review.

Retribution premiered on Friday Aug. 25th and is playing now in theaters.