Classics: A Review of Taken By Lauren Ennis

 "I have a very particular set of skills. Skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. I will look for you, I will find you, and I will kill you" former CIA operative Brian Mills warns the human traffickers who have kidnapped his daughter. Armed with just those skills and a father's love, Brian sets off to rescue his daughter and kicks off an entire action film franchise along the way in Taken. Nearly twenty years after its release this thriller still packs a punch. For a testament to the badassery of fatherly love brush up on your skills with Liam Neeson in Taken.

The story begins with Brian on assignment providing security for a young pop star. After successfully preventing an attack he visits his daughter, Kim in an effort to mend their strained relationship. He is dismayed to learn that his ex-wife has agreed to allow Kim to book a trip to Paris without consulting with him. Despite his misgivings he allows her to make the trip. He regrets his decision almost immediately, however, when Kim and her friend are kidnapped by human traffickers soon after arriving. He then vows to rescue them at any cost. So begins an epic chase across Paris that still has the internet memeing. 

Taken is a simple story with a familiar premise. The film sets itself apart from its contemporaries, however, through its all too human heart. While many action films feature butt-kicking operatives dragged back into the field few do so in such a way as to make audiences actually care about more than the action. By focusing on a father's search for his daughter the film makes its story personal. In its depiction of Brian's search for Kim the film raises the stakes by appealing to viewers' devotion to their own families and asking how far would you go to protect the ones you love. Fortunately for action fans, Brian's answer is to deadly and explosive lengths. Witness the full power of skill of fatherhood in Taken.

The film's cast elevate the story beyond its simple premise. Maggie Grace and Katie Cassidy convey innocence and girlish charm as Kim and her friend, Amanda. Famke Janssen aptly captures the anguish of Brian's ex-wife, Leni. Olivier Rabord, Gerard Watkins, and Arben Bajrak-Taraj are appropriately menacing as the film's criminal masterminds. Liam Neeson dominates the film in a performance that blends steely resolve, inner torment, and plenty of heart.

Taken may not be the most complex film, but it remains a thrilling ode to the power of a father's love. The script blends action and emotion to expert effect, ensuring that viewers will root for Brian on every step of his pursuit. The cast bring the shadowy world of forgotten organized crime to dangerous life. This Father's Day, treat Dad to an action-packed thrill ride in Taken.

Going for Gold with the Literary Titan Gold Book Award!

 Hello Readers,

I'm so stoked to share with all of you that A Boy's Best Comrade is a recipient of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award! Thank you so much to all of you for your continued support!

Lauren