The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3

The Taking of Pelham 123 is marred by its extremely routine script, which doesn’t have a single interesting scene, including its climax. However, its four excellent, well-cast actors and Manhattan filmed in Tony Scott’s attractive style make it fun to watch and superficially cool. (04/26/2010)

Brian Helgeland's work is by far the most exciting. In a minimum of space, he builds an excellent script with a bunch of thrilling dialogues and explosive exchanges of opinions and ideas between the protagonists. Denzel Washington is one of the most talented actors of our time, and John Travolta really enjoys playing villains. Fortunately, there’s no lack of dynamics and drive, and just when it seems that everything is getting too tangled and the film is losing its initial drive, Tony Scott switches to another gear. Of course, the unmistakable visuals are not missing. A simple but well-made bite-sized treat. (09/19/2009)

This is as different as a remake can be. Other than that, it’s a chill movie. Tony and Denzel let John join the crew and took a subway ride. When you get what you’re waiting for, you have to be satisfied, don’t you? Travolta as a bad guy is always something and this time he spits venom like there is no tomorrow. I hope that dubbing works out well enough to be a quote-worthy. I was disappointed by how the scene with Mr. Blue on the railway was changed, but then again, it probably wouldn’t have been so effective. It was nice to see John Turturro acting so ordinarily and almost “normal", I couldn’t believe me eyes. Well and lastly I would like to thank FilmBooster and Falcon for the free preview. I hope that even here in Ostrava another similar screening will take place. (08/31/2009)

At first, this thriller looks quite good, but once it gets to the streets, it's not the same anymore. Denzel Washington excels in the scenes behind the counter, action is an unwanted bonus in his case. Travolta once again plays a proper jerk who tries to add some additional dimension. And I actually buy into it. However, it's still just an average action rather than anything else. (04/05/2014)

A film with absolutely NO CHARISMA, which is quite a big mess given that this a project that stands and falls with conversational tension. Tony Scott's clip exhibition in the action scenes fails completely and Pelham is pretty cumbersome in the tunnel. Being good at a craft and having good actors on the set is not enough. Overall, solidly above average, but one can rightly expect more from a filmmaker with Scott’s credentials. (08/27/2009)