Liam Neeson in MARLOWE film still
Liam Neeson had a successful run in Hollywood for many years starring in action packed thrillers and it seemed he could do no wrong. However his movies in recent years have been poorly received by critics and audiences alike.
Could this latest offering restore Hollywood studio chiefs’ faith that he still has what it takes to woo audiences back into cinemas?
Set in the backdrop of Hollywood in 1939, Liam Neeson plays the role of Philip Marlowe, a private detective who is paid to look into the activities of its ‘finest citizens’. Is Los Angeles the city of angels or the city of dirty secrets?
Enter a rich stereotyped married Hollywood femme fatale who askes Marlowe to search for her lover who has disappeared without a trace. When Marlowe asks whether he may have had anything to hide, her smug response is: “Haven’t we all?”
Liam Neeson in MARLOWE – film still
And so the investigation begins and it’s a puzzle with many dark pieces. The plot thickens – why do so many people want him found? Is the lover dead and buried or is he in hiding?
The era is perfectly recreated with glamorous sets, costumes, and hairstyles. The mesmerizing cinematography is the best element of the production. However, it’s ultimately somewhat underwhelming and a drudgery to watch with a mere couple of ‘punch up’ scenes which are vastly overshadowed compared to the action sequences in Neeson’s previous movies.
Neeson, who looks remarkedly well for his age (it’s amazing what makeup can do!) delivers a line during a fight sequence which may explain why – “I’m getting too old for this!”
Diane Kruger and Jessica Lange play unlikeable supporting characters in this stylish crime thriller which amateur armchair detectives may enjoy.
The verdict is in – can the feature film Marlowe save Neeson’s career? Very doubtful. It’s a feeble movie which probably won’t generate much interest.
★★1/2
In Cinemas May 18