Taken
“Taken” is a 2008 action-thriller film directed by Pierre Morel and written by Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen. The movie stars Liam Neeson as Bryan Mills, a retired CIA operative who embarks on a relentless mission to rescue his 17-year-old daughter, Kim (Maggie Grace), after she is abducted by Albanian human traffickers in Paris.
The film showcases Bryan’s “particular set of skills” as he navigates the Parisian underworld, confronting various criminals to locate and save his daughter before she is lost forever.
Upon its release, “Taken” received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 60% approval rating based on 178 reviews, with the consensus stating that the film is “undeniably fun with slick action, but is largely a brainless exercise.” Despite the mixed critical reception, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $226 million worldwide against a $25 million budget.
“Taken” has since become a cult favorite, leading to two sequels and establishing Liam Neeson as a prominent action star.