Liam Neeson has carved a niche for himself in cinema as the grizzled anti-hero, often portraying characters with a complex moral compass. However, in his latest endeavor, “Absolution,” directed by Hans Petter Moland and penned by Tony Gayton, he revisits familiar territory that may leave audiences yearning for a more substantial narrative. The film seeks to explore themes of redemption and familial ties, yet it heavily leans on the age-old trope of a flawed father attempting a last-minute reconciliation with a long-estranged child—a storyline that has been tread upon numerous times in contemporary film.
Neeson’s character, appealingly dubbed “Thug,” faces a life-altering crisis upon receiving a terminal diagnosis. This revelation sparks a quest for redemption as he strives to mend his broken relationship with his daughter, Daisy, played by Frankie Shaw. However, the script often resorts to stereotypical storytelling elements, presenting a narrative that feels uninspired and formulaic. Instead of offering a fresh perspective, “Absolution” seems to recycle plot points that many moviegoers will find all too familiar.
One of the more disappointing aspects of “Absolution” lies in its character development—or glaring lack thereof. While Neeson does his best with a limited script, the film fails to give much depth to pivotal characters. Daisy is barely fleshed out beyond her status as a single mother and her job as a stripper. The narrative touches upon her hardships, including impending eviction and the struggle to support her children, but these themes often come off as haphazard add-ons rather than integral elements of the storyline.
Moreover, the treatment of secondary characters—particularly those from marginalized communities—often veers into problematic territory. The inclusion of LGBTQ characters feels more like an afterthought, and their storylines are reduced to mere plot devices rather than being treated with the nuance and respect they deserve. This oversight diminishes the film’s potential to engage meaningfully with contemporary socio-cultural issues, leaving it feeling outdated and insensitive.
“Absolution” grapples with several themes, including the implications of regret and the possibility of atonement. Neeson’s character learns about his son’s tragic heroin overdose and grapples with the consequences of his absence during the son’s upbringing. The film hints at the father’s internalized homophobia and presents a moment of reflection that has the potential for deeper exploration. Instead, it quickly glosses over these themes, offering little room for the emotional weight they entail.
Furthermore, a subplot involving human trafficking showcases a troubling transition from victimization to redemption. While Neeson’s character ultimately decides to rescue a woman caught in this grim scenario, the execution feels rushed and superficial. The film struggles to maintain a consistent tone, oscillating between moments of expected action and serious contemplation, which ultimately detracts from its overall effectiveness.
Although “Absolution” is set against the backdrop of Boston, which provides some beautiful visuals, the aesthetic alone cannot save the film from its narrative shortcomings. The cityscape is a character in itself, yet it is diminished by a storyline that lacks the depth and engagement necessary for it to resonate with audiences. Given the film’s duration of 122 minutes, one would expect a richer exploration of its themes, but the inconsistencies in pacing keep it from ever truly finding its footing.
Moreover, despite some commendable performances from the cast, they ultimately feel constrained by a flimsy script filled with clichéd sequences and predictable arcs. Perhaps the film’s producers—Roger Birnbaum, Michael Besman, and Eric Gold—along with other executive producers, could have benefitted from a more thorough approach to character development and storytelling.
“Absolution” presents an opportunity to discuss meaningful themes such as redemption and the complexities of family dynamics, yet it fails to leverage these topics fully, opting instead for an all-too-familiar narrative. While Neeson’s powerful presence remains undeniable, the film cannot rise above its shortcomings. As a result, audiences may find themselves disillusioned, hoping for a path less traveled. In short, those approaching “Absolution” should brace themselves for visceral mediocrity rather than cinematic triumph.
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