🎙️🎬Full Movie Recap
“The Taking of Pelham 123” (2009) is an intense action-thriller directed by Tony Scott, featuring a gripping narrative centered around a hijacked subway train in New York City. The film opens with the routine day of Walter Garber, played by Denzel Washington, who is a Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) dispatcher. His day takes a dramatic turn when a well-organized gang led by the enigmatic Ryder, portrayed by John Travolta, seizes control of a Pelham 123 subway train. The hijackers demand a ransom of $10 million, threatening to execute the passengers if their conditions are not met within the hour. Garber, initially just a voice on the radio, finds himself thrust into the role of negotiator, trying to navigate the tense and high-stakes situation from miles away at the control center, while the clock ticks ominously against them.
As the hostage situation escalates, the film explores the dynamic between Garber and Ryder, whose conversations form the heart of the narrative. Ryder is revealed to be more than just a common criminal; he is a former Wall Street executive with a grudge against the system and a penchant for chaos. He engages Garber in a psychological game, probing into his personal life and testing his moral compass. Washington’s portrayal of Garber is nuanced, capturing the character’s struggle with his own imperfections, including a recent demotion due to accusations of bribery. This adds a personal layer of complexity to the unfolding drama, as Garber fights not only to save the hostages but also to redeem himself.
The tension in the film is heightened by its setting in the labyrinthine subway tunnels, which become a character in themselves. The claustrophobic environment amplifies the suspense, as the authorities, led by Lieutenant Camonetti (John Turturro) and the Mayor of New York (James Gandolfini), scramble to respond. The city’s infrastructure and its vulnerabilities are laid bare, showcasing both the strengths and weaknesses of urban systems in crisis. The film also delves into the operational challenges faced by the MTA and law enforcement, illustrating the chaos that ensues when systems are disrupted by unexpected threats. The urgency is palpable as the authorities work against time to prevent a catastrophe.
Ryder’s plan is intricately strategic; he knows the financial markets inside out and intends to profit from the chaos he creates. As the authorities consider their options, a subplot unfolds involving the stock market, illustrating Ryder’s intention to capitalize on the city’s panic. Meanwhile, Garber’s negotiation skills are put to the test as he attempts to outwit Ryder, leveraging his knowledge of the subway system and human psychology. The film’s pacing accelerates towards a climactic confrontation, as Garber decides to take matters into his own hands, driven by a sense of duty and personal redemption. His transformation from a desk-bound employee to an active participant in the rescue operation is a testament to his resilience and courage.
The resolution of “The Taking of Pelham 123” is both thrilling and satisfying, as Garber confronts Ryder in a race against time and a battle of wits. The film concludes with a tense showdown, where Garber’s quick thinking and bravery ultimately save the day, preventing Ryder from executing his deadly plan. The narrative ties up with Garber returning to his regular life, having proven his integrity and heroism under extraordinary circumstances. Tony Scott’s direction, coupled with the stellar performances of Washington and Travolta, ensures that “The Taking of Pelham 123” is a riveting exploration of human nature under duress, the complexities of urban life, and the thin line between order and chaos.
🎥🔥Best Dialogues and Quotes
“Life is simple now. You just have to do what I say.”
This quote reflects the harsh reality of power dynamics and how quickly life can change when someone else takes control. It serves as a reminder that sometimes simplicity comes at the cost of freedom.
“You know what they say, life is a b*tch.”
A candid acknowledgment that life often presents challenges and hardships, encouraging resilience and acceptance of life’s inherent difficulties.
“You do what you gotta do, right?”
This phrase underscores the necessity of taking action in difficult situations, highlighting the human instinct to survive and adapt when faced with adversity.
“It’s not what you know, it’s what you can prove.”
A reflection on the realities of justice and truth, emphasizing the importance of evidence and perception over mere knowledge or belief.
“Everybody’s gotta pay for something.”
This quote suggests the inevitability of consequences, reminding us that every action, good or bad, has a cost that must be accounted for.
“We all owe God a death.”
An existential acknowledgment of mortality, this quote serves as a reminder of life’s impermanence and the inevitability of death.
“Life is just a series of choices.”
Highlighting the importance of decision-making, this quote reflects on how our choices define our lives and shape our destinies.
“It’s not about the money; it’s about the game.”
This quote delves into motivations beyond material gain, suggesting that the thrill of the challenge can be more compelling than financial rewards.
“You got a plan or just keep talking?”
A call to action, emphasizing the importance of having a strategy and the need to back up words with concrete actions.
“In the end, we’re all accountable.”
A reminder that ultimately, each individual is responsible for their actions and must face the consequences of their decisions.
“Every man’s life ends the same way.”
A philosophical take on mortality, reminding us that despite our differences, death is the great equalizer.
“There’s always a price to pay.”
This quote emphasizes the concept of sacrifice and the unavoidable costs that come with our choices and actions.
“All you have is your word.”
A reflection on integrity and trust, highlighting the value of keeping promises and maintaining honesty in all dealings.
“The clock’s ticking, and time waits for no one.”
A reminder of the relentless passage of time and the urgency it imposes on our decisions and actions.
“Sometimes you gotta break the rules.”
An acknowledgment of the need for flexibility and adaptability, suggesting that rigid adherence to rules can sometimes hinder progress.
“Fear is the greatest motivator.”
This quote explores the powerful influence of fear on human behavior, driving people to act in ways they might not otherwise consider.
“There’s no such thing as a free ride.”
A reminder that everything in life has a cost, whether it’s visible or hidden, reinforcing the value of earning one’s keep.
“You either run from it or learn from it.”
This quote encourages resilience and personal growth, suggesting that challenges can serve as valuable learning experiences.
“You gotta do what you gotta do to survive.”
A realistic acceptance of life’s challenges, highlighting the instinctual drive to persevere and overcome obstacles.
“It’s all about leverage.”
This quote underscores the importance of influence and strategic advantage in achieving goals and navigating complex situations.
🎬🔍 Behind-the-Scenes Facts
Director’s Vision
Director Tony Scott wanted to create a fast-paced, high-intensity thriller, which is why the film features rapid editing and a dynamic camera style to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Realism in Performances
Denzel Washington, who plays Walter Garber, spent time with real New York City subway dispatchers to bring authenticity to his role as the transit authority employee.
John Travolta’s Transformation
For his role as the antagonist Ryder, John Travolta shaved his head and gained weight to create a more menacing and unpredictable character.
Subway System Simulation
The filmmakers created a full-scale replica of a New York City subway line on a soundstage to accurately portray the film’s underground scenes without disrupting actual subway services.
Technical Challenges
The crew faced significant challenges while filming in the subway tunnels, including dealing with the intense heat and ensuring the safety of both the cast and crew during the shoot.
Homage to the Original
The 2009 film is a remake of the 1974 movie of the same name, and it includes several nods to the original, such as the use of color-coded names for the hijackers.
Meticulous Sound Design
The sound design in the film was carefully crafted to capture the ambient noises of the New York City subway system, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the viewing experience.
Intense Negotiation Scenes
The negotiation scenes between Denzel Washington and John Travolta were filmed with a sense of urgency, with the actors performing many of them in real-time to capture genuine tension.
Real NYPD Involvement
The production team worked closely with the New York Police Department to ensure that the portrayal of law enforcement procedures was accurate and respectful.
Box Office Success
Despite mixed reviews, “The Taking of Pelham 123” was a commercial success, grossing over $150 million worldwide, showcasing the global appeal of high-stakes thrillers.
🎭🍿 Hidden Easter Eggs & Trivia
The 2009 film “The Taking of Pelham 123,” directed by Tony Scott, is a remake of the 1974 classic, bringing a modern twist to the thrilling narrative. One of the lesser-known behind-the-scenes facts is that the film’s production involved extensive cooperation with the New York City Metro Transit Authority. The filmmakers were granted unprecedented access to the subway system, allowing them to shoot scenes in real subway cars and stations. This collaboration was crucial in creating an authentic atmosphere, as the MTA even provided retired subway cars for the film’s dramatic hijacking sequences. The commitment to authenticity extended to the cast, with Denzel Washington, who played Walter Garber, spending time with real-life subway dispatchers to accurately portray his role as a transit official. This dedication to realism helped ground the film’s intense action in a believable setting.
In terms of trivia, “The Taking of Pelham 123” included a host of small but fascinating details that audiences might overlook. For instance, the film pays homage to its 1974 predecessor with subtle nods, such as the repeated use of the number 6. The hijacked train is designated as 6-Train, and the time 1:23 is featured prominently, connecting to the film’s title. Additionally, the character Ryder, played by John Travolta, uses the alias Mr. Blue, which is a direct reference to the original film where the lead hijacker used the same moniker. These creative choices serve as Easter eggs for fans familiar with both versions, enriching the viewing experience with layers of intertextuality.
On a psychological level, the film delves into the tension and unpredictability inherent in hostage scenarios. It explores themes of authority and power dynamics, particularly through the interactions between Garber and Ryder. The psychological cat-and-mouse game between these two characters adds depth to the narrative, showcasing how stress and high-stakes situations can alter decision-making processes. The movie also examines the psychological impact on the hostages, portraying the varying ways individuals respond to crisis, from panic to stoic calmness. This depiction underscores the film’s focus on the human element amidst chaos, emphasizing personal resilience and the instinct for survival.
The film’s impact and legacy are reflected in how it reinvigorated interest in urban thrillers set in New York City’s unique landscape. Tony Scott’s direction brought a kinetic energy to the film, characterized by fast-paced editing and a vibrant visual style that became a signature of his later work. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it was praised for its compelling performances and the chemistry between Washington and Travolta. Over time, it has garnered a cult following, appreciated for its intense action sequences and the depth of its character portrayals. The movie also contributed to a renewed appreciation for the 1974 original, encouraging new audiences to explore the classic film.
In terms of its production, one of the key challenges faced was executing the film’s complex action sequences within the confines of a moving subway train. This required innovative camera work and inventive choreography to capture the tension and claustrophobia experienced by the characters. The production team employed a combination of practical effects and CGI to enhance the realism of the train sequences, ensuring that the audience felt every jolt and screech of the subway cars. Additionally, the film’s score, composed by Harry Gregson-Williams, played a pivotal role in building suspense, blending electronic elements with orchestral music to create an atmosphere of mounting tension.
Ultimately, “The Taking of Pelham 123” stands out for its ability to marry high-octane action with psychological depth, offering a fresh take on a classic narrative. Its exploration of modern-day anxieties, such as terrorism and the fragility of urban infrastructure, resonates with contemporary audiences, making it a relevant piece of cinema. The film’s legacy is further cemented by its influence on subsequent urban thrillers, setting a benchmark for how to effectively utilize a cityscape as both a backdrop and a character within the story. As such, “The Taking of Pelham 123” continues to captivate viewers, proving that even in a familiar setting, there are always new stories to tell and fresh angles to explore.
🍿⭐ Reception & Reviews
## The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009): Reception and Reviews
The 2009 remake of “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three” starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta received a mixed reception, generally falling short of the acclaim garnered by the 1974 original.
**Critical Reception:**
* **Mixed Reviews:** Critics generally praised the performances of Washington and Travolta, particularly Travolta’s flamboyant portrayal of the villain, Ryder. However, the film was often criticized for lacking the tension, suspense, and gritty realism of the original. Many felt the remake relied too heavily on action and explosions, sacrificing the psychological cat-and-mouse game that made the original so compelling.
* **Pacing and Script Issues:** Some critics noted issues with the film’s pacing, arguing it felt rushed and didn’t allow enough time to develop the characters or build suspense effectively. The script was also criticized for being formulaic and predictable, lacking originality beyond updating the story to a contemporary setting.
* **Visual Style:** Tony Scott’s signature visual style, characterized by fast cuts, shaky camera work, and stylized editing, proved divisive. While some found it exciting and dynamic, others found it distracting and detrimental to the film’s storytelling.
**Key Critical Points:**
* **Rotten Tomatoes:** Holds a 51% rating based on 199 reviews, with the consensus being: “Denzel Washington and John Travolta give entertaining performances, but Tony Scott’s hyperkinetic direction adds little to this unnecessary remake.”
* **Metacritic:** Holds a score of 55 out of 100, based on 31 critics, indicating “mixed or average reviews.”
* **Roger Ebert (Chicago Sun-Times):** Gave the film 2.5 out of 4 stars, praising Washington and Travolta’s performances but noting the film lacked the tension of the original, stating: “The problem is not the story, but the telling.” He felt the film was more of an action movie than a suspenseful thriller.
* **A.O. Scott (The New York Times):** Criticized the film’s reliance on spectacle and its lack of psychological depth, stating it “sacrifices suspense on the altar of noisy, pointless spectacle.”
**Audience Response:**
* **Moderate Enthusiasm:** Audience reception was generally more positive than critical reception, but still fell short of being a major success. Many viewers enjoyed the performances and found the film entertaining, despite its flaws.
* **Commercial Performance:** The film was a moderate commercial success, grossing over $150 million worldwide on a budget of $100 million.
* **CinemaScore:** Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film an average grade of “B+” on an A+ to F scale.
**Notable Reviews (Excerpts):**
* **”The visuals are disorienting, the pacing is frantic, and the characters are broad and shallow.”** – *Variety*
* **”Denzel Washington and John Travolta make for a dynamic pairing, but the film ultimately lacks the depth and suspense of its source material.”** – *Hollywood Reporter*
* **”While it delivers action and thrills, ‘The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3’ never quite justifies its existence as a remake.”** – *Empire*
**Awards and Nominations:**
* The film received no major awards. It was nominated for a few minor awards recognizing its technical aspects, but did not win any.
**In Summary:**
“The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3 (2009)” is a visually dynamic and action-packed remake featuring strong performances from Denzel Washington and John Travolta. However, it was ultimately considered a lesser film than the original, criticized for its reliance on spectacle, lack of suspense, and a formulaic script. While audiences found it entertaining, critics generally felt it failed to capture the essence of the 1974 classic. The film’s legacy is as a decent, though ultimately unnecessary, remake that serves more as a vehicle for its stars than a compelling re-imagining of a classic thriller.