It’s shaping up to be “Taken” with a splash of “Speed” vibes.
Can’t the baddies in action films ever learn? Crossing Liam Neeson, especially when his family is involved, is a recipe for disaster. Yet, here we are again, this year with “Retribution”. From the makers of “Non-Stop” and “The Commuter”, Neeson is no stranger to high-adrenaline scenes. This time, he’s back with an adventure that involves a different mode of transport.
The plot revolves around Matt Turner, portrayed by Neeson, a father and a banker with a past that’s not all roses. An ordinary day with his son (Jack Champion) and daughter (Lilly Aspell) takes a perilous turn when a cryptic caller reveals a bomb in Matt’s car. The ensuing race against time is reminiscent of “Taken”, “Speed”, and “Die Hard with a Vengeance”.
For a detailed lowdown on the film, including its cast, sneak peek, release, and more, here’s your guide to “Retribution”.
Release Date
Hold onto your seats! Liam Neeson’s thrilling ride “Retribution” is set to premiere on Friday, August 25, 2023. Its release week is poised to be a competitive one, flanked by releases like DC’s “Blue Beetle” and the offbeat comedy “Strays”.
Where to Watch
“Retribution” is a theater-exclusive, as the trailer indicates. So, fans eager for their dose of Neeson action should head straight to the nearest movie theater. As of now, Lionsgate hasn’t hinted at any VOD or streaming releases.
What is the Plot of Retribution?
The first teaser of “Retribution”, released on June 28, 2023, sets the tense mood of the film. A casual drive swiftly turns perilous as an explosive situation (quite literally) unfolds. The challenges thrown at Turner heighten as he races against time, becoming a law enforcement target in the process.
Who Stars in Retribution?
While Liam Neeson takes the center stage, he’s joined by a stellar ensemble. “Avatar: The Way of Water” star Jack Champion plays Neeson’s son, with “Wonder Woman” alum Lilly Aspell as his daughter. Other notable members include Embeth Davidtz, Matthew Modine, Noma Dumezweni, Arian Moayed, and Emily Kusche. And the question remains: which of them is the devious bomber?
What is the Plot of Retribution?
Matt Turner’s seemingly mundane drive turns deadly when an anonymous caller plants a bomb in his car, forcing him on a life-threatening quest across the city. With his children’s lives at stake, Matt’s race against time gets increasingly treacherous. This plot is reminiscent of the 2015 Spanish film “El Desconocido”, and its 2018 German counterpart “Don’t. Get. Out!”.
Behind the Scenes
Lionsgate Studios, known for action-packed franchises like “The Hunger Games” and “John Wick”, is bringing “Retribution” to theaters. The director’s chair is occupied by Nimród Antal, known for “Predators” and “Metallica Through the Never”. The script is penned by Ward Parry and Christopher Salmanpour.
The film also boasts talents like composer Harry Gregson-Williams, cinematographer Flavio Martínez Labiano, and editor Steve Mirkovich.
Past Adaptations
Interested in the original? “El Desconocido” is available on VOD for rent or purchase. Sadly, “Don’t. Get. Out!” isn’t available for streaming yet.
