By-the-numbers...

Rating: 4/10 (16 October 2012)

Taken 2, a generic action/revenge thriller, is a ridiculously contrived sequel that exists solely due to the fact that the first installment unexpectedly made potloads of money at the box office. The first movie's kidnapping scenario is repeated, exception being that it's Neeson & his ex-wife Janssen who are captured this time around. Their daughter, Grace, then follows laughably specific (& complex) instructions from her father in order to help her parents escape. Shot in Istanbul, the gorgeous city is done a great disservice by showing only the dark back alleys & the grime & clutter instead of the more tourist friendly parts that could have added so much more allure. Every actor goes through the motions half-heartedly. The only thing to recommend are the occasionally diverting action sequences which, though reasonably well done, are reminiscent of (but inferior to) similar sequences in the very entertaining Bourne films. Makes the first film look like a masterpiece!