An Enjoyable Yet Unremarkable Thriller

Rating: 5/10 (31 October 2019)

Unknown is a stylish, atmospheric film, yet it is not particularly memorable. It has a pretty effective opening, setting up an intriguing mystery for which the plot of this movie is based around.
The film boasts a fantastic cast including supporting roles for veterans Frank Langella and Bruno Ganz. Both actors are the best aspects of the movie and would have been nice to have seen more from them. Liam Neeson is a very entertaining screen presence as usual. He is a reliable lead and is enjoyable to watch. January Jones has the look of a classic Hitchcockian blonde, but unfortunately, she has very little to do.
While the movie is filled with these great actors, the characters they play are pretty standard. They lacked any real depth, as did the film itself. While Neeson and co-star Diane Kruger are never unlikeable, there is an emotional distance between their characters and the audience.
The tone of this movie is sombre, yet the plot is quite silly. It also features some over the top action, which didn't fit with this tone, including scenes in which Kruger's taxi driver fights against professionally trained bodyguards.
Overall, this is a solid thriller. It is well made and features an interesting central mystery. Unfortunately, it is unremarkable and not very rewatchable.