"The Old Man": Is It Just Liam Neeson Kicking Butt (Again)?
Okay, let's talk about *The Old Man*. It's got Liam Neeson. That usually means one thing: someone's getting punched. A lot.
But is it just that? I have… thoughts. Maybe unpopular ones.
The Basic Plot (Or: How to Ruin Retirement)
Dan Chase (Neeson) is, well, an old man. He's living off-grid. Think comfy cabin, cute dogs, and a past that's about to catch up with him.
Turns out, Dan did some shady stuff back in the day. Stuff involving the CIA and Afghanistan. Now, old ghosts are knocking at his door.
So, he's gotta go on the run. Cue explosions, fight scenes, and Neeson looking perpetually grumpy-but-competent.
My Hot Take: It's a *Bit* More Than Just Action
Look, I love a good Liam Neeson action flick. *Taken*? Classic. But *The Old Man* tries to be… deeper.
It wants to explore themes of regret and consequences. It wants us to think about the choices we make and how they haunt us.
Honestly? Sometimes I think it gets lost in the weeds. Too many flashbacks, too many shadowy figures whispering cryptic threats.
The Dogs: The Real Stars (Fight Me)
Okay, serious question: can we give the dogs an Emmy? They are the unsung heroes of this show. Seriously.
They provide emotional support. They look adorable. They are clearly better listeners than anyone Chase actually talks to.
Unpopular opinion alert: I'd watch a spin-off about the dogs. No Neeson required.
The "Thriller" Aspect: Is It Thrilling, Though?
The show bills itself as a thriller. There are definitely tense moments. People are constantly on the verge of getting shot or betrayed.
But sometimes, the plot twists feel a little… forced. Like they're trying *too* hard to be clever.
I find myself more invested in the relationships between the characters. Specifically, Chase's complicated connection with Amy Brenneman's character. That's where the real drama is, IMO.
Neeson's Grumbling: Is it a Character Choice, or Just Him Being Neeson?
Let's be real. Liam Neeson has a certain… persona. He’s the gruff, world-weary guy who’s seen it all.
Is he acting, or is he just being himself at this point? The line is blurred. And honestly? I'm not complaining. It’s comforting.
But sometimes, I wish he'd crack a smile. Just once. Maybe pet the dog a little more enthusiastically.
Final Verdict: Worth a Watch (But Maybe Lower Your Expectations)
So, is *The Old Man* a masterpiece? Probably not. Is it entertaining? Absolutely.
It's got action. It's got intrigue. It's got Liam Neeson punching people. What more could you want?
Just don't go in expecting a profound meditation on the human condition. Go in expecting a fun, pulpy thriller. And maybe bring a dog treat, just in case.
"The Old Man" - it's like "Taken," but with more back pain and existential dread. And dogs. Glorious dogs.
