Review of A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014) by David P — 16 Oct 2014

A WALK AMONG THE TOMBSTONES.

What a killer name. This movie indeed does have my man Liam Neeson strolling through the dead as his character Matt Scudder, an unofficial private detective, while investigating a murder, soon finds out that there are a number of deaths linked to the same perpetrator.

Well first things first, Neeson is awesome. 'Nuff said. Although he does at times put on a bit of a Brooklyn accent throughout the film, that comes and goes, and can be a bit distracting. But most of the time his original mesmerising voice busts through. The rest of the talent surrounding Neeson aren't really anything special. Scenes with his somewhat child sidekick, TJ, played by Brian 'Astro' Bradley are charming, but besides that nobody really puts in a memorable performance. Especially, Dan Stevens as Kenny, the guy that initially hires Neeson, his acting is cringeworthy.

The story is pretty slow to play out, but it suits the detective style of the movie. Neeson asks around a lot, searching for clues, so this means that there is a lot of talking about things happening and not so much showing of it. There were parts that dragged on a bit too much for my liking also.

The cinematography is great, Director of Photography Mihai Malaimare opts for a very 70's style that captures this narrative beautifully. And the action is brutal and drawn out. Fight scenes and gun fights feel real due to the choreography and sensational sound mixing. But for a detective movie they show the villain way too early, killing any tension or mystery that would have been there had they kept him back until the end.

Overall, A Walk Among the Tombstones is a solid action/thriller, but lacks the fun that Neeson's previous endeavours have delivered. There is a certain dullness to it that I just couldn't shake, maybe it takes itself too seriously? For fans of the big man, this is a must see on the big screen. But otherwise home video will suit it fine.

3/5.

'So are you gonna stab me with that big fucking knife?' - Matt Scudder.