Review of Evasive Action (1998) by Gabriel Arthur P — 06 Mar 2015

If you enjoy Roy Scheider in a physically and technically difficult stunt film of decent quality, here you go. A couple of amateur performances don't manage to ruin what is actually a better train-bound thriller than Seagal's attempt.

The camera work is perfect, by the way, albeit dull. But you'll probably notice the hairdresser's work far more than the costumer's. The set is, of course, a cramped train interior. The seven or so leads and main supports do well enough.

Scheider plays villain, and Dorian Harewood is the unlikely but totally believable every man hero in this prison escape thriller. If the early on direct allusion to "Con Air" embarrasses you, then you better ignore Clint Howard's character who inappropriately parrots famous movie lines whenever he's on screen.

There's plenty here to embarrass but also plenty more to entertain and even to impress the technical critic. I wouldn't pass this up, especially if you've been disappointed by other train-bound thrillers and want one that really delivers.

"Evasive Action", 4/5.