Review of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) by Prasad P — 05 May 2010
A tight, riveting drama-thriller that not only proves to be an edgy hostage movie but also a superb snapshot of 1970's New York - in all its colourful, eccentric glory. The inimitable Walter Matthau plays Lt.
Zachary Garber, a New York subway police officer confronted with the case of his life when hostages demanding ransom hold up a train. A stoic, calculating Robert Shaw plays chief baddie Mr. Blue, who seems to have everything planned to perfection.
What is most interesting about this film - which contains no great scenes of violence or action - is the way director Joseph Sargent controls the tension in the film purely through the drama created in the hostage standoff, using character and plot to move events along, instead of reliance of set-pieces or cheap thrills.
The film does not feel dated in its treatment of subject, with its keen eye in characterization and the society it depicts holding steady to this day.
This review of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) was written by Prasad P on 05 May 2010.
The Taking of Pelham One Two Three has generally received very positive reviews.
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