Review of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) by Frank M — 13 Jun 2009

Okay got to see this film the night after seeing the new remake and I have to say I was digging the old version quite a bit until the ending. I won't let anyone on but Shaw's Ryder goes out in an underwelming thud.

However based on seeing this original it does clear up some plot descisions made in the remake. I think Tony Scott and the writers went out of their way to kill off or adjust characters in order to keep the ending fresh and not just a direct copy.

I love Shaw in other menacing roles such as From Russia with Love and even as Quint in Jaws(Where he's frightening and great.) Here he seems muted and reserved and I was hoping to see a dash of craziness that Travolta uses in the newer version of the character.

Walter Mathaeu does a great job as the transit cop and is forever likable. Again however I find myself liking the decision to go for a more working man role for Denzel Washington's Garber. All I am hearing on the interwebs is how superior this original version is, and to that I say: No! Taken from someone born in the 80's and having seen the '09 version first, I think the filmakers actually improved upon the first film and made a great version of it.

Is the remake perfect? No! But, niether was the original folks. They can both stand together, and apart, as good heist movies.