Absolution, the latest offering starring Liam Neeson, carries a familiar narrative that encapsulates the aged gangster trope. At first glance, the film appears to be another formulaic attempt to explore redemption through a lens typically reserved for male anti-heroes. While Neeson’s ability to command the screen remains undeniable, the film struggles under the weight of its own clichés and predictability, leaving audiences questioning its narrative integrity.
The plot revolves around Neeson’s character, referred to only as Thug, who finds out he has a terminal illness. This revelation serves as the catalyst for his quest to mend broken family ties, specifically with his estranged daughter, Daisy. While this character journey is familiar territory in cinematic narratives, it presents a missed opportunity for deeper exploration. Rather than diving into complex emotional landscapes, the film skirts over major themes, trading nuance for a rush to foster some resolution before the credits roll. The character of Daisy, played by Frankie Shaw, is more of a symbolic placeholder than a fully realized person, thus reducing her story arc to a mere vehicle for Thug’s redemption.
One of the film’s significant weaknesses resides in its treatment of secondary characters. The portrayal of sex workers and LGBTQ individuals often veers toward the exploitative, reducing them to plot devices rather than presenting them as multidimensional characters with their realities. For instance, Daisy’s profession as a stripper is introduced with minimal context, and while her struggles as a single mother are highlighted, they feel overshadowed by the overwhelming focus on Thug’s self-redemption. This superficial handling leaves the viewer craving a more substantial narrative on the lives of these characters, suggesting that their stories were sacrificed in favor of Thug’s personal journey.
Thug’s estranged relationship with his son adds another layer to the storyline—a discovery that is shockingly devoid of emotional weight. His son’s past struggles with addiction culminate not in an exploration of grief but rather an afterthought alongside Thug’s attempts to confront his own failures. This abrupt revelation feels like a narrative shortcut, and though the acknowledgment of his son’s sexuality is a step forward, it is discussed in a dismissive manner, reinforcing harmful stereotypes rather than dismantling them.
From a structural standpoint, the film falters with excessive subplots that are poorly integrated. Instances of human trafficking, for instance, are thrown in haphazardly as Thug’s conscience awakens. Unfortunately, these storylines serve more as shock value than substantive commentary on moral responsibility. The film misses an opportunity to deeply engage with these topics, opting instead to treat them as mere side notes on Thug’s rampage toward redemption.
The film also suffers from pacing issues, as it delves into action sequences that, while visually striking, lack the corresponding emotional resonance needed to elevate them. With a runtime of 122 minutes, Absolution meanders in its execution, making the viewer restless. Moments that could have packed an emotional punch feel diluted, leaving the audience with scenes reminiscent of classic action films rather than a thoughtfully crafted narrative.
Absolution offers beautiful cinematography of Boston and strong performances from Neeson and the supporting cast, but ultimately fails to deliver a compelling, cohesive story. The exploration of themes such as redemption, familial estrangement, and moral reckoning is marred by overused tropes and underdeveloped characters. Instead of inspiring audiences, it leaves them feeling as though they’ve witnessed a lackluster rehashing of a tired plot.
It’s a film that invites criticism for its superficial treatment of complex issues. For those seeking a profound exploration of redemption, personal struggle, and the lingering effects of past mistakes, Absolution disappointingly proves to be a missed opportunity. Perhaps it would have been wiser for filmmakers to reconsider their approach and strive for a narrative that competently balances its action with authentic character development.
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