Le protecteur

Enjoyable but in the end, sad film. Liam has a role where he can act his age, which is a plus (no sex with hot women half his age). You care about the characters. Sure, it is a bit contrived, but you need to have a story. But it has a bittersweet ending.

Many of the critical comments (and the relatively low rating) seem to revolve around the film not meeting a viewer's expectations. Fair enough, but it just underscores the flawed premise of the imdb ratings, which have grown increasingly unreliable. This film doesn't break new ground, but it is solid entertainment. Doesn't have enough action to make it an action thriller? Too bad. Taken on its own merits, it's watchable, reasonably compelling, and has great scenery. Liam Neeson is always good, and the kid and villain are quite good.

Liam Neeson's talent is wasted here. The story points are so predictable, with some being stupid. For someone who is alert to his surroundings (the hero lives on a border town), Liam's character never gave a thought as to how the bad guys keep ending up where they are. And to burn the cartel money while still basically on the run and the hero not having much money (he hasn't paid his mortgage for 6 months)!!?... Plain loco moves.

I thought it was a solid movie which is hard to find lately. Good mix of action, suspense, and drama.

The storyline was generic, but the acting was great/felt authentic. I liked how it didn't go overboard with the action.

I did not have high expectations but this was really good.

Felt more like a drama, similar to the mule in its tone.

7/10. Not your ordinary Liam Neeson action flick. I really liked the music.