Taken 2 (Unrated Cut)

This sequel barely uplifts itself from the predecessor blueprint as the acting is wooden, writing is pedestrian, editing is choppy and the cast looking like they would rather be attending a traveling clown rodeo in Tucson.

A lazy, cynical film made for one reason only: to part you from your hard-earned cash. That all said, it holds one's attention surprisingly well.

A sequel to a surprise but modest hit has no right to be this lackluster.

More of the same, but what's in its favor, is Neeson's never-failing man's man toughness, which goes a long way in making for an entertaining film.

The follow-up has less action, less energy, less Liam Neeson awesomeness - in other words less of everything that people liked about the first one.