THE TAKING OF PELHAM 123

Plot:

In this remake of the 1974 film The Taking Of Pelham 123 , Denzel Washington plays transit coordinator Walter Garber who is under investigation for bribery charges. While working as the chief dispatcher for the subways he receives a call from someone who calls himself Ryder (Travolta) who has taken hostages on the train Pelham 123. Demanding that the Mayor (Gandolfini) fork over 10 millions or he along with his three assistants will begin killing the hostages. Ryder, enjoying the conversations with Garber, eventually demands that Garber brings the money down to the subway to him as chief negotiator Camonetti (Turturro) try to figure a way to foil the gangs criminal intent.

Reel Talk:

Director Tony Scott who is no stranger to action thrillers and who has worked with Denzel on a few films, brought his masterful touch to this remake. The action is intense and with the combination of Washington and Travolta, this is a good movie. Travolta being the great actor he is, seems to really put in his best work a villain He has played several bad guy roles and he does not hold back in this portrayal as Ryder. Luis Guzman as henchman Phil Ramos is always a character that will provide a few laughs.This is a good action thriller with a great cast. I just caught the original version with Walter Matthau and it was also good but it will help you appreciate the more updated remake.

Starring: Denzel Washington, John Travolta, Luis Guzman, John Turturro and James Gandolfini
Directed by: Tony Scott
Rated: R

I give it 4 corn dogs

By: Corndog - The Reel Hustler