Unknown

It was in 2008 that Taken was released. It featured Liam Neeson (as this film does) in a role quite unlike anything you would expect from him. It's already apparent and established that Neeson is an actor of worth, but in Taken, Neeson had an evocative presence as an action star. This carries over into 2011's Unknown. Neeson has an intensity about him that makes him quite a good action star as well. The film begins as many classic thrillers do. Neeson's Martin Harris is in Berlin with his wife Liz (January Jones) for a conference. He mistakenly leaves his suitcase at the airport, and as soon as they reach the hotel where they are to stay, Martin jumps back into a cab in order to retrieve the suitcase. On his ride back to the airport, a freak accident causes himself and the driver (Diane Kruger) to plow through a rail and into the river. During the fall, Martin hits his head. He is saved by the driver and falls into a four day coma. When he awakens, his memory is faulty and fractured. He knows that he is Martin Harris, but when he returns to the hotel, Liz says she doesn't know him and presents her real husband. As in all thrillers, trouble is afoot, and Martin kicks ass while investigating his own life. Brilliant actors Bruno Ganz and Frank Langella also make appearances as important side characters. But Unknown actually manages to elevate itself to a quite good thriller. Neeson simply works as an action star, the cinematography is first rate, and it is quite enjoyable to experience the twist. Better than average.
Unknown: ★★★