Ransom
Remember when people didn't think Mel Gibson was an insane racist? Interestingly enough, people just thought he was crazy for awhile, then it progressed to crazy and racist. But, this isn't about all that fun, this is about the movie Ransom. Ransom has a simple plot, rich guy's son is kidnapped and instead of negotiating with them he goes all “tough love” Republican on their asses and puts a $2 million dollar bounty on their heads. Very biblical stuff.
Ransom pocketed, well a Ransom, I couldn't possibly be expected to help myself on that one, grossing over $280-$300 mil. Now part of that success can easily be traced to Gibson, who was one of the top five draws in 1996. However, the real star of the show is the original story, by Richard Maibaum, who penned numerous Bond films, and Cyril Hume. Richard Price and Alexander Ignon penned the screenplay which essentially modernized the story by Hume and Maibaum. This is an intelligent and well paced script that keeps the audience wrapped up in the film until the very end.
Combined with the fine story, the very strong cast, which included Rene Russo, Gary Sinise, Lili Taylor, Donnie Wahlberg and the often underrated Delroy Lindo and director Ron Howard's consistent directing style, Ransom works on nearly every level. As a suspense thriller Ransom is a solid film that befits greatly from the professionalism of the cast.
Ransom is one of those increasingly rare films that Hollywood might find difficult, but not impossible to greenlight a sequel. Yet, we all know that somewhere, out there in LA, there is probably a very weak script for Ransom 2 and maybe even Ransom 3.
Story B- (Its an old story, but Ransom is retold very well.)
Acting A
Visuals B+
Originality/Innovation B-
Enjoyability Grade B
Home Theater/HD Factor B
Overall Grade B
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