Movie theaters are nearly dead here in the United States. While the COVID-19 pandemic is taking the blame, I believe it has more to do with Hollywood running out of ideas. All they have been pumping out for the last decade is bad remakes or CGI bloated superhero tales. Yes, I understand the latter makes money, but only a handful of these films are actually good. Then there are the artsy dramas that receive awards and get high praise from mainstream critics. Nobody in Hollywood will admit it, but these artsy movies are downright horrible. If a film isn't trending or doesn't contain a political message, the critics will more than likely give it a negative review. This is what happened with this year's action-thriller, THE MARKSMAN.
From director Robert Lorenz, THE MARKSMAN centers on an Arizona rancher, Jim Hanson (played by Liam Neeson), catching an 11-year-old migrant, Miguel (played by Jacob Peréz), and his mother sneaking across the border. Shortly after Jim reports them to the border patrol, a band of assassins sent by the drug cartel comes for them. After a brief shootout, the mother is killed in the crossfire, but not before she begs Jim to take her son to relatives in Chicago. While reluctant at first, Jim goes on a road trip to reunite Miguel with his family, which isn't easy to accomplish with the law enforcement and the drug cartel hot on their trail.
The budget for THE MARKSMAN was between $23-30 million and made only $22.5 million worldwide at the box office. Yes, many will call this flop, but you have to take in the fact the film was released back in January when most theaters were still closed. Universal Pictures Home Entertainment released the movie on Digital at the tail-end of April and Blu-ray and DVD on May 11th. There are no commentaries on the Blu-ray. The only feature is 'The Making of The Marksman.'
Final Thoughts
THE MARKSMAN is one of Liam Neeson's better outings in recent years. The media will label this as a typical action flick, but don't listen to them. It's a slow-burner drama with a few action scenes here and there. The film's rated PG-13, so don't expect to see a whole lot of blood, or you'll be highly disappointed. Liam Neeson gives a solid performance as an ex-Marine turned rancher who has fallen on harden times. The plot is simple as it gets - where the hero must protect a kid from the bad guys.
Predictable?
Yes, the story is a little predictable, but thanks to great directing, beautiful cinematography, and excellent performances, THE MARKSMAN has a lot more to offer than the typical Hollywood fare.
I agree with almost everything you said. I really enjoyed this movie!
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