Sidewalks On The Corner

Based on the novel by John Godey, “The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3” is revisited again in film (first as a 1974 film starring Walter Matthau and as a 1998 TV-movie remake with Edward James Olmos), but this time with new players. Denzel Washington and John Travolta star in this remake that may do the original some justice.

Follow up:

The Taking Of Pelham 1 2 3
Columbia Pictures
Directed by Tony Scott
Starring Denzel Washington & John Travolta

Movie Synopsis:
"In The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3," Denzel Washington stars as New York City subway dispatcher Walter Garber, whose ordinary day is thrown into chaos by an audacious crime: the hijacking of a subway train. John Travolta stars as Ryder, the criminal mastermind who, as leader of a highly-armed gang of four, threatens to execute the train's passengers unless a large ransom is paid within one hour. As the tension mounts beneath his feet, Garber employs his vast knowledge of the subway system in a battle to outwit Ryder and save the hostages. But there's one riddle Garber can't solve: even if the thieves get the money, how can they possibly escape?

Denzel Washington stars in Columbia Pictures' action thriller THE TAKING OF PELHAM 123. Photo By: STEPHEN VAUGHAN

What J.P. Liked:
“Pelham 1 2 3” is a simple and quick watch. It's not bogged down with a complicated story line that leaves you daze and confused. It's a good old fashioned, by the book hostage film. Bad guys take over a subway car, and hold some people hostage. To add suspense and spice to the story, the head bad guy, Ryder (Travolta) make some stiff demands, mainly a request for money in trade for hostages. Walter Garber (Washington) is on the receiving end of those demands and is trying his best to keep the hostages alive. That sounds pretty straight forward. What's interesting is how the story plays out.

To be honest “Pelham 123” was enthralling from beginning to end. What kept my interest is the reasoning behind Ryder asking for a specific amount of money. He bases his amount using the hostages as a commodity. The pace quickens, as Ryder offers an ultimatum, that if his request aren't met, he will start killing his captives.

Some nice comedic moments sprinkled through out; it helps break up the monotony. Some light touches of action were added, with car crashes and gun fights, just for the thrill.

What J.P. Didn't Like:
Again the ending here was too simple. I felt the outcome wasn't justified enough. I expected Travolta's character to do something much more sinister to earn his "just deserts."

John Travolta in Columbia Pictures' action thriller THE TAKING OF PELHAM 123. Photo By: RICO TORRES

Cast:
I can tell Travolta loves playing the bad guy. His cynical, almost comical interpretation of Ryder felt a little over done at certain point. However, he meant business as he followed through with his threats in a methodical sinister fashion.

It's nice to see Washington in a slightly low key role. Washington is able to play the hero in an unconventional way. He packed on a few pounds and sported a beard just to look like the average working man. Yet he still managed to pull off the hero role nice.

J.P.’s Final Thoughts:
Over all, “The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3” wasn't the most spectacular thriller/suspense film of the year; however, it did what it set out to do. With that said it was entertaining enough with a somewhat satisfying ending. Not a bad effort.

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J.P. Langston is a member of "Sidewalks Entertainment" team primarily as a videographer. He loves movies, especially sci-fi horror and action comedies. Some of his favorite films include "Blade Runner" "The Matrix Trilogy," The (original) "Star Wars," "Equilibrium," "Serenity," "Kill Bill Vols 1 and 2," "Appleseed," "Unbreakable" and "Sin City." He has a large DVD collection, which is still growing. Since reviewing films for "Sidewalks," he has been expanding his palette for all types of films.