‘The Mongoose’ Review: Propulsive Pacing and Impressive Stunt Work Help Make This an Above-Average Liam Neeson Actioner
Liam Neeson plays a former Special Forces soldier who goes on the run after a confrontation with his ex-wife’s abusive boyfriend leaves the man dead. The review finds that *The Mongoose* turns this familiar thriller setup into a brisk chase film, with impressive stunt work making it an above-average entry in Neeson’s recent action films.
Ryan “Fang” Flanagan is pursued across the southern United States towards the Mexican border in a vintage Shelby Cobra, while a sympathetic highway patrol leader and a more aggressive Texas major close in. His veteran friends and other former service members help him evade capture, alongside the car’s digital concierge. The 98-minute film is directed by veteran stunt coordinator Mark Vanselow, but its basic plot, awkward war flashbacks and some clumsy dialogue draw criticism.
In short
- Liam Neeson’s fugitive thriller is built around high-speed car chases.
- Veteran stunt coordinator Mark Vanselow makes his directorial debut.
- The review praises the action but faults the story and dialogue.
Explained simply
Liam Neeson plays Ryan “Fang” Flanagan, a former Special Forces soldier whose past military service shapes the thriller’s story. After a confrontation with his ex-wife’s boyfriend ends in the man’s death, Fang flees across the southern United States towards the Mexican border.
Two law-enforcement officers pursue him: a highway patrol leader who is sympathetic to Fang and a Texas major who takes a tougher approach. Fang also gets help from former service members and the digital concierge in his vintage car. Directed by veteran stunt coordinator Mark Vanselow, the film combines a familiar chase story with action sequences that draw on his stunt experience.