Review: The Minuteman (2021)

The Minuteman (released as The Marksman in some regions) is a Liam Neeson-led action-drama that blends familiar tropes of the reluctant hero and road movie genres with themes of redemption and survival. Directed by Robert Lorenz, the film offers a mix of suspense, emotional moments, and modest action sequences, but its formulaic approach limits its impact.

Plot Overview

Jim Hanson (Liam Neeson) is a retired Marine turned Arizona rancher who lives a solitary life near the U.S.-Mexico border, struggling to make ends meet after his wife’s death. When he encounters Miguel (Jacob Perez), a young boy fleeing from a deadly Mexican cartel, Jim intervenes to protect him. Determined to honor a promise to Miguel’s dying mother, Jim embarks on a cross-country journey to escort the boy to safety. Pursued by cartel enforcers, including the ruthless Mauricio (Juan Pablo Raba), Jim must confront his own demons while defending Miguel.

Strengths

1. Liam Neeson’s Charisma: Neeson delivers a strong performance, embodying a weary but determined protector. His nuanced portrayal adds depth to the character of Jim.
2. Emotional Bond: The developing relationship between Jim and Miguel provides a heartfelt core to the narrative, offering moments of warmth amid the tension.
3. Scenic Cinematography: The film captures the sweeping landscapes of the American Southwest, adding a sense of scale and isolation to the story.
4. Grounded Action: The film’s action sequences are realistic and tense, emphasizing strategy and character stakes over spectacle.

Weaknesses

1. Predictable Narrative: The film adheres closely to the well-worn formula of the reluctant hero protecting an innocent, with few surprises along the way.
2. Underdeveloped Villains: The cartel antagonists lack depth and individuality, functioning primarily as generic threats.
3. Missed Themes: While the film touches on immigration, loss, and moral redemption, it doesn’t explore these themes in any significant depth.
4. Pacing Issues: The slow pacing, especially in the first half, might test the patience of viewers looking for more immediate thrills.

Final Thoughts

The Minuteman (The Marksman) is a serviceable action-drama that relies heavily on Liam Neeson’s screen presence to elevate its predictable story. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it provides enough tension, emotion, and gritty action to satisfy fans of Neeson’s recent work. It’s a solid, if unremarkable, addition to the “reluctant protector” subgenre.