Liam Neeson might not have embarked on his career as an action icon, yet he is firmly recognized as one today. His filmography from the ’90s and early 2000s showcases an array of genres, including titles like Rob Roy (1995), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), and Batman Begins (2005). However, he also gained acclaim for his performances in non-action roles, such as his unforgettable turn in Schindler’s List (1993) and the romantic comedy Love Actually (2003). The trajectory of Neeson’s career altered dramatically with the release of Taken in 2009.
Taken ignited a franchise with two sequels, though they didn’t achieve the same acclaim. This film charted a distinctive course for Neeson, propelling him into the realm of mid-budget action films where he often serves as the centerpiece. Key titles in this resurgence include Unknown (2011), The Grey (2011), Non-Stop (2014), A Walk Among the Tombstones (2014), Cold Pursuit (2019), The Ice Road (2021), and In the Land of Saints and Sinners (2023). While many of these action flicks have passed under the radar, one, in particular, has recently gained newfound traction.
Revival of Interest: *Run All Night* on Netflix
*Run All Night* Rises in Netflix’s Rankings
Fast-forward to now, and *Run All Night* is enjoying considerable success on Netflix’s U.S. top 10 list nearly a decade after its debut. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the film features Neeson as Jimmy Conlon, a mob enforcer whose loyalties become conflicted between his estranged son and his lifelong friend, mob boss Shawn Maguire, played by Ed Harris. Although it garnered mixed critical reception at the time, earning a modest box office of $71 million against a $50 million budget, recent data indicates a notable resurgence.
During the week of December 2 to December 8, *Run All Night* soared in popularity, securing the fifth spot on Netflix’s U.S. rankings. It outperformed several films such as Little (2019) and Transformers (2007), yet it was edged out by newer entries like Our Little Secret (2024) and Subservience (2024).
|
U.S. Netflix Top 10 Movies List (Dec. 2 – 8) |
|
|---|---|
|
1 |
Our Little Secret |
|
2 |
Subservience |
|
3 |
That Christmas |
|
4 |
Faster |
|
5 |
Run All Night |
|
6 |
Little |
|
7 |
Mary |
|
8 |
Transformers |
|
9 |
Midway |
|
10 |
We’re the Millers |
Interestingly, *Run All Night* is only a hit in the U.S. market, showcasing a unique appeal that differs from its initial worldwide reception.
Implications of *Run All Night*’s Netflix Popularity for Neeson
Neeson’s Continued Appeal as a Leading Man
Despite a lackluster performance at the box office, *Run All Night* carries a middling 59% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with audience ratings slightly lower at 56%. The film’s resurgence on Netflix highlights Neeson’s enduring status as a compelling lead. Although he may not draw audiences to theaters, his presence on a streaming service often promises at least a moderately entertaining action experience.
At 72 years old, Neeson has expressed intentions to retire from action roles in the near future, citing concerns about the believability of continued performances at his age. However, a rich catalog of films remains for fans to explore, ensuring his contributions to the genre endure through streaming platforms. While *Run All Night* may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it stands as an engaging thriller featuring Neeson’s dependable performance and noteworthy action sequences—and perhaps that’s all it needs to be.
Source: Netflix
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