Liam Neeson takes another go around at being action star in this high action sequel.  The tables have turned as the family of CIA agent Bryan Mills’ Taken victims seek revenge.  Like the first Taken, I was highly impressed with the string of effortless fight scenes Liam was able to put together.  His older age strangely makes him more believable as an action star.  The overall acting is lukewarm, but then again, it is an action film.  Furthermore, the beautiful Istanbul backdrop provides  for a nice glaze over the critical acting eye.  All in all, Taken 2 brilliantly takes you on a thrilling ride without the glitz and glamour of most action films.  You will indeed find that the minimalist approach works here. 870