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Tom's Guide
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
One of Liam Neeson's most overlooked action-thriller movies is about to leave Prime Video — but you still have time to watch it
Sometimes the simplest ideas on paper are the most successful in practice. Take 2019's 'Cold Pursuit' as an example. This elevator pitch for this action-thriller movie is relatively straightforward: Liam Neeson on a revenge quest in snowy Colorado. And it's just as enjoyable as that premise makes it sound. Liam Neeson's credentials as an action movie star have been well established. Even since featuring in 2008's 'Taken,' the Northern Irishman has gone on to star in more thrillers than I can possibly list here. While some of these have been duds ('The Ice Road,' 'Blacklight'), when Neeson gets behind the wheel of a well-oiled project, the results are usually pretty darn compelling. 'Cold Pursuit' is one such example, and it's currently streaming on Prime Video. However, it won't be sticking around much longer as the movie is set to be removed from the streaming service's library next week, on May 31. That gives you just over a week to watch, and if you've enjoyed Neeson's action output in the past, this is one flick you should make the time to stream. Nels Coxman (Liam Neeson) is a hardworking snowplow driver and valued community member in the ski resort village of Kehoe, Colorado. He lives an honest life with his wife (Laura Dern), but his simple existence is shattered when his beloved son dies, and the circumstances are suspicious. Learning that his son was tangled up with a ruthless drug cartel, led by a psychotic criminal named Viking (Tom Bateman), he sets out on a revenge-fueled mission to put those responsible for this son's death under the ground (or under the ice in this case). As Nels becomes completely consumed by his bloodthirsty mission, he swaps his life of law-abiding for uncompromising vengeance, and finds himself caught in the middle of a deadly turf war between rival gangs. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. 'Cold Pursuit' is actually a remake of a Norwegian movie, 'In Order of Disappearance,' but in a rare move, the original director, Hans Petter Moland, returned to helm this English-language adaptation of his own original work. This gives 'Cold Pursuit' a greater sense of authenticity than some of the more cynical Hollywood reworks of international films. The material doesn't really challenge Neeson. He's done vengeful parent plenty of times in his career, and the whole good-guy-goes-bad shtick falls comfortably in his established wheelhouse. But the thing is, Neeson is such a magnetic presence on screen, and is so well suited to these types of roles, I just never tire of watching him methodically murder very bad men in brutal ways. Viewers who like their action-thrillers to be violent will also get a real kick out of 'Cold Pursuit,' because things get seriously bloody. Some of the kills are wince-inducing, and it most definitely earns its R-rating. A few of Neeson's other action efforts can be accused of being a little sanitized (likely for a more audience-friendly PG-13), but 'Cold Pursuit' is certainly not one of them. 'Cold Pursuit' is also surprisingly playful. This is a movie where you'll see people decapitated and quite literally fed to the fishes, but it has a real humorous streak. Naturally, it's very dark humor on offer here, but it's a mixture of tones that works surprisingly well. The movie's final death is a great example. I won't spoil it here, but it's violent, silly and sort of genius. However, I do wish the movie had made better use of its female cast members. Laura Dern has a supporting role as Nels' wife, and really feels like barely a bit part player. When you have somebody as supremely talented as Laura Dern in your cast, it's a real crime to give her so little to work with. Overall, the biggest appeal of 'Cold Pursuit' is watching Neeson switch from upstanding citizen to ruthless killer, and that's a role that few can do as well as the genre veteran. It's a simple idea, but it's well executed and the movie gives viewers exactly what it promises. As a reminder, 'Cold Pursuit' is set to leave Prime Video on May 31, so if the above has convinced you to add it to your watchlist, but sure to have it very top as you only have a limited time left to enjoy this compelling thriller on the Amazon-owned platform. Meanwhile, if you want some more Prime Video recommendations, here's a guide to the highest-rated movies added to the streaming service this month. If you want an alternative pick also featuring Mr. Neeson, be sure to check out 'In the Land of Saints and Sinners,' which might just be his finest work in the action-thriller genre to date. Watch "Cold Pursuit" on Prime Video until May 31, 2025
NZ Herald
10-05-2025
- Politics
- NZ Herald
Ruapehu mayoralty: Challengers emerge, Weston Kirton yet to confirm
'I have been a proud councillor for seven years and see that the time is right to offer my skills as leader of a strong council,' Neeson said. 'We have some serious problems and we need direction and fresh ideas. 'We also have massive opportunities that are not being realised.' Neeson said she was 'strong on financial accountability' and wanted to support all sectors of the Ruapehu District to succeed. A recent $700,000 out-of-budget overspend in parks and recreation highlighted the need for closer oversight of financial projects, she said. 'I'll focus on getting the basics right and ensuring our core infrastructure is managed and maintained, and I'll listen to the community.' In 2022, standing for local government for the first time, Hadley-Chase challenged former Mayor Weston Kirton and councillors Adie Doyle and Elijah Pue for the top job. She was unsuccessful – Kirton won – but was elected to one of the council's three new Māori ward seats. The first-term councillor told Local Democracy Reporting she aimed to bring 'self-determination for all' to the mayoral role. 'In just one term, I have learned many lessons and built many more relationships with people from all walks of life. 'I intend to serve them all and as mayor. That will give me the time and privilege to be able to do so.' Hadley-Chase said she was well known for 'rangatiratanga o ngā hapū me ngā iwi' (tribal self-determination). 'That iwi includes all people, not just Māori. Self-determination for all people.' Kirton, the incumbent, has not yet announced whether he will look to extend his mayoral reign. 'I haven't decided totally yet,' he said. 'I feel as though there's a lot of work to be done but I've got to consult.' The Ruapehu District brought Kirton back as mayor in 2022, more than 20 years after serving a two-term mayoralty from 1995 to 2001. He said the job was incredibly busy. 'I've done 60,000 kilometres in 18 months, but I've still got fuel in the tank. 'I enjoy getting out there and talking to people, trying to solve problems.' Deputy Mayor Viv Hoeta confirmed she will run again for a general ward seat on the council. Hoeta is serving her third term as a councillor and completing her first stint as Deputy Mayor. 'I am very involved in my community and understand the dynamics of working collectively for our district whilst ensuring the community I live in has a voice at the decision-making table,' she said. Councillor David Nottage said he was likely to make a bid for a fifth term as a councillor. 'I've got a lot of support for it and I like what I do. I'm happy just to be on the council and support whoever's the mayor in the best way possible for the district.' First-term councillor Brenda Ralph confirmed she would run again. 'As my first term included many issues that needed to be deliberated and consulted [on], the opportunity to provide more community-focused benefits was not possible,' Ralph said. 'If I am re-elected, I hope to provide more than just emotional support for our community but [also] a clear focus on getting the basics and needs for our district in place.' Councillor Janelle Hinch was undecided about standing again. 'Re-election would allow me to see important projects through to completion, building on the experience I have gained to push for policies and initiatives that matter to our communities,' Hinch said. 'However, the role comes with significant demands, time commitments and professional and personal sacrifices. I need to weigh these factors carefully before making a final decision.' Councillors Robyn Gram, Korty Wilson and Channey Iwikau did not respond when asked if they planned to run again.
Edinburgh Live
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Edinburgh Live
Netflix action film with huge actor has fans all saying the same thing
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info The Ice Road, penned by the American screenwriter behind hits like Jumanji, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and Armageddon, sparked high hopes among audiences, only to leave many feeling let down. The 2021 thriller showcases action veteran Liam Neeson as a North Dakota trucker embarking on a vital quest. Now at 72, the celebrated Irish thespian boasts a career peppered with memorable roles in films such as Schindler's List, the Taken franchise, Star Wars, and Love Actually. Still, even though Neeson's fans commend his acting in The Ice Road, they are not all that taken with the film itself. Critiquing the movie, one Rotten Tomatoes reviewer remarked: "Borderline embarrassing almost throughout. Predictable and clichéd. Possibly Neeson's worst film." The plot centers on a convoy of truckers navigating perilous frozen lakes and wintry paths to rescue miners from a caved-in diamond mine in Canada. Their travail is marred by numerous hazards including melting ice, fierce snowstorms, and the ever-present danger of the ice giving way beneath them. Disgruntled, a viewer commented: "One ridiculous impossible scene after another as these amateurs try to make a dramatic film. The really baffling thing is, why would an actor of the status of Liam Neeson lend his name and reputation to such horrid dreck?", reports the Mirror US. (Image: ALLEN FRASER/NETFLIX) Elsewhere, an individual commented: "A 'so bad it's good' disaster movie, but only just. Whilst the concept of having a rag-tag crew of big rig drivers embark on a noble mission against time and the extremes of nature to save those in peril holds some merit, the actual plot comes across as silly and very unrealistic." Although bypassing cinemas, the film carved its niche online with a digital release on Netflix, quickly becoming the most streamed title on the platform during its debut weekend. In a thrilling turn for fans, April 2023 brought news of a sequel, set to star Neeson once more, in what's been dubbed The Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky. Criticism wasn't absent, with one disgruntled critic remarking: "Liam is always worth a watch, but unfortunately the plot has many holes and implausible actions leading to a bit of a disappointing viewing. On a cold, rainy day it's worth a watch, but it's not popcorn worthy." However, opinions are, as always, divided. There are viewers who deemed the film a decent pick, one stating: "The film was gritty in places. I loved the bond between the brothers; shame one of them had to die. But it was well worth a watch, and I'd like to watch it again, which says a lot from me." Another expressed their appreciation: "Why the bad reviews? I am tired of car chases in big cities. This is no more unbelievable, and the setting is much more interesting." Fans eager for more of Liam Neeson's action can catch him in The Ice Road on Netflix now.
Daily Record
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Netflix action movie starring Liam Neeson has fans all saying same thing
The Ice Road is a 2021 disaster thriller film directed by Jonathan Hensleigh and starring Liam Neeson, Laurence Fishburne, Amber Midthunder, Marcus Thomas, Holt McCallany and Matt McCoy The new action thriller from the pen of the American writer behind Jumanji, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and Armageddon had audiences brimming with anticipation. However, The Ice Road, which hit screens in 2021 with Liam Neeson at the helm as a North Dakota truck driver on a vital mission, has left some viewers underwhelmed. Now 72, Neeson, whose storied career includes legendary films like Schindler's List, the Taken series, Star Wars, and Love Actually, has received acclaim for his personal performance. Yet, despite the praise for Neeson, The Ice Road has garnered less favourable reviews. A critic on Rotten Tomatoes remarks: "Borderline embarrassing almost throughout. Predictable and clichéd. Possibly Neeson's worst film." In The Ice Road, Neeson's character leads a group of truckers risking their lives over ice-laden lakes and stormy roads to rescue miners trapped in Canada. Their perilous quest pits them against melting ice, blinding snowstorms, and the looming danger of ice collapses. A disappointed viewer commented: "One ridiculous impossible scene after another as these amateurs try to make a dramatic film. The really baffling thing is, why would an actor of the status of Liam Neeson lend his name and reputation to such horrid dreck?", reports the Mirror US. One viewer said: "A 'so bad it's good' disaster movie, but only just. Whilst the concept of having a rag-tag crew of big rig drivers embark on a noble mission against time and the extremes of nature to save those in peril holds some merit, the actual plot comes across as silly and very unrealistic." Despite bypassing cinemas and being released digitally on Netflix, the film enjoyed its moment of glory, becoming the most streamed film on Netflix during its debut weekend. In April 2023, fans were thrilled to hear that a sequel is on the horizon, with Neeson confirmed to reprise his role in The Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky. Another critic expressed their disappointment: "Liam is always worth a watch, but unfortunately the plot has many holes and implausible actions leading to a bit of a disappointing viewing. On a cold, rainy day it's worth a watch, but it's not popcorn worthy." However, opinions are divided, with some viewers still recommending the film. One person said: "The film was gritty in places. I loved the bond between the brothers; shame one of them had to die. But it was well worth a watch, and I'd like to watch it again, which says a lot from me." Someone else defended the film, stating: "Why the bad reviews? I am tired of car chases in big cities. This is no more unbelievable, and the setting is much more interesting." Fans of Liam Neeson can catch him in The Ice Road, currently available for streaming on Netflix.
Irish Independent
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
‘I soaked him in like a sponge' – Pamela Anderson says Naked Gun co-star Liam Neeson is a ‘legend'
The Irishman plays the role of Lt. Frank Drebin Jr in the sequel, alongside Anderson who plays a woman named Beth in the film. The Naked Gun franchise began with the Police Squad! series in 1982 before it became a film franchise, famous for sending up cop drama tropes and ridiculous visual jokes led by the late Leslie Nielsen. Originally billed as a reboot, the sequel coming this summer and starring the Taken actor will instead serve as a continuation of the series as Neeson plays the son of Nielsen's famous character. Speaking about Neeson and working with him in a comedy movie, as opposed to one of his more familiar action roles, the former Baywatch actress said she had a hard time keeping a straight face at times. She also spoke about their relationship on set, saying Neeson was "mysterious', 'inspiring' and the 'true gentleman', a sentiment the 72-year-old Ballymena man previously shared last year when he admitted he was 'madly in love' with his co-star. Anderson also said Neeson was "electric in a way'. "Our chemistry was clear from the start,' Anderson told Entertainment Weekly. "We have the utmost respect for one another. "He is a legend and deserving of the title. "I also baked my sourdough bread for therapy and regularly shared with him, along with cookies and muffins. "We had many dinners out with the cast. "I invited him and his assistant over for romantic dinners with me and my assistant so our relationship stayed 'professionally romantic' during filming. "I am in awe of him, his experience, and work ethic. ADVERTISEMENT "I soaked him in like a sponge.' The original Naked Gun movie raked in $152.4 million on a budget of $12 million. Rumours of another film had circulated since 2009, with reports stating that The Naked Gun: What 4? The Rhythm of Evil was in development, before being put on the back burner following the death of Nielsen in 2010. The return was confirmed by Paramount Pictures in 2013, but the project seemed to have been forgotten until October 2022 when the film was officially greenlit with The Lonely Island's Akiva Schaffer directing. Speaking about the movie, Anderson added: "It is the same depth of process for a high comedy as it is for a drama. "I worked hard on the role, another cathartic experience. Every film, it seems, tackles a deep-seated issue that needs to be expressed and surfaced in ways other than anything else. "I'm hoping people love it. We had so much fun making it. I think it's timely for a beloved comedy like this. I'm a fan of the originals. As Liam says: 'We could all use a good giggle.' I pray we do more.'
