Liam Neeson has carved out a unique niche in Hollywood as the go-to action hero for gritty, high-stakes thrillers. At 72, the Irish actor continues to defy expectations, delivering performances that blend raw intensity with a commanding screen presence. His latest offering, Honest Thief, a 2020 action thriller now streaming on Netflix in the UK and Ireland, is no exception. Touted as “hotter than The Equalizer and deadlier than John Wick,” this film combines Neeson’s signature brand of vengeance with a heartfelt love story and a jaw-dropping final twist that has audiences buzzing. Directed by Mark Williams, Honest Thief may not reinvent the action genre, but it delivers a satisfying dose of adrenaline, romance, and betrayal that Neeson fans will devour. Here’s a deep dive into why this film is stealing the spotlight on streaming platforms and why its climactic twist is leaving viewers speechless.
A Familiar Yet Compelling Premise
Honest Thief centers on Tom Carter (Liam Neeson), a former U.S. Marine and demolitions expert turned notorious bank robber, known as the “In-and-Out Bandit”—a moniker he despises for its lack of respect for his precision. Over the years, Tom has amassed $9 million from 12 banks across seven states, executing heists with surgical efficiency and never spending a dime of the stolen money. His life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Annie Wilkins (Kate Walsh), a quick-witted psychology graduate student working at a storage facility where Tom stashes his loot. Their chance encounter sparks a romance that changes Tom’s outlook, prompting him to leave his criminal life behind and turn himself in to the FBI in exchange for a lighter sentence.
However, Tom’s plan to go straight is derailed by corrupt FBI agents John Nivens (Jai Courtney) and Ramon Hall (Anthony Ramos), who see an opportunity to pocket Tom’s millions for themselves. When their scheme spirals out of control, they frame Tom for the murder of their superior, Agent Baker (Robert Patrick), setting off a high-octane chase across Boston. With Annie’s life in danger and his name tarnished, Tom must rely on his “particular set of skills” as an ex-Marine to clear his name, protect the woman he loves, and bring the corrupt agents to justice.
The premise is classic Neeson: a skilled protagonist wronged by corrupt forces, forced to unleash his deadly abilities to set things right. While critics have noted its familiarity, comparing it to Neeson’s earlier hits like Taken or The Commuter, the film’s blend of action, romance, and moral complexity elevates it beyond a mere rehash of past successes. As Empire noted, “The second half falls into familiar action tropes, but Honest Thief has some twists and turns, sly humour, and a refreshing feel for its characters that raises them beyond genre types.”
Neeson’s Unwavering Charisma
At the heart of Honest Thief is Liam Neeson’s magnetic performance. Despite being in his late 60s during filming, Neeson moves with the agility of a much younger man, delivering convincing fight scenes and explosive action sequences that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. His portrayal of Tom Carter is both ferocious and tender, balancing the grit of a seasoned criminal with the vulnerability of a man in love. Neeson’s ability to infuse even the most formulaic dialogue with gravitas is a testament to his skill, making every threat and emotional moment feel authentic. As Variety aptly stated, “Neeson never phones in a moment,” and his commitment to the role ensures that Honest Thief remains engaging even when the plot leans on clichés.
Neeson’s chemistry with Kate Walsh as Annie is a standout feature of the film. Walsh, known for her roles in Grey’s Anatomy and 13 Reasons Why, brings warmth and depth to Annie, making her more than just a damsel in distress. Their relationship feels genuine, grounded in the shared experiences of two divorcees looking for a second chance at love. Walsh herself described the dynamic as “a couple of people with a past, who have been around the block, then fall for each other in a very real way.” This emotional core gives Honest Thief a buoyancy that sets it apart from Neeson’s more straightforward action vehicles.
A Supporting Cast That Holds Its Own
The supporting cast adds significant heft to the film. Jai Courtney and Anthony Ramos shine as the corrupt FBI agents, with Courtney’s Nivens exuding a chilling opportunism that turns sociopathic, while Ramos’ Hall grapples with the moral weight of his actions. Jeffrey Donovan and Robert Patrick, as Agents Meyers and Baker, respectively, bring veteran gravitas to their roles, though their screen time is limited. Jasmine Cephas Jones, playing Hall’s wife Beth, adds a personal layer to the story, especially given her real-life connection to Ramos, her then-fiancé. The ensemble, while not given much depth, provides enough personality to keep the narrative engaging.
Action That Delivers, But Doesn’t Break New Ground
Honest Thief doesn’t skimp on action, offering car chases, fistfights, and explosions that leverage Tom’s demolitions expertise. Fans of Neeson’s action oeuvre will find plenty to enjoy, from a tense hotel brawl to a climactic showdown involving a meticulously rigged suburban house. However, the film’s action sequences, while competently executed, don’t push the boundaries of the genre. Critics like those at RogerEbert.com have called it “perfectly serviceable and utterly forgettable,” noting that the set pieces lack the visceral punch of Taken or the stylistic flair of John Wick.
Comparisons to The Equalizer and John Wick are inevitable, given the marketing tagline. While The Equalizer thrives on Denzel Washington’s methodical, almost surgical approach to violence, and John Wick dazzles with its balletic choreography, Honest Thief leans more on straightforward, gritty action. It may not be “hotter” or “deadlier” than its counterparts, but it delivers enough thrills to satisfy fans of the genre. The film’s Boston setting, shot in and around Worcester, Massachusetts, adds a grounded, urban backdrop that enhances the stakes of Tom’s mission.
The Final Twist: A Game-Changer
Without spoiling the details, the final twist in Honest Thief is a masterstroke that flips the narrative on its head. Unlike the predictable resolutions of many action thrillers, this twist adds a layer of complexity to Tom’s journey, forcing viewers to reconsider his motivations and the consequences of his actions. It’s a moment that ties together the film’s themes of redemption, betrayal, and justice, leaving audiences stunned and eager to discuss. The twist also underscores Neeson’s ability to carry emotionally charged scenes, as Tom grapples with the fallout of his decisions. As Empire hinted, the film’s “twists and turns” elevate it beyond genre tropes, and this final revelation is the pinnacle of that promise.
Critical Reception and Streaming Success
Honest Thief received mixed reviews upon its 2020 theatrical release, with a 39% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 109 reviews and a 46/100 score on Metacritic. Critics praised Neeson’s performance but criticized the film’s formulaic plot and lack of innovation, with The Guardian noting that “the film should be better” given its strong cast and premise. However, audiences have been far more forgiving, with 75% giving it a positive score on PostTrak and 53% saying they would recommend it. Fan reviews like “Anything Liam is in rocks” reflect the enduring appeal of Neeson’s action hero persona.
The film’s recent surge on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu in the U.S. (where it hit #5) and Freevee (where it climbed the Top 10) proves its lasting appeal. Released during the pandemic-era box office drought, Honest Thief grossed $31 million against a $31 million budget, barely breaking even. Yet, its streaming success shows that Neeson’s brand of action resonates with viewers seeking escapist entertainment. As HELLO! magazine put it, “If you are looking for escapism these days – and who isn’t? – Honest Thief is a genre picture that delivers pure entertainment.”
Why It Works (and Where It Falters)
Honest Thief succeeds as a vehicle for Neeson’s talents, blending action with a heartfelt love story that gives the film an emotional anchor. The chemistry between Neeson and Walsh, combined with the final twist, ensures that it’s more than just another action flick. However, its reliance on familiar tropes and lack of innovative action sequences hold it back from reaching the heights of The Equalizer or John Wick. Critics like those at TheOnlyCritic.com argue that the film feels like a “watered-down vehicle” that lacks the grit of Neeson’s best work, a sentiment echoed by those who find its plot preposterous.
For fans, though, these flaws are secondary to the thrill of watching Neeson do what he does best: growl, fight, and protect. The film’s 99-minute runtime keeps the pacing tight, and its focus on Tom’s redemption arc adds just enough depth to keep viewers invested. As Neeson himself noted in an interview with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the story’s bedrock is Tom’s desire to go straight for Annie, a motivation that resonates even amidst the gunfire and explosions.
A New Chapter for Neeson?
As Neeson hints at stepping away from action roles, with projects like the upcoming The Naked Gun reboot signaling a shift toward comedy, Honest Thief serves as a reminder of his dominance in the “geriaction” genre. While it may not be his finest hour, it’s a solid addition to his catalog, offering fans the high-octane thrills they crave with a touch of heart and a twist that lingers long after the credits roll.
Whether you’re a die-hard Neeson fan or simply in the mood for a no-frills action thriller, Honest Thief delivers enough punches, chases, and surprises to make it worth a watch. Stream it on Netflix in the UK and Ireland, and prepare to be floored by a finale that redefines Tom Carter’s journey. For those who love their action heroes with a side of redemption and a knack for blowing things up, this is one thief you won’t want to miss.
