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The Commuter backdrop

The Commuter

19 January 2018English1h 45m
out of 10
Mixedlukewarm or divided
Monk Score · 8 scored reviews · 1 not rated

Neeson keeps it watchable, but the predictable plot never leaves the station.

Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: Neeson's presence and pacing
  • Criticised: Predictable and clichéd narrative

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Critic consensus

What 9 critics are saying

Critical reception for The Commuter is mixed, leaning toward mild disappointment. Several reviewers acknowledged it as a competent, fast-paced thriller with Neeson's screen presence and the Collet-Serra direction holding the film together, while a few praised its suspense and twists. However, common criticisms include a predictable and clichéd narrative, a poorly justified train setting, and the film's overall failure to rise above formulaic B-grade action fare. A handful of critics dismissed it outright as disposable January entertainment.

How the 8 scores spread

1 not-rated review isn't plotted

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 9 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (9)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    Clocking in at a crisp 100 minutes, The Commuter is a well-executed old-fashioned thriller that doesn't skimp on suspense or visceral action. Just don't expect anything more. I'm going with three out of five.
  2. Top critic

    Indian Express

    Film review ·

    After a lot of fighting and punching, little of which has got to do with why this story was set on a train, the film makes its way towards a conclusion that many would have long guessed.
  3. Top critic

    Firstpost

    Film review ·

    January is most known for being Hollywood's trash can and the only thing The Commuter succeeds in doing is solidifying this stereotype.
  4. Fully Hyderabad

    Film review ·

    Watch The Commuter for what may just be Liam Neeson's last time on-screen as an action hero, but oh, what a glorious ride it could have been, if only.
  5. Hindustan Times

    Film review ·

    Without spoiling anything, I regret to inform you that as usual, the mystery was ruined for me based only on the casting. If you get the hint, then you understand what a pain this trend is, but if you don't, lucky you.
  6. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    Director Jaume Collet-Serra, who has teamed up with Neeson for the fourth time for the big screen, does a fine job of keeping the viewer engrossed thanks to a taut script, unexpected twists and turns, and solid performances by the lead actors. There is rarely a moment when the film loses momentum and you're left guessing till the end. Overall, if you're in the mood for some intrigue and mystery, and of course, are a Neeson fan, this one makes an interesting watch.
  7. Sify

    Film review ·

    Overall, despite a cliched and overexposed narrative that weighs it down, the film delivers precisely what fans of the action star expect, a B-grade entertainer.
  8. Gulf News

    Film review ·

    The old equation of man-plus-locomotive has been a dependable one for the movies since Buster Keaton rode the rails in The General. (See also: Burt Lancaster in The Train, and Denzel Washington in Unstoppable.) The Commuter isn't in that class, but there are worse tickets to punch, especially in January. Such a woeful time of year for new releases warrants repeating the old warning: If you see something, say something.

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