Cook review: You’ll be taken with Liam Neeson’s latest thriller

It’s so nice to see Liam Neeson in a solid film set in Ireland, where he draws on his tough-guy strengths and action-hero resume.

“In the Land of Saints and Sinners,” directed by Robert Lorenz, is a solid thriller with a nice touch of action. It’s set in 1970s Belfast, during the Troubles. Doireann McCann (Kerry Condon) is among a group of freedom fighters who set off a bomb that kills two innocent bystanders.

‘In the Land of Saints and Sinners’ (IMDb)

They decide to take up residence in a coastal town where Finbar Murphy (Neeson) is a hit man considering retirement from his assignments for Robert McQue (Colm Meaney.) Finbar’s police officer friend Vincent (Ciarán Hinds) hasn’t figured out the connection.

Finbar, who plants a tree every time he kills someone, has decided his forest is complete … and then he realizes a young woman and child possibly are being abused.

Whether it’s carrying a light-saber or toting a gun, Neeson remains a menacing presence when he sees evil seep into the lives of the innocent.

There are some chilling scenes that don’t involve gun play but nevertheless provide enough tension to make you shudder.

One in particular involves the character of Doireann in a home where she doesn’t belong. This scene kept me on the edge of my seat with its cat-and-mouse dialogue and direction.

This is an engaging ensemble, with commendable performances all around. The environments are gorgeous. The beautiful landscapes contrast with the ugliness of violence that simmers in nearly every sequence.

Diego Baldenweg, Nora Baldenweg and Lionel Baldenweg composed the gorgeous score that reflects the Celtic roots of the story. It’s one of the prettiest scores I’ve heard in years – the kind of music I’m used to hearing about come awards season at year’s end. The music in the pub scenes adds to the enchantment of the setting.

Neeson fans are sure to be taken with this one.

3 1/2 stars
Running time: One hour and 46 minutes.

Rated: R for foul language and violence.

Watch the trailer here.

Opens Thursday at Cinemark, Davenport.

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