The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3

The original was better, but this is a worthy entry. Superstars make it watchable. I can't help it, I like John Travolta better as a bad guy that as a good guy. There is much about this character we can't really understand or appreciate, but you have to enjoy the performance.

Denzel Washington is part victim part suspect here, and he plays it well. As usual Denzel represents us all. "Everyman" is neither a saint nor a total scoundrel. It is the constant wavering between the two that allows us to relate to his characters. There are several obvious nods to Walter Matthew who played his character in the original.

John Turturro and James Gandolfini are great in their supporting roles here. For Gandolfini it must have felt like his Tony Soprano character had been elected Mayor of New York. Not too much difference. I found it a little hard to believe Turturro in the hostage negotiator role given some of his other work, but that is my problem, not his.

Now to the movie itself, this is best if you don't watch with too much of a critical eye on plot and continuity. Like the NY subway itself - it's easier to enjoy the ride if you don't focus too much on the details.

Watch this movie with a big pastrami sandwich like they serve at the Stage Door Deli, it might feel more real that way.