2. Taken 2
The Release Date: October 5th, 2012
What Its Got Going For It: Liam Neeson. Need I say more? Id be willing to bet that just about all of the appeal that will goad some viewers to return to the cinema for this high-octane sequel is that Neeson is back for a follow-up to his most acclaimed film. Beyond that, though? This question leads me into the next section.
Why Its Already Doomed: The Hangover: Part II stands as perhaps the prime example of how mediocre word-of-mouth can spread to have an effect on overall box office accumulative sales. No matter what the star power of a blockbuster, there has to be a substantial reason for it to ever warrant a follow-up, and in this respect the original standalone piece Taken was severely lacking. The vast majority of loose ends in the first films narrative appeared to be wrapped up by its conclusion, which really does beg the question as to why weve got Taken 2 on their way. The obvious answer is of course this: its a cash-grab. But does anyone remember Unknown, the mystery thriller starring Neeson that released back in March 11? It performed decently in its opening weeks, yet the tide turned after a mixed reception faster than you can say Liam Neeson will find you. Its quite possible that the same fate awaits this predictable act of cynicism on the part of 20th Century Fox.