“Retribution” (2023) – A High-Stakes Thriller with Liam Neeson

Retribution (2023) is an intense action thriller directed by Nimród Antal, starring Liam Neeson alongside Noma Dumezweni, Lilly Aspell, Jack Champion, Embeth Davidtz, and Matthew Modine. The film is a remake of the Spanish movie El desconocido (2015), following previous adaptations from Germany (2018) and South Korea (2021).

With a gripping premise, edge-of-your-seat tension, and another powerful performance from Liam Neeson, Retribution takes audiences on a high-speed, high-stakes ride where every second counts.

A Gripping Storyline

The movie follows Matt Turner (played by Liam Neeson), a financial executive living in Berlin. One morning, while driving his two kids to school, he receives a mysterious phone call. The unknown caller informs him that a bomb has been placed under his seat, and if he or his children leave the car, it will explode.

As Matt is forced to follow the commands of this unseen threat, he finds himself in a race against time to uncover the mastermind behind the scheme while keeping his family safe. At the same time, he must navigate suspicion from the police, who believe he may be involved in the deadly events unfolding around the city.

Liam Neeson – The Veteran Action Star

Liam Neeson has built a reputation for playing tough yet emotionally complex action heroes in films like Taken and Non-Stop. In Retribution, he once again delivers a strong performance as a man caught in a life-threatening situation, forced to make impossible choices to protect his loved ones.

Though the story follows a familiar formula, Neeson’s presence elevates the film, bringing depth and intensity to Matt Turner’s character—a man burdened by both external threats and his own past decisions.

Berlin as the Perfect Backdrop

Filmed primarily at Studio Babelsberg and on the streets of Berlin, Retribution uses the urban setting to heighten the tension. The city’s modern landscape adds a sense of realism and urgency, making the car-bound thriller even more claustrophobic and gripping.

Box Office & Reception

With a production budget of approximately $20 million, Retribution grossed around $18.7 million worldwide. While it did not dominate the box office, it attracted audiences due to Neeson’s star power.

Critical reception was mixed. Audiences polled by CinemaScore gave the film a grade of “C,” indicating an average response. Some reviewers praised Neeson’s performance but criticized the film’s predictable storyline and lack of innovation compared to similar thrillers.

Retribution may not reinvent the action-thriller genre, but it offers an engaging, high-stakes ride for fans of Liam Neeson and tense, suspenseful narratives. With fast-paced storytelling, thrilling car chases, and Neeson’s commanding screen presence, the film delivers solid entertainment for those seeking a gripping, adrenaline-fueled experience.

Check out the official trailer here: