The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

Most heist films usually rely on a lot of shoot 'em up action and fast-paced music. (One can only imagine the budgets for them.) It's frustrating when they overwhelm the whole film.

That's not the case with Joseph Sargent's The Taking of Pelham One Two Three. (Thank God.) Indeed it does rely on said action and music, but fortunately it's only every small occasion. The majority of the film relies mostly on these things: acting, suspense and a damn good plot.

Walter Matthau stars as Garber, a police lieutenant for the New York City Transit Authority. Matthau usually played a number of cranky members of society, and Garber is no exception. His bone dry commentary is what makes his performance stand out the most.

This show, however, belongs to Robert Shaw as "Mr. Blue". (Yes, that's where Tarantino got that idea for Reservoir Dogs.) He's a silent predator, always calculating. To think this is the same man who played Quint the following year.

In short, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three is awesome. Along with Matthau and Shaw's performances, a key feature is David Shire's slick score. You want an action flick? Here's you best bet.

My Rating: *****