Same Good vs Bad with New Technology

Viewing John Travolta as a villain on-screen is unusual, particularly when the majority of his films roles have either made us laugh or cry. In Pelham, he’s evil─really evil as he portrays an angry psychotic white-collar felon who feels cheated by life and especially by the city of New York.Denzel Washington plays a calm ordinary guy, with a wife and child who prefers little drama in his life. When Denzel (Walter Garber) takes a call while on duty as a switch operator for the New York Subway system, Ryder informs him that he and his gang have hijacked a train, taken hostages and are demanding 10 million dollars from the city of New York. Yes, the stage is set for a ‘major drama day’ in Garber’s life.

“The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3” is a remake of the semi-classic film from 1974 starring the British actor Robert Shaw as the Ryder character and Walter Matthau as Garber.

Is the new Pelham better than the remake? In this case it’s basically the same film with updated technology. What I can tell you i s the new “Pelham” is louder, faster-paced with the addition of special effects and “French Connection” movie-driving; lots of crashes and car pile-ups.

Travolta as Ryder is very convincing in this role. When he delivers the line, “Life is simple now, you just have to do what I say,” to Garber and the message is chilling. Washington plays an everyday guy with a calm demeanor who is also credible. The casting of James Gandolfini as the mayor of New York is great due to contrast of his memorable role as Tony Soprano one of New Jersey’s most notorious TV mobsters. He also steps up to the plate in a tense scene with Ryder. The addition of one of the hostage’s computer web-cam that records all the action and is eventually streamed on the news is another example on updated technology.

The part of Mr. Grey (one of the gang members) has an interesting story as director Tony Scott, younger brother of director Ridley Scott wanted to cast a non-actor, a real-time bad guy. He worked with police scouring mug shots and came up with 6’4” Victor Gojcaj who was cast as Mr. Grey. The main condition is that Gojcaj would have to give up his life of crime. I’m sure members of SAG aren’t too happy with this casting decision, but at least one hooligan is off the streets. Luis Guzmánbest known as a comedic actor and most recently starring in the Chicago based film ”Nothing Like the Holidays” plays a member of the gang.

Other recognizable cast from the original include; Hector Elizondo (Princess Diaries 2001) as one of the gang, Doris Roberts (mother in the TV show ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’) as the Mayor’s wife, Jerry Stiller (Ben Stiller’s dad) as Lt. Patrone. What’s especially intriguing is Robert Shaw’s performance as the deeply disturbed Ryder. Shaw’s best known for his role as Quin in the mega-hit “Jaws.” The progression of communication and technology from the 70’s to current day technology is truly amazing.

All in all, I enjoyed the remake of a Pelham. The acting, script and new characters are all noteworthy. The ending is ‘pure Hollywood’ which most will take pleasure in.

Sarah Adamson © 2009