This essay is aimed at discussing the film Taken directed by Pierre Morel. In particular, it is necessary to analyze the content of this movie and its theme. On the whole, one can speak about the desperation of a father who must rescue his daughter.
Much attention should also be paid to the role of music in this cinematographic work. To a great extent, it reflects the inner world of the characters and enables viewers to sense their emotions. Furthermore, this element is important for creating the atmosphere of suspense and urgency. These are the main questions that should be examined more closely.
Taken tells the story of a former CIA agent Bryan Mills who attempts to rescue his daughter from human traffickers. It should be noted that Bryan tries to establish a closer relationship with his daughter Kim. Yet, she is kidnapped by people who want to sell her into sexual slavery.
In turn, the main character is forced to start the independent investigation in order to discover a network of gangsters who sell girls to wealthy clients.
These elements of the narrative are the most critical ones. In terms of its plot, this film can be viewed as an action film. However, it also throws light on the experiences of a parent who has to fight against heavy odds in effort to protect his only child. This is one of the aspects that can be identified.
This film explores several important themes. One of them is the relationship between a father and a daughter. It should be noted that for a long time, Bryan did not have an opportunity to be near Kim. He wants to become a good parent who can win the trust of his daughter, but she is kidnapped.
At this moment, Bryan understands that he may lose a person who is most dear to him. In this case, one should focus on the performance of Liam Neeson since this actor is able to reflect the main character’s desperation and his willingness to reunite with Kim.
Moreover, one can see that this person will stick at nothing in order to achieve this goal. For example, he is ready to torture other people, but this behavior can be explained by stress and willingness to punish those individuals who deprived him of his daughter. This is one of the points that can be made.
This movie can throw light on other important theme, namely the dehumanization of an individual. People are accustomed to thinking that every human being has an intrinsic value that cannot be measured. In turn, the authors of this film show that people can be treated as mere objects that can be put up to action.
Such individuals are able to turn human trafficking into a commercial activity that generates significant sums of money for them. Yet, they completely disregard the moral flaws of their behavior. Bryan must confront these people in order to save Kim.
Thus, the film-makers examine important ethical questions that should not be overlooked because they can affect thousands of people throughout the world. So, this theme is an important for understanding this movie.
It is also critical to discuss the way in which music supports this film. In this case, it can be viewed as non-diegetic sounds whose source cannot be identified or deduced. First, one can say that the soundtracks enhance the sense of suspense. To a great extent, they help the authors show that the protagonist is exposed to mortal danger. Moreover, it highlights the speed of action and urgency.
This argument is particular relevant if one speaks about the scenes depicting violence or pursuits. So, the music creates a certain mood or a continuing emotional state. In particular, one can speak about the anxiety that is shared by the viewers.
This technique is critical for engaging the audience and increasing the sense of reality. This is one of the ways in which music supports this film. This use of music is typical of action films or thrillers.
Additionally, the soundtracks included in the movie are used to signify very important moments in the plot. For example, one can mention the scene when the main character recognizes the voice of a gangster who could have kidnapped his daughter. At this moment, the audience can hear a very brief musical sample, which suggests that Bryan has discovered an important clue that can help him find his daughter.
Thus, the viewers can expect that the protagonist will do everything to learn where his daughter is. Therefore, music is important for the dynamics of the plot because it can highlight the key turning points. This is why its role should not be overlooked.
Moreover, the music reflects the inner world of the main character. In particular, it emphasizes the desperation that overwhelms Bryan. This protagonist knows clearly that he urgently needs to discover the traces which can lead to the gang; otherwise his daughter may be lost forever. This thought drives each of his actions. In turn, music prompts the audience to feel empathy with this person.
This is one of the effects that that the soundtracks produce. Additionally, one should bear in mind the music is also used to highlight Bryan’s attachment to his daughter and his understanding that he failed to become a good father for Kim.
The melody shows that the main character is overwhelmed by the feeling of loss or even depression. Thus, it is possible to argue that music throws light on the feelings that the protagonist does not want to speak about. So, this element is closely related to one of the main themes, namely the relations between Bryan and Kim.
Therefore, one can say that the music serves three important functions. First, it enhances the atmosphere of suspense and engages the viewers. Secondly, it enables the viewers to understand the emotions or feelings about which the main characters do not speak.
Finally, music facilitates the development of the plot. Thus, it is an important element of this film. It is essential for engaging the viewers and helping them see the world from the perspective of the protagonist. These are the main functions that can be singled out.
Overall, Taken can be distinguished among other action thrillers because it combines fast-paced plot, skillful performance, and music which enable viewers to empathize with the main characters. This film gives insights into the inner world of a person struggling of the life of his daughter.
Moreover, the movie throws light on important moral issues such as the way in which an individual can be dehumanized. In turn, music prompts the viewers to identify themselves with the main character. Finally, it is useful for creating the atmosphere of suspense.