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Ransom (1996)

Rate: 5
Viewed: 7/21

Ransom
7/21: Wait a minute...why am I rooting for the CEO who refuses to pay the ransom to get his son back but is perfectly okay with bribery to save his own airline?

There's something seriously fucked up with the narrative, but Ron Howard wants to force me to swallow it for Ransom. Well, I'm not going to be fooled. Even the guy who took the bribe went to prison while the CEO got away with it. In reality, the movie is about Mel Gibson not caring a farthing about what happens to Nick Nolte's son because of his "principles." Of course, nothing bad will happen. Therefore, where's the suspense?

Frankly long, Ransom is as Hollywood as it gets with some substandard acting and many implausible moments. The story should've been presented through the family's perspective the whole time. That way, tension can be held at high level. But knowing the activities of the criminals every step of the way, what happens next becomes fairly predictable.

Rene Russo pairs up with Mel Gibson after their terrific chemistry in Lethal Weapon 3. Unfortunately, whatever she has in mind holds zero sway over her husband's decisions. Delroy Lindo seems to make out slightly better only because he's a man. Gary Sinise tries hard, too, but his character is ultimately the biggest loser.

All in all, Ransom has a good premise but would've done a lot better if it was an independent, not big-budget Hollywood, picture.