The thriller, starring Liam Neeson, was a huge success when it hit cinemas for the first time in 2008, launching an entire franchise that film fans still love to watch

Nearly two decades after hitting screens, this action thriller remains a firm favourite with cinema-goers, and it’s returning to TV screens this evening.

The 2008 blockbuster was a box office sensation, spawning two follow-up films and spin-off TV series, with audiences suggesting it has lost none of its appeal. Taken, featuring Liam Neeson, produced memorable dialogue, sparked controversy and introduced Hollywood to a fresh action star.

Neeson’s portrayal of Bryan Mills, a former special forces operative and ex-CIA agent, has become legendary. His depiction of a father who stops at nothing to rescue his kidnapped daughter, utilising his exceptional intelligence expertise, marked a turning point in Neeson’s acting journey.

One Rotten Tomatoes review says: “The film that propelled Liam Neeson into action stardom. Taken benefits from a brisk, effortless pace and a ticking clock that add a strong sense of urgency. Liam Neeson absolutely shines in the lead, and the film has some solid action.”

Another viewer added: “One of the most influential movies of the 21st century, and why not? It is not a coincidence that it is also one of the most enjoyable movies ever made; no matter how many problems you can detect within it, the “Parkinson-y” direction is the most notable, probably.”

Helmed by Pierre Morel, the plot centres on a retired CIA operative attempting to rebuild his fractured relationship with his teenage daughter. During a visit to Paris, she’s kidnapped by human traffickers, prompting Neeson’s character to travel to the French capital to retrace her movements and locate her.

Deploying his specialist skillset, Mills pursues the criminals across France and devises a high-stakes rescue operation. His daughter faces being sold at an illegal auction for sexual exploitation alongside her friend, making it a desperate race to reach her in time.

One viewer said: “This is a modern-day classic. None of the sequels or many other Liam Neeson action films after this were ever able to recreate the magic of this movie.” Others praised Neeson’s turn as an action star, with the Irish actor reinventing himself in the role.

They wrote: “This film kicked off the Liam Neeson action movie genre, and it’s for a good reason. He brings an intense and focused performance, even through some of the few cheesy moments. Most of the cast do well enough to pass also. The action in the film may not be groundbreaking, but it’s more than enough to entertain, especially with Neeson in the lead.”

After the success of the 2008 blockbuster, Taken spawned two more films, with Taken 3 wrapping up the series in 2014. The Irish star has since taken on a slew of action-packed roles in films such as The Ice Road, The Naked Gun and Non-Stop.

To see Neeson in this unforgettable role, tune into ITV4 tonight at 10:05pm. Alternatively, you can stream the thriller on Disney+ anytime throughout the year.