The Taking of Pelham One Two Three

The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) is a thrilling American action drama that has since set a precedent for suspenseful cinematic storytelling with its astute narrative woven around a subway hijacking. Starring notable actors Walter Matthau, Robert Shaw, and Martin Balsam, under the expert direction of Joseph Sargent, this movie is an exercise in tension, chaos, and unexpected humor that unstintingly captivates the viewer's attention from the opening act till the very end.

Following a dynamic screenplay by Peter Stone based on the book by John Godey, the plot of The Taking of Pelham One Two Three unfolds in the grim, gritty reality of New York City subway system. Four armed men, quirkingly codenamed Blue, Grey, Green, and Brown, hijack a subway train, Pelham 123, unseeing of the pandemonium that's about to unravel in the heart of the metropolis. The hijackers, led by the cold and ruthless mercenary Mr. Blue, played by the formidable Robert Shaw, make a significant ransom demand - a million dollars within one hour, threatening to kill a hostage for every minute the deadline is breached.

On the other side of this treacherous act is Lieutenant Zachary Garber of the New York City Transit Police, portrayed in the unique style of Walter Matthau. Garber, an individual more accustomed to the daily banalities of subway maintenance and public relations, finds himself inadvertently thrust into the role of negotiator, facing off against this hostile force threatening to wreak havoc underneath the city.

As the movie rushes forward on the tracks of suspense, the stakes escalate, and the tension tightens, taking the viewers along on a ride of nail-biting anticipation. The frantic scramble by city authorities to arrange the monumental ransom against the ticking clock forms a significant part of the engrossing narrative.

There's an expert play of character as the calm, sardonic demeanor of Garber contrasts starkly against the cold, professional, and ruthless Mr. Blue. Their exchanges inject the narrative with a nerve-wracking suspense that keeps the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats.

Martin Balsam delivers a standout performance as Mr. Green, the sneezing ex-train driver turned subway hijacker. His calm, composed personality is equally deceptive and adds a new layer of depth to the motley crew of criminals. What drives these individuals? How far will they go to get what they want? These questions form the crux of the narrative and add to the overall ambiance of suspense and intrigue crafted so appealingly in the movie.

Moreover, one of the uniquely enjoyable aspects of the movie is its occasional, unanticipated humor. Just as the tension hits a high note, a subtle comedic touch creates a moment of relief, only to throw the viewer back into the action – a fascinating balance between terror and comic relief that gives the movie a unique flavor.

The direction of Joseph Sargent deserves particular praise, as he flawlessly translates the raw energy and pulse of New York City in the 1970s onto the silver screen. The fast-moving, traffic congested, and people-packed city becomes a character in itself, with its nuances adding to the edgy atmosphere.

The cinematography by Owen Roizman crafts a raw, realistic portrait of the city, its subway system, and the inhabitants, visually enhancing the tension-laced narrative while David Shire's mesmerizing score further amplifies the unease, dread, and excitement.

Achieving high acclaim from both critics and audiences upon its release, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three not only offers a high-stakes narrative filled with suspense but also showcases the skills of some of the most talented actors in the industry. Packed with flawless performances, gripping storytelling, and expert direction - it is an unforgettable cinematic experience.

In essence, The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974) is more than just a hijacking movie; it's a socio-political commentary encapsulated in a roller coaster ride of thrilling drama. This relentless suspenseful saga remains one of the most iconic subway dramas ever - a tense and riveting movie that stands firmly decades after its release, proving its timeless appeal.