Emerging from the brilliant mind behind blockbusters like Jumanji, Die Hard with a Vengeance, and Armageddon, ‘The Ice Road’ was pegged to be a cinematic triumph in 2021 yet was panned by critics.
With a much-anticipated release, ‘The Ice Road,’ an action-packed thriller starring Liam Neeson as a heroic trucker in frigid North Dakota, set high hopes for viewers but ultimately many were underwhelmed by the outcome.
Now 72, the seasoned Irish actor Neeson, who has given us unforgettable performances from Schindler’s List to Love Actually, steps into the driver’s seat again, but fans seem divided. While his delivery garnered praise, the film itself did not impress.
A cutting critique from Rotten Tomatoes reads: “Borderline embarrassing almost throughout. Predictable and clichéd. Possibly Neeson’s worst film.”
‘The Ice Road’ sees Neeson’s character lead a perilous rescue mission over treacherously icy lakes and snow-lashed roads to save trapped miners in Canada. They grapple with dire obstacles such as weakening ice and brutal storms, battling against nature’s unrelenting threats, reports the Mirror US.
One viewer said: “One ridiculous impossible scene after another as these amateurs try to make a dramatic film. The really baffling thing is, why would an actor of the status of Liam Neeson lend his name and reputation to such horrid dreck?”.
While another reviewer added: “A ‘so bad it’s good’ disaster movie, but only just. The idea of a diverse team of big rig drivers undertaking a heroic mission against the clock and treacherous environments to save those in danger holds some appeal, yet the actual storyline appears foolish and highly improbable.”
The film bypassed cinemas, opting for a Netflix digital release, but still managed to achieve success, ranking as the most streamed film on the platform the weekend it launched.
A sequel, titled The Ice Road 2: Road to the Sky, was announced in April 2023, with Neeson set to reprise his role.
A disgruntled critic said: “Liam is always worth a watch, but unfortunately the plot has many holes and implausible actions leading to a bit of a disappointing viewing. On a cold, rainy day it’s worth a watch, but it’s not popcorn worthy.”
However, not everyone agreed with the criticism, as some film enthusiasts argued it remains “worth a watch”. One fan shared their appreciation: “The film was gritty in places.
“I loved the bond between the brothers; shame one of them had to die. But it was well worth a watch, and I’d like to watch it again, which says a lot from me.”
Another defended the film with: “Why the bad reviews? I am tired of car chases in big cities. This is no more unbelievable, and the setting is much more interesting.”
Fans of Liam Neeson can catch his performance in The Ice Road, now streaming on Netflix.