In a world where action thrillers often blend into a blur of predictable explosions and recycled plots, one film has quietly detonated on Netflix, leaving audiences stunned and wondering how it slipped under their radar. Honest Thief, the 2020 Liam Neeson-led action flick, has surged into the streaming platform’s global Top 10 just days after its UK debut in July 2025, sparking a frenzy of fan adoration. Viewers are calling it “better than Taken,” with some dubbing it “the most underrated action masterpiece of the decade.” Packed with heart-pounding suspense, brutal twists, and Neeson at his grizzled, vengeful best, this hidden gem is proving that even a familiar formula can feel electrifyingly fresh when done right. Buckle up for a 99-minute ride that’s as explosive as it is unexpectedly heartfelt.
A Bank Robber with a Heart of Gold
Honest Thief centers on Tom Carter (Liam Neeson), a former U.S. Marine demolitions expert turned meticulous bank robber, known to the press as the “In-and-Out Bandit.” Over years of heists across seven states, Tom has amassed $9 million, stashing it away without spending a dime. Why? The film hints at a murky backstory involving his father’s mistreatment, but it’s not the loot that drives Tom—it’s his moral code. He’s a thief with principles, a criminal who avoids violence and never leaves a trace. That is, until love changes everything.
Enter Annie Wilkins (Kate Walsh), a spirited psychology grad student working at a storage facility where Tom hides his cash. Their meet-cute over storage unit paperwork sparks an instant connection, and within a year, they’re living together in Boston, blissfully unaware of Tom’s double life. But when Tom decides he wants a future with Annie, he makes a bold move: he calls the FBI, offering to surrender his $9 million in exchange for a lighter sentence. It’s a chance to go straight, to build an honest life with the woman who’s stolen his heart. What could go wrong? In true Neeson fashion, everything.
A Betrayal That Ignites Chaos
Tom’s plan to turn himself in goes spectacularly awry when two corrupt FBI agents, John Nivens (Jai Courtney) and Ramon Hall (Anthony Ramos), see his millions as their ticket to a windfall. Instead of processing his surrender, they double-cross him, framing Tom for the murder of their superior, Agent Baker (Robert Patrick). Suddenly, the “In-and-Out Bandit” is on the run, with Annie caught in the crossfire. As a former Marine with bomb-making expertise, Tom isn’t just a thief—he’s a one-man wrecking crew, and he’s not about to let crooked cops destroy his shot at redemption.
What follows is a lean, mean thrill ride packed with car chases, explosions, and Neeson’s signature brand of controlled fury. From blowing up a suburban house to outsmarting his pursuers with tactical precision, Tom proves why he’s earned his nickname. Yet, the film’s heart lies in its quieter moments—Tom’s desperate attempts to protect Annie, his earnest confessions of love, and his determination to clear his name. It’s a classic Neeson setup: a wronged man with a particular set of skills, fighting for justice against impossible odds. But Honest Thief elevates the formula with a surprising dose of emotional depth and a cast that brings every scene to life.
Neeson at His Absolute Best
At 73, Liam Neeson remains a force of nature. His towering presence, gravelly voice, and knack for delivering threats like Shakespearean soliloquies make Tom Carter a compelling antihero. Neeson leans into the role with a mix of menace and vulnerability, snarling lines like “I’m gonna make things right, my way” while showing subtle tenderness in scenes with Annie. He’s not just phoning in another action flick—he’s fully invested, making Tom’s quest for redemption feel urgent and authentic. Fans on social media are raving, with one calling him “the king of action,” while another gushed, “Liam Neeson does what he does best, and it’s better than ever.”
Kate Walsh shines as Annie, bringing warmth and grit to a role that could’ve been a generic love interest. Known for Grey’s Anatomy, Walsh imbues Annie with a plucky resilience, standing by Tom even as their world explodes—sometimes literally. Her chemistry with Neeson grounds the film, turning their romance into a believable anchor amidst the chaos. Jai Courtney, as the slimy Agent Nivens, plays the villain with brutish glee, though his one-dimensional bad-guy shtick occasionally feels flat. Anthony Ramos, as the conflicted Agent Hall, adds nuance, his conscience wrestling with greed in a performance that keeps you guessing. Jeffrey Donovan, as the wry FBI Agent Meyers, steals scenes with his deadpan humor and an adorable dog inherited from his divorce, adding a quirky touch to the tension.
Why It’s Going Viral
So, why has Honest Thief struck such a chord with Netflix viewers? For starters, it’s the perfect escapist watch—99 minutes of pure, unpretentious adrenaline. The film doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it to a shine, delivering exactly what Neeson fans crave: high-stakes action, a wronged hero, and just enough heart to keep you invested. Its recent climb to Netflix’s Top 10 in the UK and Ireland, and its growing buzz worldwide, speak to its universal appeal. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an 87% audience score on the Popcornmeter, with fans praising its “above-average script” and “satisfying” twists. One viewer called it “a brilliant, underrated gem,” while another said, “It’s Taken but with more heart and better pacing.”
The film’s setting in Boston, with scenes shot in Worcester, Massachusetts, adds a gritty, lived-in feel to the action. Director Mark Williams, co-creator of Ozark, keeps things tight and efficient, weaving in sly humor—like Tom’s irritation at being called the “In-and-Out Bandit”—to balance the intensity. The action sequences, from car chases to bomb-fueled showdowns, are staged with clarity and punch, never overstaying their welcome. It’s a “Dad Movie” in the best sense: straightforward, thrilling, and perfect for a night when you just want to switch off and enjoy the ride.
A Mixed Critical Reception, But Fans Don’t Care
Critics haven’t been as kind as audiences, with Honest Thief holding a 41% rating on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer. Some, like Variety’s Owen Gleiberman, called it “a textbook case of an action movie that goes through the motions,” citing its familiar tropes and lack of surprises. Others, like The New York Times, dismissed it as “utterly forgettable,” arguing that its predictable plot doesn’t match Neeson’s charisma. Yet, even the naysayers acknowledge Neeson’s commitment, with The Hollywood Reporter noting that he “fully invests himself in the material,” delivering a performance that elevates the film beyond its B-movie roots.
Fans, however, are eating it up. Social media is ablaze with posts calling it “better than Taken” and “a hidden masterpiece.” One viewer wrote, “I can’t believe I slept on this for five years—it’s non-stop action with a love story that actually works.” Another said, “Neeson’s still got it. This is the kind of movie you watch over and over.” The disconnect between critics and audiences highlights Honest Thief’s strength: it knows its lane and owns it, delivering unapologetic entertainment for anyone who loves Neeson’s brand of justice.
A Testament to Neeson’s Enduring Appeal
Honest Thief arrives at a poignant moment in Liam Neeson’s career. The Irish actor, who reinvented himself as an action star with Taken at age 56, has hinted that his days of wielding guns and blowing things up may be winding down. At 73, he’s still a commanding presence, moving with the agility of a man half his age and delivering every line with gravitas. Whether he’s defusing bombs or professing his love for Annie, Neeson makes you believe in Tom Carter’s mission. As he told interviewers, he’s drawn to roles that blend action with humanity, and Honest Thief strikes that balance perfectly.
The film also showcases Neeson’s ability to carry a movie on his broad shoulders, supported by a solid ensemble. Kate Walsh’s Annie isn’t just a damsel—she’s a partner who fights back, adding depth to the romance. Jeffrey Donovan’s Agent Meyers, with his dry wit and loyal dog, provides a welcome dose of levity, while Anthony Ramos’ conflicted agent keeps the moral stakes murky. Even Jai Courtney’s cartoonish villain serves a purpose, giving Neeson someone to outwit and outmuscle.
Why You Can’t Miss It
Honest Thief is the kind of movie that sneaks up on you. It’s not trying to win Oscars or redefine the genre—it’s here to entertain, and it does so with relentless efficiency. Fans are right to call it a masterpiece of its kind: a lean, mean thriller that delivers white-knuckle suspense, heartfelt romance, and Neeson doing what he does best. Whether you’re a longtime fan of his Taken-style heroics or a newcomer looking for a Friday-night thrill, this film hits all the right notes. Its viral surge on Netflix proves that sometimes, all you need is a good guy, a bad situation, and a few well-placed explosions to make movie magic.
Available now on Netflix, Honest Thief is the action-packed gem you didn’t know you needed. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be blown away by Liam Neeson’s most explosive performance in years. You’ll wonder how you ever missed it—and you’ll probably hit “replay” as soon as the credits roll.
