Liam Neeson, known for his action-packed roles, stars in the 2020 heist thriller “Honest Thief,” which has recently gained popularity on streaming platforms. Despite a mixed reception upon its release, grossing $32.6 million against a $30 million production budget, the film has found a new audience. It currently ranks number 10 on Netflix in the United States, as reported on December 10, and has the potential to climb even higher in the streaming charts.
The film received a lukewarm response from critics, earning a mere 41% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, the audience’s perception presents a stark contrast, with an impressive user rating of 87% on the same site. This discrepancy highlights a divide between professional reviews and viewer enjoyment, suggesting that many movie enthusiasts find value in Neeson’s performances and the film’s thrills.
Audience reviews reflect a positive sentiment towards the movie, with comments such as “Anything Liam is in rocks,” and descriptions of it as “very suspenseful” and “riveting.” With a 6 out of 10 rating on IMDb, “Honest Thief” is seen as an average offering that manages to capture the viewers’ attention, despite its flaws.
The storyline revolves around a notorious bank robber who wishes to turn himself in to redeem his life, only to face betrayal from corrupt FBI agents. Alongside Neeson, the film features a strong supporting cast including Robert Patrick, Anthony Ramos, Jeffrey Donovan, Kate Walsh, and Jai Courtney.
This resurgence of interest in “Honest Thief” highlights the evolving nature of how films can find success beyond their initial box office performance, often resonating more with general audiences than critics. As it climbs the streaming ranks, it serves as a reminder that entertainment can come from unexpected places and how audience reception can differ greatly from critical analysis.