‘The Taking of Pelham 123’

The time was when a crisp, effective New York subway hostage drama starring Denzel Washington and John Travolta wouldn’t have needed the extra boost a positive review can potentially give a film. “Pelham” might not dominate at the Oscars, but as directed by Tony Scott it’s so professionally done you don’t have the luxury of taking your eyes off the screen. But times have changed and the potential audience for a solid action picture intended for adults has gotten so beaten down it often refuses to leave the house. This one is worth it, folks, really it is.

-- Kenneth Turan