Why Liam Neeson’s Character in Taken Didn’t Share His Secret: Plot Holes and Setting Suspense

If the Taken franchise is one filled with thrilling action and intense missions, it’s also a place where plot holes are easily overlooked. When the first movie graced our screens, fans were introduced to the incredible world of Bryan Mills, played by Liam Neeson. However, there’s a question many have pondered: why didn’t his CIA operational status ever come up in casual conversation with his loved ones?

Why Suspicion of Disbelief is Crucial

Firstly, let’s explore why such an oversight might not qualify as a significant plot hole. Movies and series are crafted for entertainment, and part of that craft involves suspending our disbelief. Suspension of disbelief, also known as willing suspension of disbelief, refers to a reader’s or viewer’s temporary willingness to accept premises that would normally seem impossible or implausible. This is a common practice in storytelling, especially in genres like action, where realistic details might hinder the flow of drama.

In the Taken franchise, the primary goal is to deliver a thrilling narrative that keeps audiences engaged. This means certain details are either glossed over or strategically ignored to maintain the flow and intensity of the plot. Plot holes that don’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the film are often seen as minor incongruities. In this case, not mentioning Bryan Mills’ CIA background is more of a stylistic choice than a major flaw in the narrative.

Knowing is Half the Battle: CIA Operatives and Privacy

Underneath the surface, there are strong reasons for Bryan Mills not sharing his CIA involvement with his significant other and daughter. CIA operatives, especially those in special ops, are trained to maintain security and secrecy. Personnel are often required to follow strict protocols and may be restricted from discussing their work due to national security concerns. Sharing this information with family could pose significant risks if someone were to use such information inappropriately or for malicious intent.

Moreover, the characters in the Taken franchise face dangerous and unpredictable situations. While sharing his knowledge with his family could be seen as a protective measure, it could also compromise their safety. In the first film, when Bryan Mills enters his daughter’s vacation plans, it’s only because his usual protective mechanisms aren’t working. Had he previously revealed his role, different outcomes might have played out, potentially putting his family in more immediate danger.

A Divorced Life with Unfathomable Demands

Another significant factor is the personal circumstance of Liam Neeson’s character. When we first meet Bryan Mills, it's established that he is divorced from his family. His ex-wife and daughter are living with another man, creating a challenging dynamic for Mills in maintaining his parental relationship. The question of how much time he can spend with his daughter becomes a central conflict in the plot.

Given this situation, the added pressure of keeping his CIA identity secret makes logical sense. Time spent with his daughter is already limited, and chances are, these moments are precious and guarded. The narrative benefits from this limited interaction, as it emphasizes the depth of Mills' struggle in balancing his role as a concerned and protective father with the demands of his covert operations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to keep Liam Neeson’s CIA identity secret in the Taken franchise serves both narrative and practical purposes. The suspension of disbelief allows for a more immersive and thrilling experience. The containment of classified information by a top-tier operative is a nod to the very real security practices these characters must follow. And the personal circumstances of a divorced, protective father make the reason for this secrecy even more compelling within the context of the story.

So, while a question like ‘why didn’t Bryan Mills tell his family about his CIA background?' may seem like a major plot hole, it’s actually a well-integrated part of the storytelling. It’s a reminder to audiences to embrace the suspension of disbelief and enjoy the ride of a movie designed for action and suspense, rather than strict realism.