Action star Liam Neeson takes a grittier turn in ABSOLUTION diverging from his recent string of thrillers to play a weathered Boston mob enforcer grappling with a degenerative brain condition.

At 72, Neeson continues to command the screen, though this role marks a departure from his usual righteous heroes in films like TAKEN and THE ICE ROAD. Here, he portrays an ex-boxer turned criminal whose violent past catches up with him through CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy).

“The role resonated deeply with me,” Neeson shared via Zoom, drawing parallels to his own boxing background in Northern Ireland from ages 9 to 17. “I’ve seen firsthand how this condition affects athletes, from ice hockey players to boxers I knew back home.”

The film, originally titled THUG, follows Neeson’s character as his mental deterioration forces him to confront his criminal legacy, including his role in sex trafficking and his estrangement from his daughter and grandson. “I wanted a stripped-down approach,” Neeson explained of his portrayal, describing his character’s ’70s-style leather jacket and distinctive mustache and sideburns.

While many of Neeson’s recent action roles, from MEMORY to BLACKLIGHT, have showcased his particular set of skills as a heroic figure, ABSOLUTION allows him to explore darker territory. The film places him firmly on the other side of the law, though his character ultimately seeks redemption.

Interestingly, Neeson expresses disappointment with the final title ABSOLUTION, feeling it tips the film’s hand regarding its Catholic themes of confession and forgiveness. “I much prefer THUG” he admitted, suggesting the simpler title better captured his character’s essence.

ABSOLUTION opens in theaters Friday, Nov 1.