The Mongoose (2026)

After two decades of doubling for Liam Neeson— from an uncredited turn in 2000’s Gun Shy to the gritty fight scenes of Taken, Ice Road and Cold Pursuit—stunt‑man‑turned‑director Mark Vanselow finally gets his biggest break. Backed by producers Bart Rosenblatt and Al Corley and with Neeson’s full support, Vanselow steps behind the camera for The Mongoose, where the Irish star plays ex‑soldier Ryan “Fang” Flanagan, a veteran who unintentionally steals a cutting‑edge AI‑powered car and sparks a cross‑country chase that even a vengeful Michael Chiklis‑as‑lawman can’t stop. Vanselow’s stunt pedigree shapes the film’s relentless action. He and Neeson lean into close‑combat sequences that let the actor perform as many of his own fights as safety permits, while the high‑tech vehicle itself becomes a character, delivering explosive driving set‑pieces coordinated by stunt chief Chris Weir. The crew worked within tight resources, but the emphasis on practical stunts and the car’s AI personality give the chase a tangible, gritty feel that fans of Neeson’s past blockbusters will recognize. Beyond the adrenaline, The Mongoose weaves a surprisingly thoughtful thread about PTSD and how America treats its veterans. Fang’s trauma fuels his folk‑hero status, rallying other veterans to aid his escape and turning the nationwide manhunt into a commentary on loyalty and redemption. Vanselow hopes the layered storytelling will reward repeat viewings, proving the film is more than just a shiny car tearing down highways. The Mongoose hits theaters on October 30.