“The Grey” follows the story of John Ottway (Liam Neeson), a chronicly depressed hunter-guard at an isolated oil refinery in Alaska. Ottway is a socially challenged type who spends his days and nights casing the perimeter of the refinery killing wild animals that, if unchecked, could threaten the plant’s various workers. That is, until Ottway and a plane full of refinery employees crashes in the middle of the Alaskan wild.
While most of the passengers die instantly in the crash, a few survivors escape from the wreckage – only to discover that not only are they going to have to battle the climatic elements to reach safety alive, they’re also being hunted by a pack of vicious and hungry wolves. While a few of the men are initially doubtful of Ottway, the group reluctantly agrees to follow him away from the plane wreckage and into the elements in the hopes of finding safety.
Moviegoers will likely find that certain characters and their rich interactions are ultimately enough to drive the film, at least from one action scene to another. Neeson offers his familiar subtle but likable intensity – whether attempting to encourage his fellow survivors into fighting the elements or eliminating insurrections. Ottway is still a pretty straightforward character. Neeson’s portrayal coupled with some compelling flashback material, makes him a worthwhile focal point for the unfolding events.
However, it’s those unfolding events that actually make “The Grey” a teeth grinding moviegoing experience. While survival experts and especially outdoorsy types will likely have issues with a number of “The Grey’s” nature scenarios, none of those inaccuracies with be a deal breaker to normal moviegoers.
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