Neil Jordan’s reboot of the classic detective franchise, Marlowe, stands as a disappointingly dull misfire. Ok, ok - it’s not all bad. For one, there truly are some well-crafted set designs and costume work on display. The filmmakers really did capture the retro-noir vibes of 1940s LA with beautiful golden lighting and detailed period set dressings. Add in all the shadowy rooms you can handle, and you’ve got the perfect look for a hardboiled mystery tale. However, nailing the look and feel of a story is one thing, making it interesting is another. And that is where Marlowe falters – big time. It’s just so darn bland. Sure, the actors deliver their old-timey dialogue with ease (and there is fun in that), but it never feels anything more than a “copy.” It’s almost like a cover of a classic hit song - it might hit all the right notes, but it doesn’t measure up to the magic of the original. There are dutiful details paid for sure, but there’s nothing more to it. But while the sleepy little mystery doesn’t work, our leading man in the fedora - Liam Neeson, sure does. Marlowe is a great role for Neeson. He’s gruff, he’s tough, and he’s believable in his convictions. I for one was really happy to see the veteran actor use his talents for something other than another brain-dead actioner. If only he (and everyone else for that matter) were given a more gripping film to play in. Alas, the only mystery here is how often you’ll be checking your watch throughout its runtime…