Neeson’s scenes with Shaw, who created and starred in the scrappy Showtime series “SMILF”, have a touching authenticity, and Ross’s character is so spiky and warm she offers relief from Punchy’s soggy self-centeredness.

The movie tries to make up for its lack of propulsion through various means, with mixed results.

Just about everybody in “Absolution” gets what they deserve, for better or worse or death.

In Absolution, Neeson finally has the chance to remind us why he’s such a great actor.