Packaged as an action film, the grossly inaccurate marketing campaign of “The Grey” actually works in its favor, masking its thematically deep content and more crafted thrills. The result is a film that doesn’t simply go for the jugular, but sneaks up behind you and tears you to pieces instead.

Liam Neeson stars as Ottway, a sniper who’s tasked with protecting an oil drilling team in the outer reaches of Alaska from wolves. When their transport plane goes down in the middle of the rugged wilderness, Ottway and the few other survivors are left to their own devices with a slim chance of rescue. As they head out in search of civilization, they must outlast not only the elements, but a pack of wolves whose turf they’ve inadvertently invaded.

Director Joe Carnahan shows off all of the skill he used in 2002’s “Narc,” and easily transfers its energy and grit to the unforgiving Alaskan wilderness. He keeps the tension level high, with the small crew pursued at every turn by merciless snow, the eerie glow of lupine eyes and accompanying howls.

Neeson is the driving force behind the movie, playing the depressed loner Ottway with surprising depth and passion. Though once determined to kill himself, he’s now fighting to save his own life and the crew’s. He’s not the one man army of “Taken” either, knowing he can do relatively little against one of nature’s most refined predators.

“The Grey” is an inappropriately bland title for such an electrifying film. Featuring a talented cast, constant thrills and even occasional philosophical content, it entertains with a raw and primal ferocity.