Sequels are rarely any good, but it is a well known fact that "threequels" inevitably bring disgrace to the entire franchise. Thus it was with trepidation that I ventured out in the rain last weekend to see Ultimatum. But, lo! I found myself waiting with bated breath for every moment, and not merely to see if Bourne would survive his latest peril. To be sure, the action scenes are impressive: non-stop and extremely well choreographed. Director Paul Greengrass has also managed to hit all the right notes emotionally. For instance, there is a scene with Julia Stiles and a mirror that goes far beyond being a mere homage to the first film.If you will permit me to make a string of controversial comparisons, I must say that I find Jason Bourne to be a much better action hero than James Bond. The former is such a humble, sympathetic character when compared to the crass, arrogant Bond. Consider how much remorse Bourne shows for every "villain" he has killed (he remembers all of their faces); Bond is too busy charming new girls for such introspection. Furthermore, Damon is the superior actor, and the stunts are better in these films. Face it, the very best Bond film (Casino Royale) wouldn't have been made if Bourne hadn't been ... born.
My main quibble with Ultimatum is that Damon's indestructibility distracts from the film's otherwise realistic feel. I also didn't find the ending revelations to live up to my expectations (although they were certainly meaningful).
Overall, this is not only a good action film, it is a great movie and the best of the franchise.
Rating: *** 1/2
4 comments:
Wow! Real post! Awesome. Now I must go see the film to properly critique your critique ;)
Actually I like the first two movies as well, and not just for the car chases. Although asking Marie (Franke Potente) how well maintained was her mini is one of the classic movie scenes. I found the sequel met and exceeded my expectations, so I'm looking forward to seeing this one.
Jon Stewart's interview with Matt Damon was fun, not least of all for the revelation that Greengrass has been discussing the possibility of a fourth movie called The Bourne Redundancy.
I said it with "...Identity"; I said it again with "...Supremecy" and I'm repeating it with "...Ultimatum" -- hell, even Matt Damon commented on it on the Daily Show:
Tripods, people. They're not that expensive and they work!
Not a bad film but take some Gravol before you go.
Ah yes, good point Chris. Although I found I got used to it after a few minutes.
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