The cult sixties Spy TV series get another big, expensive, glossy make-over in this energetic fourth instalment of the classy spy franchise that superstar Tom Cruise (still extremely youthful and performing his own stunts) and director Brian De Palma (CARRIE, BODY DOUBLE, DRESSED TO KILL) started way back in 1996 and the result is nothing short of spectacular. Ethan Hunt (savvy Cruise) and his team, including Benji (Brit Simon Pegg, in terrific Comedy mode), Jane (Paula Patton, DEJA VU), and new addition Brandt (Jeremy Renner, THE HURT LOCKER, THE TOWN, the upcoming THE AVENGERS), are racing against the clock to track down a highly dangerous terrorist named Hendricks (Michael Nygvist), who has somehow gained world access to Russian nuclear Launch Codes and is planning to strike on the United States. That all I’m gonna say about the story, as it clearly isn’t that important. As gripping, exciting and outrageous as can be, this highly charged and adrenalin pumping thrill-ride is the ultimate Action film, as it goes way beyond the norm in terms of traditional Action flicks and the non-stop adrenalin pumping thrills are just as spectacular and awe-inspiring as usual. PIXAR’S Animation director Brad Bird (THE INCREDIBLES/RATATOUILLE), does a superlative job as his first-ever Live Action film is equally as dazzling, fast-paced, inventive and breathtaking. The gadgets galore are absolutely fantastic and would put JAMES BOND out of business and to shame, especially the retina-based video screen which is just awesome; And in many ways the MISSION IMPOSSIBLE franchise was always been about rivaling BOND in every area and in many ways Tom Cruise is changeling JAMES BOND in all his trademark, charismatic glory and Jeremy Renner shows us why he’d been cast for THE BOURNE LEGACY, as his unique Action skills are used to dynamically clever effect and on his way to potential greatness. The explosive Action set pieces are never less than exhilarating and the sights are truly breathtaking; But the best of all are the absolutely amazing stunts. The best being the vertigo-inducing wall climb with the ultra fit Tom Cruise dangling off the Burj Khalifa tower in Dubai, is just an astounding sight for sour eyes, as the whole scene is just absolutely phenomenal and beyond words. In short, GHOST PROTOCOL might not be the best MISSION IMPOSSIBLE film ever, MISSION IMPOSSIBLE III is, but it’s definitely a vast improvement over the Spy/Action genre in general and proves there’s plenty of style and stream. I would most definitely be up for a fifth MISSION IMPOSSIBLE film indeed. Terrific entertainment all round. See it. Highly recommended.
RICK
