TC Candler's Review A

Espionage perfection...

This throwback action film is reminiscent of the genre's best examples from the 60's and 70's. This is a spy thriller that doesn't resort to ludicrous special effects or howlingly bad plot twists... The Bourne Identity is a slick, intelligent, original and terrifically exciting movie that will go down as one of the best pure action films of the past few years!

If you are a fan of the 'one man on the run from tons of bad guys while he tries to discover the truth' genre... then this film is for you!!!

The sequence near the beginning of the film, when Jason Bourne (Damon) is escaping from the US embassy, is as slickly directed an action sequence as I have ever seen. This film takes pleasure in showing us all the intricate details of his escape rather than an explosive screen melee that would confuse us until he is out of danger. Note the lifting of the hand-held radio, the grab of the embassy map, the calmness with which Bourne moves through the building, and the quiet tension of the fire escape. This is a superb sequence by director Doug Liman (Swingers).

Both Matt Damon & Franka Potente are subdued and subtle in their roles... many other actors would have overacted these parts by screaming and panicking throughout the film. They really have good chemistry and they act well enough for us to fall into the plot with supreme ease.

This is a fun and intelligent action film, and you should go see it because there are so few of those around! I recommend this film strongly!

© Written by TC Candler

How We Rated This Film TC Candler - A Richard Propes - C Jacob Hall - C

Richard Propes' Comment

Look above. See TC's review. I disagree. Now, look below. See Jacob's comments. I agree. By the way, am I the only one who thinks the photo above looks like it comes right out of "The Polar Express?" Every time I see it, I keep picturing Santa as a hitman.

Jacob Hall's Comment

This movie really had me bored to death. I had heard such good things about it, and I was hoping for an exciting thriller. This is just a well-cast nap-inducer.

Matt Damon is a man who has amnesia, and is being tracked down by the government (led by Chris Cooper). As he learns more about himself, the plot thickens.

Interesting premise that never pays off. Every actor seems to be asleep, and the action is very small (which would have been a good thing if it was thrilling). Not even a Mini chase through the streets saves this movie ("The Italian Job" has the king of Mini chases).Still, a couple of good moments, but too lethargic for it's own good.