So we have Jack Reacher, "A homicide investigator digs deeper into a case involving a trained military sniper who shot five random victims." Now that's a whole lot in one statement...
This action thriller is nothing that we have not seen from any other films, it is just that "it brings that ol' thing back'. Nothing like seeing something familiar, but just amped up to the next level. Now let me say this is not "Mission Impossible", nor James Bond but it will keep you entertained and glued to the screen. However, it is an excellent mix between an ideal action and thriller film in its own unique way.
So let's get to the thick of it, Tom Cruise who plays main character Jack Reacher is based on a series of novels from author Lee Child. Reacher is an ex-Military Police detective who pretty much lives as a gypsy and or vagabond and has been summoned to come into town to help investigate five sniper shootings.
Living as a drifter, and after spending a lifetime on military bases all over the world he now lives a life with no responsibilities, no job, no house, no family, no possessions. Now the only problem here is that the character that Tom Cruise is portraying (Jack Reacher) is actually 6'5'' and 250 lbs...hmmm well you can do the math. Despite that slight flaw he did do the character justice.
Then we have supporting actors Rosamund Pike (Helen) who plays the female lead and attorney in charge of the investigation. I will say this if you are expecting some type of fling think again, let's just say the romance is kept to an all-time low. To be honest her presence in the film is nothing more than to fill the role of 'bait' and to some 'eye candy'. Her character allows Reacher (Cruise) to bounce off ideas and provide the missing links to the puzzle. And with features from rising actor David Oyelowo and veterans Robert Duvall, Robert Jenkins, and known director Werner Herzog (who makes an appearance) there is a lot of flavor added to the stew. As you watch this film, you will be mesmerized with each scene wondering who is talking to who, or who is coming around the corner. Nothing is expected at all. There is just so much to say about this film, but NO SPOILERS!!
Now as far as the plot goes, the story grabs you from the beginning...trust me!! I will say though, there were moments when it seemed a bit slow and dragged along, but in the end it did seem to come together. At times a a bit cheesy, but overall a decent plot, and believable acting. Each action scene whether a car chase, a fight scene, or a shoot out is vivid enough to not hit the border of being to cliche'. With a cohesive plot and a good mix of characters this could lead to a promising franchise.
What I really liked about this film was that you were always guessing about what would be the next move. Just when you think you knew who the bad guy was, you quickly changed your mind. Even with the CGI the film does not rely on the special effects, in a way it kind of has an old school feel to it. And let me just say Tom Cruise seems to never age, but I guess that's a good thing. (Let the money roll in for ya.) I just may have to read the books....hmmm if time allows lol.
Jack Reacher is the type of solid movie that will make you laugh, keep you on your toes, and make you think twice about the characters next move. Cruise definitely does not disappoint with this one. So go ahead and check it out!
Happy Holidays!!
Rating: 8.5 out of 10 stars
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