4/5
So I have just got back from watching Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol , and already my normal life seems dull and insignificant compared to that of those who work at the fictional IMF (Impossible missions force). Packed full of high octane action sequences involving cars, explosives and ludicrous gadgetry that would make James Bond feel inadequate, the latest installment in the Mission Impossible franchise lives up to its predecessors. When the IMF team lead by Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) is held responsible for an explosion at the Kremlin, the entire organisation is disavowed, enabling them to work off the grid as fugitives from the government, whilst being hunted by their Russian equivalents who want vengeance. Their mission is to prevent a nuclear war between Russia and the West due to the Russian suspicions concerning the Kremlin attack, which was in fact carried out by Russian nuclear organiser Kurt Hendricks (Michael Nyqvist).Although this is the fourth Mission Impossible installment, the film delivered on every level, proving that the franchise still has life in it. I think J. J. Abrams is a great director for the franchise, and has really made them become bolder and more energetic. The best thing about these films is the fact that they can afford to be ridiculous and over the top, with gratuitous explosions, action and chases that would not feel right if they were in a Bond or a Bourne film. If you take them with a pinch of salt, then they are a joy to view, the sandstorm chase is a prime example. There are so many scenes that wowed me that I will not go into them, but the film was a collection of nail biting and jaw dropping set pieces that would satisfy any action film junkie. In particular the wirework around the Berge in Dubai is breathtaking and is truly edge of the seat stuff, in fact all the audience gasped so much that somebody in the middle row fainted. I am kidding of course. I though visually the films action sequences were stunning, I though the cast was strong, and of course there is the Music. The amazing theme tune gets everybody singing along to (well humming or da da, da da da’ing to) never fails to bring a huge smile to my face. The beats are like sex in your ears, I love them (Sorry I got a little carried away).
The only criticism that I would have with the film was the villain. Whereas in the previous instalments we have had long discussions with the primary antagonist, for example Owen Davian (Phillip Seymour Hoffman), enabling the audience to understand what they are after and how much they despise Hunt. However, Hendricks was simply labelled as a nuclear nutter whose agenda was to simply cause chaos. That worked on some levels, but I was expecting a villain who had more of a personality that the audience could love, hate or be afraid of. However it did not spoil my enjoyment of the film, and I do think that the franchise is moving on in a bolder and more exciting way. If, or when, they announce a fifth instalment, I will not be rolling my eyes in boredom but I will be eagerly anticipating where they can take these films.
Entertainment Magazine
