Writer: Adam Cozad, David Koepp (Screenplay) Tom Clancy (Characters)
Starring: Chris Pine, Keira Knightly, Kevin Costner, Kenneth Branagh, Lenn Kudrjawizki, Alec Ulgoff, Peter Andersson, Elena Velikanova
Plot: A new version of the saga of CIA analyst Jack Ryan (Pine). It begins when Ryan was attending the London School of Economics; and 9/11 happened. He would then enlist in the Marines and would go to Afghanistan. The chopper he was on would get shot down and he would suffer severe injuries that would require intense rehab. While there, he grabs the attention of a man named Harper (Costner), who works for the CIA and would like him to finish his studies and get a job on Wall Street so he can find out of any terrorist plot through their finances. A few years later, Ryan finds anomalies in the accounts of a Russian named Cherevin (Branagh). Jack thinks he should go to Russia to find out what’s going on. Jack was told not to tell anyone who he is and that includes his girlfriend Cathy (Knightly). But she catches Jack in some lies which make her doubt him. When they’re alone the man tries to kill Jack. So Jack films him. Obvious Cherevin is hiding something so Jack does to meet him, and he says he will bring his fiancé along. But Cathy shows up and Jack has to tell her the truth. Harper says Cathy has to go with Jack when she meets Cherevin. Jack doesn’t want her to but Cathy says she’s going. So the action begins that leads to the climax.
Verdict: Straight Forward Thriller
Story: When it comes to the adventures of Jack Ryan we are used to seeing twists and turns a plenty before the truth finally comes out. This fails to offer us any twists and turns, it ends up turning into his origin story because that is what everyone wants to see now. The job is routine for a seasoned pro but as the rookie Jack struggles with the stealth part of the mission. We have some good foot chases but just don’t watch the trailer as it pretty much shows you the whole film. (7/10)
Actor Reviews
Chris Pine: Jack Ryan the fresh agent assigned to a desk job before being thrown into the field in Russia, he is nerves and after his first kill he is visibly shaken. Good performance showing the Mr Pine has a knack for bring classic heroes back to life on the big screen. (8/10)
Keira Knightly: Cathy Jack’s girlfriend and nurse who helped him recover from his injuries. She travels to Russia to be with him after she starts getting suspicious of his action. Good supporting role but nothing stood out. (6/10)
Kevin Costner: Harper Jack’s recruiter he sees Jack is skilled and talks him into working for the CIA first at the desk then pushing into the field, provides good support on missions. Good supporting performance as the wise man hiring. (7/10)
Kenneth Branagh: Cherevin the Russian banker who is set to make millions but he also has an alternative motive which could change the world. Good educated villain who always stays calm even when he is in angry mood. (8/10)
Director Review: Kenneth Branagh – Slow moving thriller that struggles to keep up with the other films in the franchise. (6/10)
Action: When the action happens it is solid good paced, but there are a lot of breaks beaten the action. (8/10)
Thriller: Slow moving thriller that offers plenty of potential twists and turns. (7/10)
Settings: Each setting is used well to add small amounts the story. (7/10)
Suggestion: This is one to just be trying it could be better paced and I feel even the die-hard Jack Ryan fans will consider this slow. (Try It)
Best Part: Final Chase.
Worst Part: Slow Moving
Action Scene Of The Film: Final Chase
Believability: It could be happening depending on how much want to believe. (5/10)
Chances of Tears: No (0/10)
Chances of Sequel: I am sure they will do another sequel.
Post Credits Scene: No
Oscar Chances: No
Box Office: $135,503,748
Budget: $60 Million
Runtime:1 Hour 40 Minutes
Tagline: Trust No One
Overall: Jack Ryan Begins
Rating