Geek vs Life

Out of all the sequels coming out this summer, The Bourne Ulimatum, was the one I was most excited to see. Everything else in the land of sequels, looked like a slap on the face, followed by an insult. (There was an exception, which was Ocean 13, a guilty pleasure. I also dig heist films, than most people.) Did it live up to my expectations? The short answer is yes. Go see this movie, however you really need to see the first film.

This film takes place six weeks after the second film. It concerns Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) finding a reporter, who may have information about his identity. The plot is there, but are nuggets buried between chases scenes. In fact all of Bourne films are chase films. He is always on the run in his films. Some cool chases in the film: the motorcycle/foot chase in Tunisia, the car chase in Manhattan.

Of course in between exposition/plot and chases, is the fight scene. The fight scenes are realistic, and brutal, and have inspired the reboot of the Bond franchise and the reboot of the Batman franchise. They are in tight spaces. They use everyday common objects. One of the most famous object in a previous film was a magazine.

The actors are wonderful. This is what sets Bourne series apart from it’s relatives in the spy films. It has great supporting actors. This film is no exception. You may not know their names, but you recognize their faces. They ooze character, and in general the better the villain…the better the hero. So thank you: Albert Finney, David Strathairn, Scott Glenn, Joan Allen, and The Midlands Deniro, Paddy Considine.  Now not all of them are villains, kids. The only weak link is Julia Stiles, who has always felt young in the series.

Matt Damon is wonderful. Years ago, no one thought he could be an action hero. Now he is one of my favorites. His minimalistic approach is refreshing. He conveys emotional pain, without the requisite angst. It broadened his range as an actor, and brought baggage to his other roles. I can’t say enough about Mr. Damon.

These books are loosely based on a spy series by Robert Lundlum. They don’t resemble them at all. In fact, there was no finished script in the last two movies. They were constantly being written, and then rewritten. The fact they turned out so well is evidence of movie serendipity.

Paul Greengrass returns to the directing chair. He is give it a documentry feel. So expect lots of hand held cameras, some shakiness, and very little master shots. It isn’t as chaotic as the previous film, but Greengrass is quickly becoming one of the best directors out their. See his “Bloody Sunday” and United 93″ for evidence.

This is most likely the end of the Bourne series. It is a fitting end, and while part of me would love for the Bourne series to continue…I just don’t see how. Everything is answered, and comes full circle at the end of the movie.  Besides, why ruin a perfect hat trick?