SYNOPSIS: The narrative architect behind the Bourne film series, Tony Gilroy, takes the helm in the next chapter of the hugely popular espionage franchise that has earned almost $1 billion at the global box office: The Bourne Legacy. The writer/director expands the Bourne universe created by Robert Ludlum with an original story that introduces us to a new hero (Jeremy Renner) whose life-or-death stakes have been triggered by the events of the first three films. 

REVIEW:

Byer: Jason Bourne was just the tip of the iceberg.

The chase continues! Didn’t get enough of Bourne? Here we go with another round and it’s off to a good start. I know Bourne without Damon is almost blasphemous but it is an expansion on the story not a remake. We’re not exactly dealing with Jason Bourne but Aaron Cross, played masterfully by Jeremy Renner. Same under the table program but the tale of a different agent. The ties between this new take and the rest of the series are strong thus making the transition to this new vision more smooth. It does the original series justice for sure. Even Damon would be proud I think. It is also fitting that it is directed by Tony Gilroy who wrote the first three Bourne films. Tony has also directed Duplicity, which we shall overlook at this juncture, and Michael Clayton which earned him two Oscar nominations, so we know he can do good work. Like the other Bournes, this movie is intellectual and intense. Although the heavy action seems to take a while to kick off, when it does its excellent. We get a good amount of edge-of-your-seat thrills as well. The cinematography really helps with the thrills aspect. Breath taking locations and impressive camera shots add plenty to the movie. Good cinematography has always been a staple of the Bourne series. They all have a generally good story too and this one is no different. It is a bit confusing at the start, but in a good way. It’s just another way to keep you on your toes.

Jeremy Renner is really establishing himself as a big time modern action star. He can definitely hold his own. But if you want to compare him to Matt Damon in this series (and if you ask anyone that knows me, I tend to do that a lot), well then, actually Matt’s performance is more gritty and somber and all around more believable. Jeremy’s character is ever so slightly light hearted but just as confident and intimidating. It is a close race but I give the edge to Matt. Rachel Weisz is always a good addition to any cast, just about. She nailed her role. Off the top of my head, and for some strange reason, I kept thinking about her role in Constantine while watching her perform in this one. Another sharp performance was given by Edward Norton, another one of those actors that you can’t go wrong with in practically any role (heck even as the Incredible Hulk). Now even though Matt Damon is not in this picture, there is plenty of reference to Jason Bourne. This story basically takes place in parallel with Supremacy and Ultimatum. But looking at this story as a stand alone, the climax doesn’t seem very climactic as the movie ends somewhat abruptly. However, this film is still quality entertainment and it won’t let you down.

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