If you are allergic to adrenaline, then I strongly suggest that you never see The Bourne Supremacy. Of course I realize how cliché that sounds, but it is completely true. Paul Greengrass has crafted a thrilling, globe-hoping adventure/action flick, which could and should make James Bond shake in his Armani suit.
Matt Damon returns in the title role as Jason Bourne, a former CIA agent who suffers from amnesia. In the first film, The Bourne Identity, Jason was trying to figure out who he is while staying one step ahead of a CIA hunting the supposed rouge agent. This time Bourne has gotten a grasp on his identity and is trying to form some sort of existence with the love-interest from the first film, Marie (played by Franka Potente). But when the CIA again tracks down Bourne, this time accusing him of a crime he didn’t commit, Jason must become the aggressor to prove his innocence.
Director Paul Greengrass replaces Doug Liman, who reportedly had on-set differences with cast and crew. Although Liman created a very enjoyable film with Identity, Greengrass has crafted something truly unique: a sequel that surpasses the original. Thanks to the often-used hand-held camera, Supremacy has a grittier feeling which places you right in the action. Also improved from the first movie is how Jason shows weakness and emotion without the movie losing its action base, a balance that The Bourne Identity teetered. Although he may tweak some of the details for the better, Greengrass doesn’t mess with a good thing; Supremacy doesn’t separate itself that far from the first film, which is critically a double-edged sword in that while this is an excellent companion piece and movie in general, The Bourne Supremacy doesn’t really have an identity of its own, pun not intended.
The Bourne franchise continues a tradition of using surprisingly competent supporting actors. The Bourne Identity got Chris Cooper, while The Bourne Supremacy gets Joan Allen. Although she herself supports a shockingly large hairdo, her performance is very engaging. Matt Damon continues to prove who got the better acting chops between him and pal Ben Affleck. (In case there was any confusion, that means Matt Damon is the better actor.) Brian Cox and Julia Stiles also reprise their roles from the first film.
Can you name another movie this summer which globe hops from India to Italy and from Amsterdam to Berlin within the cozy confines of under two hours? I know I can’t, and in a parallel observation, I can’t think of another movie this summer which has been as much fun. This is the perfect summer movie to please both those looking for a compelling story, those looking for intense action, and those who enjoyed the first of Bourne’s adventures.
Grade: A-
© 2004 Jacob Sproul
*Note: This was the first review I have written on my brand spankin' new Apple PowerBook. Just thought I would mention that.
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