“The Bourne Ultimatum” (Universal Pictures)
The Ultimate Bourne
When was the last time you saw a threequel that was the best of a series “Pirates of the Caribbean 3,” maybe. But in the case of the “Bourne” series the third time is definitely the charm. Director Paul Greengrass and star Matt Damon have definitely saved their best game for now. This is the movie with the best plot, the best action and the best acting to date.
At the start of the movie Jason Bourne (Damon) is still trying to find out what has made him into the killer he is and why. He gets a lead on a man who might know his back story and he sets off to find him. Meanwhile renegade CIA chief Noah Vosen (David Strathairn) is looking for this possible turncoat and for Bourne. Pamela Landry (Joan Allen), Bourne’s old boss, is trying to figure out just what Vosen is doing while keeping an open mind about Bourne.
Bourne’s pursuit of the truth takes him to Paris, London, Tangiers and other locales. He ultimately ends up in New York where it all started and now where it will all end. Bourne will not rest until he knows who did what to him, and while he searches the body count rises.
Damon is totally up to the role of Bourne. He doesn’t have a lot of dialogue but in this movie actions speak louder than words. He is strong, silent and ferocious. Allen is cool and contained as Pam. She is so compelling that you wish she had more to do in the film. Albert Finney makes a brief appearance but has a lasting impact on the movie.
Strathairn is wormy and conniving as Vosen. He makes him a despicable character that you love to hate. Julia Styles is back again as Nicky Parsons and this time you see a glimmer of hope for a romantic relationship between her and Bourne.
The movie starts off fast and stays that way to the very end. This is edge of the seat excitement and most of it is believable. Of course there are a couple or more coincidences that have to be taken as just that. This does not interfere with the enjoyment of the movie at all.
The film is rated PG-13 for profanity and violence. Neither is excessive.
The film has an open ending indicating there may be more installments to come. If they can reach the quality and caliber of this one, then bring them on. Damon as Bourne is a perfect fit. Greengrass directing “Bourne” is even better.
I scored “The Bourne Ultimatum” the ultimate 8 out of 10,
