Cinema Review - Jack Reacher

Much has been made of Tom Cruise's casting as the title character in Jack Reacher but such is life with some adaptations of books these days. Fortunately, I went into the film with no knowledge of the character from the books, but after leaving the cinema I will be seeking out the books to compare. Such is the strength of Jack Reacher that it has compelled me to head to the source material and make comparisons.

Moving on to the film itself, Jack Reacher sees the title character (Cruise), a loner, a stray, a drifter, whatever description you see fit, called into investigation when a mystery sniper shoots a number of innocent individuals seemingly at random. When the suspected culprit calls on Reacher, it appears a much wider web of deceit and lies has been weaved and a person like Reacher may be the only one who can solve the case.

Casting choice aside, Jack Reacher is a well-oiled machine of an action thriller. Providing its fair share of invigorating set pieces, combat scenes and intelligence, it is among one of the most clever thrillers in recent times. While many would suggest that an actor such as Liam Neeson would have been deemed fit for the billing, it is undeniable that Tom Cruise can carry a film of this magnitude and once again does so with ease.

Supported by the likes of Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins and the impressive David Oyelowo, Cruise is in good company, and one cannot forget the vindictive turn of one Werner Herzog. Given few scenes in which to make an impact, Herzog tackles his role as chief villain by the scruff of the neck and leaves a shiver down the spine with every word he utters. It is almost a let-down that he is given so little time to leave an impact, but a professional such as he delivers all the same.

Breaking away from the blockbusting Mission: Impossible franchise for the time being, Tom Cruise delivers yet another thrilling encounter and this time proves brawn and intelligence can be combined to provide an enthralling film experience. Many may argue the toss on casting and relation to Lee Childs' books but in terms of filmmaking Jack Reacher is one not to be ignored. 

Film Rating: 4 F's out of 5