The last time I saw a production this good, it was David Mamet's Spartan (2004, with Val Kilmer). I could have sworn Mamet must be involved here (he isn't), but the writers did an excellent job adapting a Thomas Perry stand alone novel which I have not read.
The actors, naturally, are superb. I'm sure glad Jeff Bridges is the most fit 70-something this side of Clint Eastwood, clothed appearances to the contrary. Lithgow, Brenneman, and some lesser know actors deliver great performaces as well.
Most surprising is the directing, which is excellent as well considering the past experience of the director was some CGI-laden Spiderman movies. This guy knows how to do his job very well! So well, you must turn the sound off on a repeat viewing if you want to truly notice it - the sure test of a solid movie (though the soundtrack here is very complimentary).
An absolute 10/10 from me. While familiar enough not to lose viewers, it is necessary to pay attention, especially when few words are spoken. There is some necessary exposition, and requisite action and violence, but this is so far removed from the normal "ex spy" tropes that it is rewarding for fans of the genre. If you like Amazon's Jack Ryan, this ain't it....
The actors, naturally, are superb. I'm sure glad Jeff Bridges is the most fit 70-something this side of Clint Eastwood, clothed appearances to the contrary. Lithgow, Brenneman, and some lesser know actors deliver great performaces as well.
Most surprising is the directing, which is excellent as well considering the past experience of the director was some CGI-laden Spiderman movies. This guy knows how to do his job very well! So well, you must turn the sound off on a repeat viewing if you want to truly notice it - the sure test of a solid movie (though the soundtrack here is very complimentary).
An absolute 10/10 from me. While familiar enough not to lose viewers, it is necessary to pay attention, especially when few words are spoken. There is some necessary exposition, and requisite action and violence, but this is so far removed from the normal "ex spy" tropes that it is rewarding for fans of the genre. If you like Amazon's Jack Ryan, this ain't it....