A misplaced notion

Rating: 2/10 (2 January 2013)

In India, one is used to seeing Hindi films, most heroes are Jack Reacher plus Sinatra and Gene Kelly - in built. So the fantasy part is easily digested. and the similarities don't end there. The music is loud and jarring during the opening sequence yet strangely absent at other times.
The miscast Cruise has managed to alienate me from both Tom Cruise the actor and Jack Reacher the i'm-not-a-hero guy. I like Tom's acting (since Legend, mind you) but he is just not able to convey the silent menace that Reacher is. Reacher's whole problem lies in being too big. Never a great thing for an investigator, it is simply incredible to assume that anyone Tom's size is having a problem blending in.
That said, this particular film is so Hindi film like it is not funny. The third person description of Reacher's persona, the good guy shooter in the climax, the fistfight etc all reek of a machismo that this chap on the screen is unable to convince me he has.
The script is good, tight and even. shot taking is neither here nor there. And even if you can overcome your aspersions on the main casting, your will have to make an effort to ignore the quip-like dialogue. Reacher's not a man of many words but he is not one of smart quips either. Also, you will have to ignore the plastic tension between the defense attorney and her investigator. Pike's role as the defence lawyer has no highlights despite padded-up screen time. The only thing real is the black police officer. For once, a good fresh grim looking face.
Why did I bother writing this review. To show that once superstars get involved they can jack the best new franchise up. This was a big movie made small by the big star. Lee Child, Tut tut. Tom Cruise grow up. Or hire other actors if you are the producer too. Read my lips 'for me you can never be Jack Reacher'. By cutting Reacher down to his size he has ensured that people like me stay with the book. Venting complete.