Crazy, Good Fun

Rating: 8/10 (11 May 2015)

Mission: Impossible IV, also known as Ghost Protocol, holds many variations from its forebears. First, is its name. It's edgy, unique and stands out from the previous three. Second, is Ethan's (Cruise) new team. A strong cast backs Cruise. Pegg is a massive breath of fresh air with his light, off-handed humour. He's been upgraded from desk boy to field agent. Patton is the new kick-ass beauty and Renner adds muscle that's not particularly needed because Cruise has all other areas covered. The story is unsurprisingly straight forward; Ethan and co. have a new villain (Nyqvist) to take down who's crippled the IMF (Impossible Mission Force). Nyqvist has been scripted with a bland, lifeless persona. He only shows quality of any worth the moment his life ends. Just one negative point amongst a trifle of goods. Tom is as daring as ever, toppling his stunts in II and III with one that will leave you with clenched butt-cheeks and sweaty palms. The gadgets are incredible and the set-pieces are superb. One in Dubai flowing smoothly into another taking place in a dust storm. Cruise and director Brad Bird have achieved the right level of action and emotion with this MI outing. Let's hope they stick with this formula in future films.