Action the order of the day

Rating: 7/10 (26 March 2008)

Action is the order of the day when remaking a t.v. smash hit like the ever popular "Mission : Impossible". With this in mind, top line scripters David Koepp, Steven Zaillian and Robert Towne, along with director Brian DePalma, have produced a film complimented with tense, nerve racking scenes and adrenalin pumping action, while the f/x pros supply all the hi-tech gadgetry synonymous with "the team".
Tom Cruise, star and co-producer this time, is Ethan Hawke, hot shot point man for Jim Phelps' elite band of covert operatives who undertake those deadly, imperative top secret missions that no-one else can handle. When the team is ambushed and Hawke comes out unscathed, he is immediately suspect and must prove himself innocent of the charge of betrayal, all the while avoiding capture. This catalyst sets the film going as Ethan finds a couple of sympathisers in the disavowed Krieger and Luther. With their help Hawke begins to put the pieces of the puzzle together, and starts to uncover the identity of the real mole.
Whole cast are thoroughly enjoyable, with Cruise leading the way, supported by the lovely Emmanuelle Beart, the increasingly entertaining duo of Jean Reno ("Krieger") and Ving Rhames ("Luther"), and Jon Voight as group leader Jim Phelps. There are a couple of surprise cameos too, form the likes of Kristin Scott-Thomas and Vanessa Redgrave. Obviously it's the look, the pace and the seemingly complex plot that really make the film however.
Cinematography, art and sets are all eye catching as the action jumps from one continent to another and back again. Special effects crew (the amazing ILM) save their best for last in the mind blowing finale, set in the London to Paris rail tunnel. Editing keeps the tempo nicely upbeat, while the groovy original theme (Lalo Schifrin) and new music (Danny Elfman) provide fantastic backing.
The most effective piece of film making has come from director DePalma and his screenwriters. In presenting the storyline very patchily, it appears to have more depth and intrigue than is the case. The plot presentation is so vague in fact that many viewers have complained about being unable to follow the narrative. In truth, the basic premise and outlay are very simple, yet elusive in detail, thus gaining maximum points from audiences seeking a twisting, winding tale. Careful scrutiny and a little analytical after thought will dissolve the mystery and help you understand what went on.
Not quite a master stroke, but "Mission : Impossible" is a flash of genius in the making of an action/thriller form the multi-talented, hit and miss Brian DePalma. Tom Cruise fans, you're in for a treat!
Wednesday, July 24, 1996 - Knox District Centre
De Palma's sharply twisting action pic features an expertly arranged screenplay which milks maximum effect from the deceptively complex story. The taut, if stretched, action sequences add to the tension.
Lalo Schifrin's original score is cleverly re-worked and it accompanies the enjoyable turns of Cruise, Emmanuelle Seigner, Jon Voight, Jean Reno, Ving Rhames and an uncredited Emilio Estevez.
The camera crew and f/x teams add to the spectacle.
Saturday, November 22, 1997 - Video