One movie course: Turn winning formula into losing formula.

Rating: 4/10 (2 October 1999)

It would seem the "Impossible" mission is to find as many ways as possible to degrade an original inspired series/idea. First let's get rid of the Jim Phelps character so that Tom Cruise's ego has no competitors and he can take over the lead spot in any unfortunate spin offs from this mess. Second let's forget clever story lines and substitute ridiculous unbelievable special effects. Cruise must have been made of asbestos to survive the train explosion scene. Brian de Palma "directed" this ? The (original)I.M.F force was a team effort lead by the uncorruptible Jim Phelps and they relied on brains plus meticulous planning to succeed in their missions. Each member had his part to play in order for the team to survive and they were the good guys saving us from the bad guys. This movie will do nothing for de Palma's reputation. The final result is a disappointment , more so because in places the movie does get it right and it becomes evident what could have been and should have been.