Good Old Fashioned Spy Thriller

Rating: Null/10 (15 June 2002)

Matt Damon is not a great actor in the same way that Harrison Ford is not. But he knows the technical aspects of his craft well enough to seamlessly blend into almost any role he chooses. I would have liked to have cared a bit more about his character in this movie, it someone must have decided that his situation has made the character somewhat aloof.
The plot is a bit dated. The bad old CIA has a rogue unit that is out of control and will do anything and everything necessary to clean up after a mistake is made. Chris Cooper does his usual fine job here, in spite of being a little miscast as the leader of this unit. He is a salt of the earth character and just not the wizbang bad guy type.
Casting Franka Potente caused her character to be German. Fine. I want to see a lot more of her. She has an honesty in looks and mannerisms that almost (I said almost) stole a few scenes from Mr. Damon. Poor Julia Stiles was wasted here, but I'm sure her turn will come. Somebody had to play this minor but pivotal role, and I'm glad she was the one.
The location cinematography was very easy on the eyes. I would like to know how they shot in some of the more cramped but colorful spots. It should at least make you want to see Paris, and that alone is a public service.
You will have to suspend reality several times to stay in the moment, but if you can do this, you will be rewarded with lots of good action.