Damon and Potente are brilliant! Ludlum's best movie by far.

Rating: 10/10 (15 June 2002)

I've never been a fan of Ludlum's novels, but I love this movie. I read the first 6 or 7 Ludlum books--- and they all seemed to be the same plot, same characters, same implausible and tedious world-spy-villain conspiracies, etc. Either Ludlum has matured, and now writes better books, or else this screenplay simply departed from his norm and did something different (Ludlum is also credited as "Executive Producer" of this flick, whatever that means). This movie version of a Ludlum book has snap, depth, and an interest that goes far beyond Ludlum's 1970s and 1980s work.
Matt Damon is brilliant--- he has a believability and warmth that most other "action star" kind of doods sorely lack. Franka Potente really establishes herself as an amazing and wonderful new international star. She spoke English before, in "Blow," but had a limited role in that movie. Here she gets to be the co-star, holds a major role and carries almost as much of the flick as Matt Damon. She is the real deal! Her intelligence, grace, and charm of course always shined through to American audiences in her German language roles. She is equally attractive and compelling speaking English this time. I expect to see much more of her in the future.
Overall, a great movie, and a great couple of hours spent in the theater. Top-notch entertainment!