Not the Bourne We Love,....But Still Thrilling!

Rating: 8/10 (11 February 2014)

To be fair, it would take a lot to make a film like any of the films in the original Bourne trilogy. Like most people, I was dismayed when I heard Paul Greengrass and Matt Damon would not be back for the fourth film. But alas, they have found a way to continue the franchise. The fourth movie in the set, The Bourne Legacy happens to be a fair thriller that is better than anyone could hope for. Even though the plot seems murky and the script a little muddled, I'm glad to say that the absence of Matt Damon does not result in any failure.
Tony Gilroy replaces Greengrass at the helm and as he worked with the first three films, Gilroy proves to be an apt director. The government is bent on destroying their program and that includes the termination of their agents. Aaron Cross escapes, and with Jason Bourne-like skills, he does all he can to get medication for himself and avoid the authorities.
I think this film works because the acting is very strong. Jeremy Renner is no Matt Damon, but he is one of the most capable action stars today and shows off his moves here quite well. Rachel Weisz does a good job as the doctor and has a few pivotal scenes. Edward Norton essentially is the government baddie as he tracks down Cross and does well.
Overall, this film is better than anyone could have hoped for, even with expectations set so high. There are several big action pieces here and some are quite lengthy. I think the best action sequence is at the start of the film with the battle between Cross, the alpha wolf, and the nuke. The cinematography is top-notch and luckily, there does not seem to be much shaky camera. While nowhere as impressive as the original trilogy, this film still packs quite a punch. I rate this film 8/10.