This is a different story folks

Rating: 7/10 (12 January 2013)

I think, like my son said after watching this film, everyone expected another Bourne story. When they didn't get it, they were disappointed. I wasn't at all.
This is a different story with very different lead characters with different struggles. Because I approached it as such, I really enjoyed it.
We are introduced to Aaron Cross, excellently portrayed by Jeremy Renner, a member of a different deep undercover program than Bourne, taking mysterious medications. What are these all about? Why is he taking them? What do they do? Who else is involved in this program? What are the goals?
Then we find ourselves in a highly secure laboratory following Dr. Marta Shearing, an expert in biochemistry and virology. Rachel Weisz's performance is very visceral and definitely drew me into the story and into caring for her character.
In the background are the happenings of Jason Bourne (during the Bourne Ultimatum) creating mayhem for the CIA putting all of the programs in jeopardy including the program that Aaron Cross is in.
When they come together to try and survive their attackers (a la Bourne) they develop a wonderfully subtle relationship; protective of one another as their teamwork is what gives them a chance of survival.
No, it's not Bourne, it's Cross. It's not all action, there is quite a bit of background detail and vital questions proposed. But the story is interesting and the main characters played by Renner and Weisz were complex, multi-faceted, real, and well developed. Kudos to the two of them for their fine work.
A great quote that is core to the story, "Who told you this was okay?" Food for thought.