Lacks life

Rating: Null/10 (26 July 2004)

Spoilers!!!
Although Matt Damon is naturally the center of the Bourne stories, it's Franka Potente that makes Bourne Identity alive. The sparkle between the two added a vital dimension to the otherwise somewhat lifeless storyline of an amnesia victim searching for his identity (which we have seen only too often) and a cool, sharp, betrayed secret agent fighting back (ditto). The untimely exit of Potente in Bourne Supremacy removes that vital dimension. Julia Stiles (who was actually better than Kirsten Dunst in Mona Lisa Smiles) initially shows some promise of being Potente's replacement, but turns out to be pitifully under-utilized. Hope that she comes back in Bourne III, if they are ever going to make one.
There appears to be considerable compliant about the screen in a constant state of agitation, not just during the car chase scenes, but also whenever there is ANY physical movement by ANYBODY. A debate seems pointless. I do recognize though the viewpoint that this so-called Blair-witch-project treatment does have some effect in projecting the mental state of Jason Bourne.
In terms of the cast, there shouldn't be any complaint. As mentioned, there's Julia Stiles. Those who have watched and liked Lilja 4-ever would be delighted to see Oksana Akinshina. Brian Cox is good to watch. Even more so is Joan Allen, in a role that is perfect for her. Matt Demon is very good to watch indeed. But even with all these....is that enough?