Almost certainly the best action film of 2007

Rating: 9/10 (1 January 2008)

The Bourne Ultimatum is the third and final film of the Bourne trilogy. It builds on the themes of identity and national conspiracy, while also presenting some of the most stylish and intense action sequences ever recorded. This time around, Jason Bourne discovers a source that is connected with his past. He takes the final steps toward discovering his identity while simultaneously avoiding CIA capture. He travels through Moscow, Paris, London, Madrid, Tangier, and finally New York City before completing his journey.
The action sequences are simply incredible. Rather than focusing on stationary punches or gun fights, they always involve 1. Bourne being chased or 2. Bourne chasing someone. Often, the sequences alternate between the CIA surveillance room and the actual area of action. As a result, its a chaotic but well defined hunt.
The most noticeable feature of the film is the shaky camera. The camera trembles for literally the entire time, even during discussion scenes. While its not distracting, its hard to tell if it gives any benefit. It certainly adds to the style, so I won't argue too much.
The plot has a few well placed twists to keep things interesting. The acting is realistic, although the character motives are not always believable. The dialog almost completely consists of technical discussion or orders, with few moments in between to get a real look at Bourne's tortured life. The pacing is excellent, switching between intense action and methodic planning, always slowly building up to the finale. The ending of the movie is simply perfect, both in length and clarity.
A sacrifice occurs between realism and style. Any sensible person knows that driving a car off a parking ramp, jumping between buildings, or navigating this accurately through death zones is suicide. It surely isn't realistic, but its awesome; that is what matters. Above all else, the Bourne Ultimatum is an action film, and in that it succeeds.