Review of Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014) by Adam P — 08 Aug 2014

Jack is back! First there was Alec Baldwin, afterward star wars stud Harrison Ford, then Ben Affleck took a turn, and now we join Chris Pine in this latest reboot of the Jack Ryan series in 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit'. My review of 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit'.

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Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit' meet's Jack Ryan (Chris Pine) as an undercover CIA agent in the form of a compliance officer at a stock brokerage. He discovers a possible terrorist plan lead by billionaire Viktor Cherevin (Kenneth Branagh). He must go to Moscow to uncover the plans with the help of wife (Keira Knightly) who unknowingly suspects he is having an affair, as well as a veteran agent (Kevin Costner).

Originally scheduled for a December debut, this Jack Ryan film was booted off its spot in favor of a more awards friendly 'Wolf of Wall Street' which was falling abit behind schedule.

I had low expectations going into this one. I liked the cast but wasn't very fond of its January push. But I have to proclaim, Shadow Recruit is one of the best January releases in recent memory.

Shadow Recruit, is slick and stylish. The action sequences are perfectly choreographed and highly entertaining. Though there are fewer action sequences then one would have hoped for, and expected... those few we are served are full of energy and beautifully filmed.

Not to mention the solid casting. Though I was skeptical of Chris Pine's abilities to lead an action film, he actually does well as Ryan. And he shares a few solid moments with Costner and Knightly who both steal a few scenes. Knightly, however underused, is convincing as Ryan's girlfriend would be Fiancée. Costner, who has seemingly lost some of his flare over the past few years, is back and better then ever as the veteran agent who aids our lead often. Maybe it's his sense in timing when delivering lines or just his charm, no matter what it is; he's still a delightful presence.

Kenneth Branagh not only stars on screen but behind screen as well. He perfectly maneuvers the film from start to finish, wrapping up all he began; he did solid direction with the film, leading it in just the right direction.

However one has to admit that the script has solid dialogue and character development but has a more unoriginal story. It's your basic Jack Ryan story, but this can be better and for worse. It does little to hurt you but it does little to stimulate you either.

All and All, 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit' is a pretty good thriller, with a great cast, powerful action sequences and choreography and solid characterization. This is the rare January release that works. B+ 7/2/14.

'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit' is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of action and violence and brief strong language. It's appropriate for 13 and up.