Review of Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One (2023) by Extrashotlatte — 16 Jul 2023

Given that I saw the trailer for the first time half an hour before I went to the cinema (and squeezed in a YouTube series recap), if it wasn't for a co-worker mentioning this film was about the sacrifices made by friends for each other, I really would not have been interested in this film at all.

Without resorting to hyperbole - this movie is freaking amazing. It's the kind of 2.5hr plus movie that doesn't feel that long at all, engaging the audience with incredible action sequences, subtle yet impactful character moments, and all-round excellent performances by all.

As noted above, I hadn't kept track of the most recent MI films so wasn't attuned to the comradery and friendship that developed between Ethan, Luther, Benji and Isla. Dead Reckoning allows the cast to shine in their roles and their chemistry is wonderful to watch.

Grace, the newest member of the team, is well-written and perfectly cast as a skilled international thief, but is completely out of her depth when her life - and the fate of the world - is on the line. Her growth is natural and cathartic and the audience is rooting for her to succeed.

Tom Cruise truly is one of the few action hero superstars of our time. In the last couple of years, he has helmed two of the most entertaining blockbusters audiences have seen in a very, very long time. Both films take legacy characters and build upon them, upping the stakes and allowing our hero to make choices consistent with their character and arc. And with both critical acclaim and smashing the box office, maybe the film industry could take some notes from Mr. Cruise.

It goes without saying the stunt work, location filming, and grand scale of this film is breathtaking. There are some pacing issues and awkward leans into comedy, but overall, Dead Reckoning is the exhilarating tension-filled ride we've all been aching for and a welcome departure from the rushed CGI worlds we've endured in recent times.

Although it's a two-parter, the film has its own ending, and sets up perfectly for the next one.

And I can't wait.