Review of The Bourne Legacy (2012) by Barry B — 19 Oct 2017

The thinking person's Bourne film that truly takes us deep into the mindset of the agency that set this in motion. We get to meet the people who do the science and get credible evidence of the genetic manipulation and how it works. The chosen 'agents' manipulated by the leaders are true patriots functioning in the belief they are serving the USA and their handlers are sociopathic megalomaniacs who see their capable followers (both scientists and soldiers) as tools so they can eliminate them without remorse.

This is a rather brilliant screenplay and Renner is perfect as the guy who needed points added to his IQ in order to qualify for the army. The pairing with Rachel Weisz sparks and glows - particularly in the scene in the car fleeing the burning house. - "You want out get out. What are you going to do? You've got a plan your a Doctor of course you do".

The unanswered questions about the fate of the Joan Allen character are addressed and once again the guys with the power are going to annihilate her along with Jason, Arron, and Dr. Shearing. It's a shame we won't get to see more of Arron & Marta due to the inability of Damon fans to see the merit in the very different Renner and their discomfort with the science and intelligence defined by the dialogue in this excellent screenplay. LEGACY was just too smart for it's own good - thinking Bourne fans are in the minority and those of us who appreciate the detail of the science and the depth of character definition will suffer the consequences of those who simply want more chase & explosion scenes.