Review of The Bourne Legacy (2012) by Andrew S — 02 Jun 2013

As it seems every summer, sequels usually dominate the box office. That doesn't meant they're always good, nor does it mean they will necessarily bring in the desired "moviecash" compared to their predecessor(s). In the case of The Bourne Legacy, the newest chapter in the Bourne universe, it's almost unfair to compare this film to the three previous films, which starred Matt Damon, due to the completely new direction of plot line. With that being said, it's only fair to review this film without any comparison to the "Damon" trilogy.

Even though the novels are all based around the life of Jason Bourne, this film completely veers off course with new A-list actor, Jeremy Renner, who portrays Aaron Cross - another product of the same program that created Jason Bourne. With Operation Outcome being shut down, the government aims to eliminate every single trace left of the program, including Cross and his doctor, portrayed by Rachel Weisz. It should be noted that this film parallels the final "Damon" film, The Bourne Supremacy, and mentions Damon's character in several spots throughout the film, tying everything together very nicely. Unfortunately, those hoping for a cameo from Matt Damon will be left disappointed, but the door is certainly open for a Damon/Renner team-up in a future sequel.

A few faces return from the previous trilogy (Joan Allen, most notably), while the additions to this new film franchise are either a major hit or a major miss. Jeremy Renner establishes himself even more so as a new A-list actor (following his Avengers appearance) and Rachel Weisz (Dr. Marta Shearling) continues to be a top-tier actress. Edward Norton (Eric Byer), on the other hand, portrays the weak villain of the film, although it's unfair to call him a villain as Norton's character does very little to create the proper good guy vs. bad guy dynamic. You could certainly call Norton's character flat/boring/insignificant/ect. Let's hope the next sequel improves in that particular department.

With a run time around 2 hours and 15 minutes, the film doesn't take long to suck the audience into the complex plot of drug addiction, chase scenes, and a classic case of running from the "villains." Plot wise, there's very little that sets this film apart from a Bond film or even a film like Safe House. The main characters are constantly on the run, relentlessly being shot at, and have a ridiculous amount of luck helping them through each dire/farfetched situation.

Overall, the film is entertaining and serves to set up the future of the Bourne franchise (the Bourne name is used to continue the franchise in name only, apparently). However, the plot is unoriginal and mediocre, at best. Jeremy Renner is, by far and away, the bright spot of the film. If you're a Renner fan or a fan of the novels, you won't be disappointed.