‘Mission Impossible III’ Makes it Personal
Walking out of the ‘MI:III’ screening, I felt duped – in a great way. The minimum I expected was impressive action and special effects, along with an overshadowed, mediocre story (see John Woo’s ‘Mission Impossible II’). But ‘MI:III’ is built on a strong, rough-and-tumble foundation; a moralistic story that mingles – trite as it sounds – love and violence. This film rivals the first franchise installment from just about every angle. There are many reasons this movie works, the most prominent being two lead actors and a director.
Tom Cruise returns as the ‘Mission Impossible’ star, Ethan Hunt. Hunt is a retired secret agent for an American government organization. Now, rather than leading team missions, his life is all about his love, Julia, played well by Michelle Monaghan. Cruise is persuaded, however, to take on a new mission (while this premise sounds tired, it works believably). Cruise’s performance reminds that his talents live up to his fame. Cruise isn’t a one note action star; the dude can act (and perform many of his own stunts, which are eye-popping).
Seymour Philip Hoffman plays Owen Davian, the psychotic antagonist, on whose bad side Hunt unfortunately gets. Hoffman brings an unflinching audacity to his character, which has an unnerving, fascinating effect. He reminds of the overweight, un-athletic bullies of grade school – but with brains.
Yet the star shining brightest, I’m convinced, is Hollywood hot item J.J. Abrams, the creator of TV’s popular ‘Alias’ and ‘Lost.’ The thing about Abrams is that he’s an auteur in nearly every sense (it’s apparently a catchphrase in the TV world to ask “What would J.J. do?”). It’s not much of a stretch to say Abrams is like an Alfred Hitchcock/Charlie Chaplin hybrid. Like Hitchcock, Abrams excels at creating suspense and mystery, while like Chaplin, Abrams can produce, write, direct, and compose works permeated with humanity. Abrams co-wrote, directed, and created some music for ‘MI:III,’ and those familiar with Abrams’ ‘Alias’ will recognize many commonalities, though they probably won’t complain.
‘MI:III’ is a wild ride with something to say. To me it said that protecting your family (biological or societal) will always be the right choice, even under the worst of circumstances. This movie has the best of both worlds; it’s a big budget – Hollywood blockbuster molded with a personal, talented touch. This touch happens to be all about mystery and unpredictable realities. It’s never felt so good to be duped.
Grade: A
Chris Blakesley is a film critic for the Utah Statesman. Comments can be sent to ‘cblakes@cc.usu.edu’