Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Former Marine turned C.I.A. analyst and financial whiz, Jack Ryan (Chris Pine), uncovers a Russian plot to send the U.S. economy into a second great depression. Deployed to Moscow, Ryan will have to use his cover as a financial analyst to investigate Viktor Cherevin (Kenneth Branagh) all the while dancing precariously close to death. Following the guidance of Commander Harper (Kevin Costner) getting to the bottom of the terrorist plot will take some serious digging. Making matters worse Jack’s girlfriend, Cathy Muller (Keira Knightley), is growing increasingly suspicious of Jack’s activities and plans a surprise visit to Moscow. Now getting out from behind the iron curtain alive will be harder than ever. JackRyan Staying fairly close to Tom Clancy’s original character Director Kenneth Branagh successfully creates an interesting reboot of a fond C.I.A. favorite. And, while we’re not exactly panning new gold in the spy thriller department, a competent and fun story is told none the less. Granted, the final act does make some incredibly large jumps of logic and does unwind into an utter paint by numbers action flick, don’t let that detract from the fun of the rest of the ride. Sharp acting from the ensemble makes for an easy watch, although some of the editing is a bit questionable and stylized. Still worth your attention despite this sea of Oscar madness, Rack Ryan: Shadow Recruit is rated PG-13.