Usually, one man having this much control and this big of an ego doesn’t bode well for a film franchise. But for the last 27 years, Tom Cruise has been proving us wrong with his relentless drive and vision for the Mission: Impossible franchise. Things have kicked into high gear since the fourth film, and Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One continues that momentum.
The plot of Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One is complex, weaving a narrative that involves a sentient AI, past betrayals, and a race against time. While the plot can be occasionally convoluted, it covers a timely topic — the rise of AI and its potential implications. The film explores this theme without resorting to the usual clichés, offering a nuanced perspective on the issue.
Interestingly, the film’s plot mirrors Cruise’s stance on AI in filmmaking. Hunt’s battles against ‘The Entity’ is similar to Cruise’s real-life opposition to the use of AI in moviemaking. This adds a layer of meta-commentary to the film, further enhancing its narrative depth.
Having directed three films in the series, Director Christopher McQuarrie deeply understands the franchise’s DNA. Hence, McQuarrie is charismatically able to present a unique vision to the franchise. He expertly balances the film’s action, humor, and character development, creating an entertaining and emotionally engaging film. His direction is confident and assured, showcasing a clear vision for the franchise’s future.
The usual gang is all back, including Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt, Rebecca Ferguson as Ilsa Faust, Simon Pegg as Benji Dunn, and Ving Rhames as Luther Stickell. We also have the additions of Hayley Atwell as Grace, Pom Klementieff as Paris, Esai Morales as the dangerous Gabriel, Shea Wigham, and Greg Tarzan Davis as two exasperated US spies tracking down Hunt, and Vanessa Kirby as the returning White Widow.
Hayley Atwell’s character, Grace, is a welcome addition to the franchise. A skilled thief who finds herself entangled in Hunt’s mission, Grace is an enjoyable character who brings a new dynamic to the team.
Atwell’s chemistry with Cruise is palpable, adding an emotional depth to their relationship.
Grace is skilled, just not as everyone else is in the super-spy game, so Hunt has to keep an eye on her even as she tries to slip away and sell this film’s McGuffin to the highest bidder.
Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One introduces a new antagonist in the form of Gabriel. Gabriel is a character from Ethan Hunt’s past, and this adds a personal layer to their conflict. His character is menacing, with Morales delivering a chilling performance that adds a sense of danger and unpredictability to the film. Gabriel is not just a physical threat, but also a psychological one, using his knowledge of Hunt’s past to manipulate and challenge him.
However, despite Morales’ strong performance, Gabriel’s character feels underdeveloped. His motivations and backstory leave room to be fully explored, leaving the audience with more questions than answers. This lack of character development prevents Gabriel from reaching the same level of complexity and depth as previous antagonists in the series.
He is menacing, yes, but without a well-developed character arc, he falls short of being a truly memorable villain. Phillip Seymour Hoffman as Owen Davian remains the series’ greatest antagonist yet.
On the other hand, Gabriel’s henchwoman, Paris is a more successful addition to the film. While her character is also primarily an obstacle for the heroes, Klementieff’s performance brings a unique energy and charisma to the role. Paris is ruthless and relentless, providing a formidable challenge for Hunt and his team. Despite her limited screen time, Klementieff manages to make a strong impression, creating a character that is both intriguing and memorable.
Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One is no slouch in the action department, with each set piece meticulously crafted to raise the tension and stakes throughout the film.
The opening scene aboard a Russian submarine immediately immerses the audience in the high-stakes world of ‘Mission: Impossible’. The confined space of the submarine adds a layer of tension and claustrophobia, setting the tone for the rest of the film.
The airport scene showcases the film’s ability to find action and excitement in unexpected places. It introduces new characters, advances the plot, and maintains a high level of tension and excitement, turning a mundane location into a thrilling set piece.
The car chase through the narrow streets of Venice is a standout sequence. The choice of a small car, a common sight in the city, adds a touch of realism and humor. This chase is not just about high-speed action, but also about the rapidly evolving dynamic between Hunt and Grace as they have to deal with multiple factions trying to apprehend them.
The train set piece is a spectacle of tension and excitement. Despite the use of more CGI than usual for a ‘Mission: Impossible’ film, the sequence works due to the high stakes and the constant escalation of danger. The sheer audacity of the stunt work involved sets it apart from other action sequences.
Of course, preceding the train sequence is the much-advertised motorcycle jump off a cliff. While thrilling, it’s a step below the airplane and Burj Khalifa stunts from the fifth and fourth films.
The plot brings back a key element with the paranoia and double-crosses from the first and third films.
In particular, Kittridge (Henry Czerny) is a driven, pragmatic spy boss who’s playing both sides of the board to make sure that the U.S. comes out on top. There’s another top-level character who’s also playing both sides, but his presence dilutes the impact of Kittridge’s actions.
Also, the film is nearly three hours long! During the drawn-out sequence in Venice, I was almost convinced I was watching the climax, but the film had another 75 minutes to go. It’s paced as well as such a long movie can be, but it might still drag on at times for some viewers.
Overall, Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One is a worthy addition to both the franchise and 2023’s summer blockbuster slate. While it’s a two-parter, it has enough of an ending while still laying out the pieces for the finale. Unfortunately, even Tom Cruise doesn’t seem to escape the effects of this year’s punishing box office figures: the film’s initial $90 million opening weekend projection has been readjusted to 75 million. Well, if even Tom Cruise can’t save this summer, then who can?
Apparently, Barbenheimer can. But that’s a story for another time.