Well written and Tom as good as always!.
Fantasy is missing in the Genres!
Was expecting a more realistic movie, the plot was just too convenient for Cruise.
A decent thriller, held my interest from start to finish and Tom was great.
Based on Lee Child's fictional character and adapted from the Jack Reacher novel 'One Shot' director Christopher McQuarrie (The Way of the Gun and the upcoming MI Rogue Nation) brings us a smooth charismatic performance from Tom Cruise (Top Gun, The Firm, Cocktail, Born on Fourth of July, Few Good Men) as the lead character, a ex-military investigator and nomad. Some people can argue that it's too slow paced, weak script, but as a lover of the novels themselves, this is the Jack Reacher I would like see on the big screen (much like Chris Pine's version of Jack Ryan in Shadow Recruit). Some great sequences and a good performance from Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) actually makes this a watchable thiller, it's good Hollywood have stayed true to the character that Lee Child's created and if you've read any of the novel's you'll see this in the movie itself, the way that Tom portrays this on screen. Truthfully, can't wait for the sequel.
Entertaining but ultimately fairly generic detective thriller. After a fairly intense and intriguing opening to the film, there is very little that this film offers that is in any way original or refreshing but it is well made and another vehicle for Cruise to dominate. Here the main draw is the character of Jack Reacher, and Cruise is always watchable in roles like this, but on the evidence of this film, Reacher is essentially a cross between Dirty Harry and Martin Riggs and a more intriguing backstory is only hinted. Perhaps a sequel will have a stronger focus on the title character, but when the film itself is named after the main character, it is only fair to expect a stronger focus on the character himself.
Rubbish - the books are good but...
So, spoilers ahead. I don't want to be the guy who ruins the film for you, so please, unless you've seen the film, do not read on, fair warning given.
There were two key paths I feel weren't explored far enough, despite the film being pretty lengthy (without a dull moment, may I add).
Point 1) Sort of two parts, but still one point. I don't think they pursued the thought-provoking aspect of the victims lives as much as they could've done. That scene with Pike in the house of the father of one of the victims was so very touching and emotional - yet that was the last we saw of the aspect. The character of Reacher demanded that if he was to view Barr objectively, she, as Barr's defence, should get to know the lives of the victims. Which brings me onto the second part of this point - the victim on the bench and the victim with the watch, purportedly having an affair. Was this just a way into the characters thinking the victims weren't random and thus reaching the realization of Oline's position? I know the affair was irrelevant, but we have a glimpse into their lives, a glimpse into the nanny's life,... for what, the emotional path that wasn't gone down? I don't think that aspect was developed enough.
Point number 2) Much briefer this one, but what was the motive of the Detective Emerson character to be under the control of The Zec? It seemed that he was working for him because he hadn't got a choice - what was The Zec holding over him, controlling him with?? Did they avoid that expansion so that we wouldn't feel sorry for Emerson when Reacher shoots him? If so, why present us with the limp plot point of Emerson being forced to obey as his reason for betraying the badge? Yes, give us a motive so it's believable, but to actually try to develop it.
Anyway, just my thoughts.
Title: Jack Reacher
Basic Plot Summary:
When a former military sniper is accused of killing five people, he requests the assistance of Jack Reacher, a former military investigator with a reputation for getting results. As Reacher digs into the case, he uncovers a web of conspiracy and corruption that goes far deeper than he initially anticipated.
Analysis/Evaluation:
"Jack Reacher" is a thrilling ride from start to finish, embracing its genre with a kinetic energy that propels the narrative forward. Christopher McQuarrie's direction skillfully balances the tension and action, creating a film that holds the viewer's attention throughout. The film has a consistent and engaging pace, with every scene either pushing the plot forward or delving deeper into the complex characters.
Characters:
Tom Cruise shines as the titular character, Jack Reacher. His performance embodies the tough-as-nails, no-nonsense approach of the character, making him both likable and intimidating. Rosamund Pike gives a strong performance as Helen Rodin, a defense attorney caught up in the storm of the case. The antagonist played by Werner Herzog, known as "The Zec", is chilling and memorable.
Acting:
Tom Cruise is in top form in "Jack Reacher". Cruise brings a captivating mix of rugged determination and charisma to the role. Rosamund Pike and Werner Herzog, among others, deliver commendable performances that enhance the overall quality of the film.
Design, Writing, Production Values:
The film is well-shot, with dynamic cinematography that emphasizes the action and tension in each scene. The screenplay, penned by McQuarrie, is engaging and clever, never deviating from its purpose. The production values of the film are high, resulting in a polished, visually impressive final product.
Overall Entertainment Value:
"Jack Reacher" is a gripping action thriller that offers ample entertainment. It's a film that revels in its genre, delivering high-octane action, suspense, and an intriguing mystery to solve.
Music and Special Effects:
The music in the film adds to the tension and atmosphere, while the special effects are well-executed, especially during the action sequences.
Praise and Critique:
The film excels in its presentation of action and suspense, anchored by a solid performance from Cruise. However, the film's narrative could have benefited from further exploration of its supporting characters.
Evaluation:
"Jack Reacher" is a thrilling action film that keeps viewers engaged from beginning to end. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted action movie.
Comparison:
While some may draw comparisons to other action films or thrillers, "Jack Reacher" differentiates itself with its unique protagonist and conspiracy-driven plot. It's more reminiscent of a classic detective story than a standard action film, but with modern thrills and a high-octane pace.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Jack Reacher" is a robust and engaging action thriller. It offers a blend of intrigue, action, and drama that keeps viewers engaged throughout. Tom Cruise's charismatic performance, coupled with Christopher McQuarrie's adept direction, makes for an entertaining and memorable film. In the words of Jack Reacher himself, "Remember, you wanted this."
Bathroom fight scene was funny, but unfortunately because it looked like a parody to action movies.
I want to hate Tom Cruise but every time I see one of his movies I end up enjoying it. "Oblivion", the "Mission Impossible" series, "War of the Worlds", it doesn't matter. In almost every case, I'll enjoy what I'm watching. And once again, I find that Cruise satisfies as "Jack Reacher". A saavy, smart, deadly drifter that lives entirely "off the grid", until a sniper attack in Washington DC draws his attention and involves him in new events associated with his military past.
Cruise isn't particularly convincing as the super-sleuth, assassin, etc., that is Reacher, it's just that he's so damned personable as an actor. He's always Tom Cruise to me no matter what movie he's in, but it doesn't matter because I'm always entertained by him.
"Jack Reacher" doesn't have the strongest cast, other than the always awesome Robert Duvall, but it doesn't matter because Cruise carries the whole works. Actually, Werner Herzog is snicker-inducing as the bad guy, which added a bit to my enjoyment.
I was impressed by the car chase that occurs about halfway through. Cruise hammers a Chevy Chevelle hard and it's a visceral chase. If cars felt pain, that Chevelle would be in the ICU.
Struggled getting through it. Has some good scenes but it's way to slow.
Watched it three days ago, already totally forgot about it. Save your time, don't bother …
There was a time—let's call it "The 80s"—when action movies didn't need CGI cheats, shaky-cam and ADD-editing to entertain us. They also didn't have to destroy ten city blocks, have a "clever" hook or feel the need to tack on a social message to justify their carnage. No, all they needed was a reason for some good old steak and potatoes action and a star to anchor it all. 2012's Jack Reacher has these qualities in spades.
Maybe this won't appeal to the younger generation who need to have their senses constantly bombarded, but for the rest of us, Jack Reacher is a solid bit of retro-refreshment.
It's too complicated & the ending was bad
Haha.
Tom Cruise finally has a ugly shirt-less body.
"Jack Reacher" is an enjoyable suspense/thriller starring Tom Cruise. The film is based on a book which I have not read but has been praised by many to be an awesome book. The story revolves around mystery and investigation as Tom Cruise tries to reveal the real bad guys behind a tragic event. Tom Cruise does a great job as Reacher, making the character look badass and smart without making it look over the top. Overall the film is very enjoyable from start to finish and I definitely recommend it to whoever likes action/suspense-thrillers.
Just as last time, I feel Jack Reacher falls a bit short when compared to the books. I have realized that comparing movies and TV to books is kind of hopeless in most cases, so I tried to keep an open mind.
It kinda worked. Tom Cruise is still very far from how I envision Jack Reacher, but since the story capture some of what Jack Reacher is all about, he gets a pass. So does the rest of the cast for that matter.
So...I have come to the conclusion that Jack Reacher is an ok way to waste a couple of hours.
Jack Reacher...yeah...well...Is Tom Cruise really tall enough to play a character that is described as 6 feet 5 inches tall in the book? Well...It worked...to a degree.
I'm a huge fan of Lee Childs Jack Reacher series of books. They are quite fun and it was with great fear I watched this for the first time right after it got out. I had a certain picture of what Jack Reacher looked like and how he behaved. Tom Cruise was so far from this image that I thought this would probably be total shit. To my total surprise...it wasn't all that bad.
The movie, as a whole, was a bit slow, the pacing was off, and a few things were left unexplained. And here comes the point...How can a movie that feels slow and sluggish manage to leave so many plotholes?
Anyway...Tom Cruise wasn't bad, the rest of the cast wasn't bad, and there were both excitement and laughs. If I hadn't read, and liked, the books I think I would have felt this one was a bit better.
The reason my better half and I rewatched this was to prepare for a viewing of the sequel. I'm not sure I would have done that otherwise.
If you haven't seen it, it's worth a look...especially if you haven't read the books.
this is most stupid movie of Tom Cruise
A must watched movie!!! So awesome GREAT MOVIE!!!!
Badass fight scenes.
Excellent movie, better than the second. I think it’s also one of Tom’s best performances.
Great movie. Loved the action, loved the story and the witty dialogues. I had not watched a Cruise's movie in awhile and was sceptical, but I was lovely surprised.
As a fan of the novels, I went in with low expectations. It wasn't anything fantastic, but the film did exceed my expectations, and I enjoyed it.
Another one for the good guys! Fun movie, but predictable: good guys win, bad guys die. The philosophical quotes and the "most are not free" scene seem forced and the humor is shallow, but still good to have. I enjoyed it.
no bad movie. great camera angles and shots.
i didn't expected the one-crime-case-szenario, but in the end a good actioner.
7/10
Not as secretive as I thought it would be
Cool film. A bit boring at parts.
Not my first time to watch this but watching it today was like seeing it for the first time. Excellent movie with plenty of action, suspense, intrigue, and even some lighthearted moments thrown in to keep it from being completely dark. It should be noted, for first-time viewers, that this is not an "action" movie; it's much more a suspense/thriller than your typical "action" flick with lots of exploding cars and shootouts. Don't expect Die Hard if you decide to watch this. There were numerous curve balls thrown in the mix to keep you guessing (at least, to me) without it becoming overly weird and/or disjointed with a lot of loose ends. Was it cheesy in some parts? Of course; it's a MOVIE; it's people play-acting. There will always be those roll-your-eyes moments unless you're watching The Food Network. While I've never been a Tom Cruise fan, he was excellent in this role. Robert Duvall, even though playing a fairly minor role, just added to the fun of this movie and Rosamund Pike was stunning in her role. I don't know if it's her facial features or just excellent cinematography but wow, she pulled off those suspense scenes like a champ. The lighting, musical score, cinematography all the way through this was excellent, making it not only a good story but very enjoyable to watch. Definitely worth seeing even more than once.
May not be groundbreaking, but it's undeniably entertaining, especially for fans of action-packed films. With Tom Cruise in the lead role, you can expect plenty of thrilling action sequences. While it might not reinvent the wheel, it delivers what you'd expect from a solid action movie. If you're in the mood for some high-octane entertainment, Jack Reacher won't disappoint.
A bland thriller from the team that would go on to make two of the best action movies of the decade.
It only gets sporadically interesting during its few moments of action.
4/10
I’ve know watch both movies and the series. You can certainly tell the movies were adjusted to suit the Tom Cruise persona. Comparing the two was like chalk and cheese Alan Ritchson portrayal the character did more justice to fictional character than Tom Cruise version which had more in common with his fictional mission impossible character.
"You don't find this guy unless he wants to be found."
Now that I have seen the tv show, I know that Cruise was miscast for this movie. While he has a few good fight scenes, overall the movie felt a little generic.
"I mean to beat you to death and drink your blood from a boot."
First, I want to say this. I was surprised by how similar this film felt to Dirty Harry. The story shared some similarities, and the score sounded comparable to Lalo Schifrin's score for that film. And some aspects of the filmmaking, like the pacing and camera work, mixed with the score, created an almost identical-feeling atmosphere that felt like Dirty Harry. Tom even reminded me of Clint Eastwood in that film; his voice and delivery of a line.
With that said, I want to say something else. Maybe it's because I watched the show before this, but that seems more appropriate. A TV show seems perfect for Jack Reacher. And there is one now, thanks to this film and Tom Cruise. I'm not too sure about it; the first season, anyway. I do think the budget/scale of films/this film would be better on top of a TV show format, although that'll never happen; the difference between films and shows is too significant: and Tom Cruise brings more to the screen than Alan Ritchson, but at least, to a certain extent, a TV show feels more appropriate/works better.
Now, while that may seem to imply not liking this film, it's the opposite. Well, not to the extent of love, but that's beside the point. It was immersive, which affected me that way, and surprisingly, the writing and direction were super solid, meaning I was along for the ride, unable to predict. I was more surprised to see how it was the opposite for many people and how there were loads of clichés/it was predictable. Some of that seemed to stem from/include Tom Cruise, giving me the impression that some people have a bone to pick with him, playing into their opinion of the film.
Yes, his height doesn't fit the character.
Yes, his overall size/physique is too small/doesn't fit the character.
Yes, Jack Reacher is super intimidating in the books (?), while in this film, Tom wasn't, necessarily.
Yes, Tom's portrayal, personality/acting-wise, may not have been Jack Reacher, in a sense.
Yes, Tom seems to play similar characters or act similarly in different roles, which DOESN'T make him a bad actor, and this sentiment seems taken too far sometimes.
Did I get all of them? All the common ones? Let me know.
So what?
My point is that, when it comes to Tom Cruise, too many people seem to get their panties in a bunch. If hating his films is more about his personal life, there's more merit. I still think it's too much to allow to affect how you perceive his movies.
Back to what I was talking about: being surprised that many people thought this film was predictable and cliché-ridden, having other problems with it, and not enjoying it as much as I did. The more I think about it, the story/antagonists were a bit bland, which didn't stand out while watching it. But not to the extent of negatively impacting the film, in my opinion.
Besides that, the dialogue was crisp and well-written. The direction by Christopher McQuarrie was good: specific moments regarding the camera work and certain shots. That's two for two by him. Well done, Chris. Josh Olson may deserve a little credit, too, depending on whether not all of what he wrote was re-written by Christopher.
The two things that stood out the most were the score by Joe Kraemer and the cinematography by Caleb Deschanel. The latter was at its best during the car chase sequence, which was also one of the film's best parts, if not the best.
And the action, what there was of it, as this was more story-driven and a thriller, was pretty good. The stand-outs (to no one's surprise, I'm sure) were the fight sequences, specifically the one against Jeb (and his friends) and the one in the bathroom; the latter being the best; the comedic element was golden.
All the performances were serviceable. Tom Cruise and Rosamund Pike (and their general chemistry) were the highlights in that aspect, although her American accent sounded, at times, rough around the edges. Jai Courtney and Werner Herzog were underwhelming as antagonists. Richard Jenkins and David Oyelowo were alright. Robert Duvall subtly cashed in a decent performance. An honorable mention, and someone who probably went under the radar, whom I thought did good, was Joseph Sikora. His acting at the end shot him up to Tom and Rosamund, performance-wise. He should've had Jai's role or even Werner's as the main antagonist. And Alexia Fast/Michael Raymond-James delivered decent enough performances as well.
Ultimately, this film was held together by quite a few elements. Christopher McQuarrie's direction and screenplay, Tom Cruise, Joe Kraemer's score, Caleb Deschanel's cinematography, and while the story was slightly bland, especially compared to everything else, it still managed to hold its own. It was one of the better films of the previous few I've watched, although I wouldn't say it was better, as shown by my rating, which is my most common one. But it got the job done.
Been a few years since I last saw this and a few before that when I watched it at the cinema.
I won't retread old ground - or mention that Tom Cruise shouldn't play a 6ft 5 guy.
What struck me about this film on rewatch was twofold... That the music felt like a genuine 70s thriller. And that the approach of Cruise to this film felt like he was channeling Steve McQueen. I don't think either are accidental.
It's a well-made, interesting, gritty thriller. Not perfect but very solid.
(And as for that fight scene against multiple guys... It's more believable than it is unbelievable. I don't get all the negative attention to it. If you're going to call out the unbelievable angle, call out that line about 'drinking his blood from a boot'. That line stank.)
7.75/10
Jack Reacher > John Wick .
Qwerty
Tom Cruise brings Lee Child’s signature character to the big screen in Jack Reacher. Based on the novel One Shot, former Army investigator Jack Reacher is called upon by the suspect of a public shooting, and Reacher soon discovers that there’s more to the shooting than anyone realizes. Cruise delivers a strong performance that’s energetic and witty. However, there are some pacing and script issues. But the action scenes are well-done and add a lot of excitement and intensity to the film. While it has few problems, Jack Reacher is a solid thriller with a compelling and suspenseful mystery.
Good movie and even better book. Cruise is an excellent Reacher - despite the differences in the characters between the book and the movie. This one's definitely a notch better than the sequel.
I've watched this one a few times. Enjoyable story and better than Part 2 IMO
A good mix of action and humor
I've got to be honest I loved the Werner Herzog character - you do get the feeling the Zec is one evil mofo.
an easy movie to watch again and again
jack reacher was a pretty good movie for me.... the first shooting scene was awesome....the whole set up and the whole detective story was thrilling and also Tom cruise did a very good job in this jack reacher character ..this movie has a good amount of suspense and that's all i need ...jack reacher needed to be portrayed as an anti-hero ...and this movie did that quite well
A decent movie but hopefully after two of Tom Cruise casting himself as a 6'4 tough guy is enough. I mean how about a Netflix series that casts the show right.
Jack Reacher is a really tall muscular guy in the books. Tom Cruise's ego is pretty big, so in his mind that made him perfect. Tom Cruise as a unstoppable tough guy, who can beat up many people at once. Sorry, I just didn't buy it.
The movie is pretty decent nevertheless.
Great thriller with interesting detective work.
Not the strongest of Tom Cruise movies but still worth your time.
The last battle scene was not the most captivating.
The movie directly gets into the story making you think from the start.
This movie is so badass. CanNOT wait for the sequel. I don't understand the indifference people have for this movie and guess what, I'm not sweatin' it. Cruise is a great Reacher and I am counting the days until October 21st. It's 60. 60 days.
Paco cinema: Sound and image 4.5 / 5. I still love as when I saw her the movies. Action well run
So, yes, wasn't a constant twist and turn with dead ends and 180s. Maybe would have made it even more captivating but come on, this movie is awesome as is. You just kinda watch and see it unfold. Loved it.
Excellent movie that needs to be the first in several.
zbyt prosta historia
Seemed a bit overly dramitc, but quite good. Some parts quite funny as well.
I hate Tom Cruise, but this was a really good movie!
probably the worst film I've seen this year, cruise is rapidly heading towards my ones to avoid list.
the movie is fucking smart !!!!!
Good film lots of action sequences
Cool action movie. Bit kitschy though
Good movie but needed more action.
Tom cruise one of da best interestin actor ever!
Bad acting but nice. It's an ok movie.
On the whole, I enjoyed it. When going into the cinema I hadn't heard much about it, no trailers or reviews, I was expecting some plotless Hollywood explosion like The Expendables.
My low expectations were unfounded. There were gripping moments, there were thoughtful and poignant moments, it struck a chord with present issues, and was fairly rounded plot-wise. However, I did feel it left a few holes, or, paths left untouched, which I go into further in the spoiler shout (clearly they're spoilers).
Review by DeletedBlockedParent2013-05-13T19:06:41Z
This is by all means a lame movie.
When a movie is named after its protagonist, you'd expect the character to be well formed. Jack Reacher wasn't. As an ex-army-cop anti-hero that doesn't play by the rules, Tom Cruise's character was a tame sheep who exerted his dominance using his mouth more than his fists. "You don't want to mess with me" was his catchphrase, but in a post-1980's-world, he certainly did not look more threatening than a teenager with mood problems. Cruise's performance did the character no service either, demonstrating a single stern line of emotion that felt copy and pasted for the film's duration.
The plot ran through tropes and was predictable in its twists (i.e. if you manage to stay one step ahead of the game, you'll be predicting the whole story dead-on). The camera emphasis on prop guns (and its PG-13 rating) suggests that this movie was geared towards a certain prepubescent demographic, and the complexity of the dialogue reflected such. Dollhouses have more personality than the cast and opting to have no soundtrack made the film dryer than a bad turkey sandwich.
While there's no serious complaint about the quality (yeah, it could've been worse), but there's really no positives that can be seen. 5.0/10