The Bourne Identity

reviewed by Dave

On the surface, The Bourne Identity seems to be just another spy-themed action movie - there are guns, fisticuffs, chases, and little bits of a love story.

But that's just the surface. The Bourne Identity plays to the formula, but on its own terms, and it's all the twists and turns that make this one of the best action movies I've seen in a very long time.

Matt Damon plays Jason Bourne, an amnesiac that struggles to remember whom he is. I read the book many years back, and I always pictured someone about 15 years older than Damon, but after just a few minutes I was convinced he is the perfect guy for the role.

Equally impressive is Franka Potente as Marie, a woman in the wrong place at the wrong time who hooks up with Bourne (and later errr… hooks up with Bourne) and becomes roped into his world. There are a lot of action movies that have attractive, bad actresses in the female lead, but Potente actually can act, further elevating The Bourne Identity above the formula.

In addition to the fine performances by the leads, we're also treated to a compelling story that's effectively told. Director Doug Liman (Swingers) brings a certain edginess to the proceedings, drawing from his indie film past. In the special features on the DVD we learn that Liman actually likes to shoot the film himself, and he certainly has a great eye. Action scenes are convincing and fun to watch, and fun camera angles are sprinkled throughout, bringing to mind some of DePalma's work on Mission: Impossible.

The Bourne Identity is just shy of perfect. Though I've seen worse special effects in Die Another Day, there is a bad CGI effect that comes near the end of the film. It's noticeable enough that it does briefly jar your suspension of disbelief. But then I think back to the brilliant chase scene in a Mini Cooper, and my nitpicking falls by the wayside.

If you're at all a fan of this movie genre, you simply have to see The Bourne Identity. This one goes on my list of 10 Best Action Flicks. Here's hoping we get a sequel with the same cast and director.