The Jack Reacher film series arrives on Netflix today, showcasing Tom Cruise’s explosive talent as an action star. The series follows the adventures of Jack Reacher, a former American military police investigator who now travels the country as a drifter. Reacher is a hulking figure with a mysterious past, and he is always willing to help those in need.
In the first film, Jack Reacher, Reacher is in Pittsburgh investigating the murder of a former military police officer. The victim, James Barr, is accused of killing five people in a sniper attack, but Reacher believes that he is innocent. Reacher soon finds himself in over his head, as he is drawn into a web of corruption and conspiracy.
The second film, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, picks up where the first film left off. Reacher is now framed for the crime of murdering a colonel in the U.S. Army, and he must clear his name. Along the way, he teams up with Major Susan Turner, a military police officer who is also being framed for a crime she didn’t commit.
Both films are action-packed thrillers with plenty of suspense and violence. Cruise is well-cast as Reacher, and he brings the character to life with his charisma and physicality. The supporting cast is also strong, with Smulders giving a particularly good performance as Turner.
The films are both well-made and entertaining, but they do have some flaws. The plots are somewhat convoluted, and the action sequences can be a bit over-the-top. However, the films are still enjoyable for fans of action thrillers.
In terms of narrative style, the first film is more straightforward, with a clear-cut plot and a satisfying conclusion. The second film is more complex, with multiple subplots and a more ambiguous ending.
Ultimately, the best film in the series is a matter of personal preference. If you’re looking for a more straightforward action thriller, then you might prefer the first film. If you’re looking for a film with a bit more emotional depth and complexity, then you might prefer the second.
Some additional thoughts on the two films:
- The first film is more faithful to the original book, while the second takes more liberties with the source material.
- The first has a more grounded and realistic tone, while the second is more over-the-top and action-packed.
- The first has a stronger supporting cast, while the second focuses more on the relationship between Reacher and Turner.
Overall, the Jack Reacher movies are well-made and entertaining, and feature Tom Cruise in a role that he was born to play.