A couple of caveats if you’re considering seeing The Bourne Ultimatum:
- This is another one of this summer’s many “threequels” (I read that very useful term somewhere, but can’t place the source). If you haven’t seen the preceding two movies, you’ll probably be very confused – and since this one does take some time to sort out early on, it’s advisable to know the backstory.
- If you can, watch the second film, The Bourne Supremacy, on DVD shortly before seeing the new one. We did that on Saturday evening, and saw Ultimatum on Sunday morning. The two are very closely linked, and it will add to your viewing experience if you see them close together.
With that out of the way, and trying not to reveal too much, The Bourne Ultimatum is a great wrap to the series. Jason Bourne’s search to uncover his real identity and how he became who he is now finally yields some answers. Along the way, though, there are new questions and conspiracies revealed. It’s a thrill ride that also engages your brain and your sympathies. The action and chase sequences – always strong in this series (The Bourne Identity was where I first fell in love with the Mini Cooper) – are fantastic, whether on wheels or on foot. I was intrigued by how much younger Matt Damon looked in the flashback sequences (filters and makeup, I guess, but very effective). The action and the editing are so fast-moving that I was actually tired, but also a bit exhilarated, when the movie was over.
