The Bourne Ultimatum, the 3rd but possibly not the last, Bourne film, picks up the story of amnesiac psycho Jason Bourne, right where the Bourne Supremacy left off. This time it’s Paul Greengrass directing, bringing a fresh and off the cuff style that instantly imparts an immediacy to the film’s proceedings.
Bourne’s on the run and still trying to find out who he is and why he’s there in the first place. It sure sounds like, same old, same old, but it’s testament to the strength of the narrative that by the 3rd outing of Jason Bourne, we even care in the first place. Not that we’re given much time to ponder such trivial matters, when there’s double crossing CIA operatives, shadowy government agencies, highly trained assassins and tons of mentions of “black bag” goings on.
With most people seemingly wanting Bourne dead, it’s Guardian reporter, Simon Ross (Paddy Considine) that comes closest to tracking him down. In fact it’s Simon’s probing article that finally lures Jason out of hiding as he rendezvous with the roving reporter in a breathtaking display of espionage set in Waterloo station. It’s here also, that we get a taste of Jason Bourne’s real capabilities, as he manages to off baddies left – right and centre using a blistering array of close combat techniques. If this film doesn’t make young boys beat each up on the way home from the cinema, then I weep for the future.
From here on it’s world travel and set pieces that put even the new Bond to shame. Stand outs are the ever present car chase and a roof top game of cat and mouse that ends with possibly one of the most brutal hand to hand fights ever captured on film. If ever there was a moment to define the difference between Bond and Bourne, it’s at the end of this scene, where a bloodied Bourne stands over the body of his beaten foe. No smart throw away remark here, just a grim determination and possibly even a look of regret.
If there is a fault with The Bourne Ultimatum it’s that for all it’s moves and slick acting, there’s very little real plot there. Yes, here’s a super spy. Yes, he can kick some arse and yes, he can’t remember anything, but when it’s all over do we really care?