Film

The Bourne Ultimatum

Paul Cook 11/09/2007

Rating: 4.5/5

Revelatory and riveting, hurtling along at breakneck speed, the final instalment of the Bourne saga throws you into Paul Greengrass' fast-paced, espionage world one last time. Thematically 'Ultimatum' sticks firmly with it's 'Bourne-on-the-run' aesthetic, however this time around we find Matt Damon's confused amnesiac spy running in the direction of his rivals rather than away. Producing some quite stunning action sequences and knife-edge stunts, this flip-side to Bourne's quest re-invigorates the trilogy for its one last fight for truth.

As beautiful to look at as fine art and as exhilarating as a theme park ride, 'Ultimatum' is the perfect mix of cinematic finesse and pure entertainment dynamite. Jason Bourne is a new breed of hero, one who has no smart-ass lines and no real super-human ability to escape injury. Instead, Bourne is a "relatable and empathetic average Joe" caught up in a world of underhandedness and dirty government dealings. 'Ultimatum' cleverly overlaps 'Supremacy' delicately unearthing the truth and filling in the gaps as the story progresses.

'Ultimatum' possessed nearly all the essential ingredients of a classic spy-thriller; stunts, explosions, fights, twisting plot line, great acting with dominant screen presence from Damon and fantastically shot with the trademark Greengrass handheld style. You feel there with Bourne, in the moment, and wholly enthralled by it all.

There's very little to find fault with here, 'Ultimatum' is everything a Bourne fan could want from a finale to the trilogy. Despite somewhat of an anti-climax at the end, the fact that it's so unpredictable makes it all the more satisfying. A must see for anyone with any interest in cinema and deserving of the comparison of being the new, more up-to-date Bond, 'The Bourne Ultimatum' is truly unmissable.