Only one team can save the world when a new unexplainable threat reveals itself. Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) is still living in secret, but he soon receives his latest mission via an analogue recording. However, this time, the mission is different. The threat that Ethan and the IMF must stop is unlike anything he has ever experienced before- it’s more significant, more extensive and a whole lot smarter. The threat is always one step ahead of Ethan, and those he cares for the most are now in grave danger.
On top of this, an element of Ethan’s past has resurfaced, and he is forced to look back at a time long before he joined the IMF. We soon learn that Ethan’s past contains an aspect of tragedy and an old enemy who has now resurfaced. Ethan assembles the team of the only people he can trust to, once again, tackle a mission that seems impossible.
Entering what is now the seventh film in the series, I’m proud to say the film builds on previous instalments and injects a new level into the storyline, character development, and, most importantly, action. At various points, Ethan is tested while carrying a thirst for revenge and a determination to save the world while protecting his fellow team members.
The action sequences here are downright epic and wild. Action scenes involving cars, motorbikes and trains will have audiences in awe at the level of stunts and on-screen entertainment. Continuing longer than expected and then in previous films, the action scenes are easily the film’s biggest highlights. Each action sequence brings an aspect of unpredictability, comedy, and amazement.
As for the plot, the storyline and the threat are different and highly enjoyable. New characters who are pleasant and blend in with our leading heroes wonderfully are introduced. In fact, they fit so well that it feels as though they have been part of the team the entire time, particularly actress Hayley Atwell as Grace, whom I found elevated the film significantly. Director Christopher McQuarrie, again, is praised for his work here, and the visuals are tremendous.
[mailerlite_form form_id=1]So, what is holding this film back from being perfect for me? I can’t deny that some aspects of the plot surrounding the villains and high-end technology had moments that felt either complex or vague. Elements surrounding Ethan’s past is another area that felt exciting, but at the same time, information was held back. After all, this is only Part One of the story, with Part Two coming in due time. I can only hope a sequel will provide more conclusions later.
Overall, as a seventh instalment, Mission: Impossible- Dead Reckoning Part One provides another worthy instalment heightened by action, comedy, characters, and an exciting and unexpected storyline. The action, once again like the past films, filled me with amazement. The leading performance from Tom Cruise as Ethan is excellent and enjoyable, and the new characters who enter this story are well cast and highly likeable. While the storyline itself is new and exciting, and the lengthy runtime isn’t noticeable, I can’t deny that some moments could have been more straightforward, particularly relating to the deadly threat and areas of technology. No matter, it’s still a joyous film in every way possible.
9.1/10
6th July 2023
Written by Peter Walkden
WALKDEN ENTERTAINMENT
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