This is an effort to bring back the Jack Ryan story to the screen, following the earlier films starring Alec Baldwin and Harrison Ford, as well as unsuccessful attempts with Ben Affleck and Matt Damon. While John Krasinski’s television series apparently found success—something I haven't experienced myself—this film introduces a spin-off featuring Michael B. Jordan and John Kelly, known as John Clark. Stefano Sollima teams up again with Taylor Sheridan, along with newcomer Will Staples for the writing. I wouldn’t call myself a devoted Jack Ryan fan, although I do recall enjoying those initial movies. Lacking familiarity with the books or the character of John Kelly, my expectations were simple: to see a reasonably entertaining action film. And that's essentially what I received. The movie moves quickly, clocking in under two hours, largely because of the frequent action sequences, which are undoubtedly the most engaging aspect. There’s little downtime between these moments, whether they involve intricate fight choreography or more suspenseful situations, so those seeking constant excitement will likely be pleased. The stunt work deserves recognition; the team responsible for the intense and thrilling action is crucial to this type of film's popularity. However, every movie needs a solid story and well-developed characters, something this one only partially achieves. Despite John Kelly’s tragic background and emotionally resonant motivations, his character development feels predictable and familiar within the genre. The plot itself is essentially a straightforward revenge tale with a superficial exploration of social and political issues that are obvious from early on. Michael B. Jordan delivers a powerful performance, both physically and emotionally, carrying the film forward. He portrays his character’s complicated feelings—anger, grief, sadness—in a way that keeps viewers invested. Unfortunately, the performances of the supporting actors don't measure up to Jordan's, making them largely forgettable. Jamie Bell and Jodie Turner-Smith, for example, deliver uninspired portrayals, with their characters’ scripts filled with exposition or unnecessary dialogue. It feels like another attempt to revive an action franchise, and in today’s landscape—dominated by franchises like Mission: Impossible, John Wick, Fast & Furious, and the superhero universes—it risks being perceived as just another generic entry rather than a serious contender. I want to give credit to Philippe Rousselot's cinematography and Matthew Newman’s editing, which contribute to some impressive scenes. Ultimately, that’s what matters most to many viewers. Without Remorse presents a compelling protagonist on a revenge quest through action sequences driven by familiar genre tropes. Michael B. Jordan shines, delivering a captivating performance that helps Stefano Sollima's film overcome its predictable screenplay. Taylor Sheridan and Will Staples focus their efforts on crafting an interesting hero, but neglect to apply the same care to the narrative and supporting characters. Overall, it’s a fast-paced action movie that should satisfy those looking for something to watch. The exceptional stunt work is worth noting. However, if you're hoping for a more original take on the Jack Ryan world, perhaps the sequel will fare better. Rating: B-

Source on TMDB