M:I — Marathon 6/6
This movie is incredibly well executed and packed with so much action and suspense you fall out of your seat. Narratively, this is the pinnacle of absurd stories but it doesn't really matter in the end.
Sean Harris's Solomon Lane brings out that danger I found missing in the previous entry despite being tied down for most of the runtime.
M:I — Marathon 5/6
This movie is entertaining but overall a little dull. Despite the MI4 blueprint and increased stakes, it's main issue is the villain's shallow motivations and lack of development. The previous entry in the franchise had a similar objective but a much more enticing motivation despite his minimal development.
A peculiar motif in this movie is it's insistence that Ethan might but crazy and it just feels weird instead of worrisome. As if this franchise would turn it's lead protagonist into an antagonist.
Sean Harris's Solomon Lane is a foreboding character but lacks any actual danger.
M:I — Marathon 4/6
This movie is the blueprint of all future entries in the franchise. It redefines what a modern day action movie should be.
This movie has an impressive scale, engaging stakes, and plenty of fun little moments. My personal favorite is the repeated application of Murphy's Law to riveting effect.
I particularly enjoy Jeremy Renner's William Brandt calling out the preposterous plans and twists in the story.
Michael Nyquist's Kurt Hendricks is a formidable force of nature.
M:I — Marathon 3/6
It's a decent action movie and a solid entry in the franchise. I like the TV series feeling I get from it; I especially love it's establishment of what a modern day action movie should be.
Philip Seymour Hoffman's Owen Davian is the best villain of the franchise; intimidating.
J.J. and crew always have exciting and inspiring ideas but always lack a proper sense of narrative to connect it all into a coherent and meaningful story. They manage to cleverly piece everything together into an entertaining package but it always falls apart upon a second look.
