Today’s quick review: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. Jack Reacher (Tom Cruise), a nomadic veteran, goes to visit Major Susan Turner (Cobie Smulders), a long-distance friend, only to find her embroiled in a military cover-up. Reacher and Turner must go on the run to find evidence that can clear her name and bring justice to a corrupt contractor. Complicating their flight is Samantha (Danika Yarosh), possibly the teen daughter Reacher never knew he had.
Jack Reacher: Never Go Back is an action thriller based on the series of novels by Lee Child. Never Go Back features a fast-paced plot, a strong protagonist, and a satisfying amount of action. Although a sequel to the first Jack Reacher movie, Never Go Back tells a standalone story that only retains Reacher himself. The result is a tense, competent action movie with an emphasis on story.
Never Go Back shares many of the strengths of the first movie. Tom Cruise remains a compelling action hero in Jack Reacher, a resourceful veteran with a strong presence. The action is crisp, efficient, and exciting, although not groundbreaking. The plot is a step up from the usual action fodder, tracking multiple threads in a complex investigation, and while not a masterpiece of intrigue, it is more than enough to keep the film moving.
The film’s new additions are generally positive. Cobie Smulders makes for a capable ally as Susan Turner, quick enough to keep up with Reacher while getting a few good hits in herself. Danika Yarosh gives the movie a more personal touch as Samantha, a troubled youth who might be Reacher’s daughter. The one major drawback is that all three main characters are brusque and stubborn, leading to argumentative dialogue and an abundance of conflict.
Never Go Back’s fast pacing is a double-edged sword. It reduces the time between action sequences, burns quickly through a fairly elaborate plot, and helps keep the tension high throughout. But these benefits come at a price. The fast pacing, large supporting cast, and elaborate conspiracy plot make Never Go Back a hard movie to follow. Its delivery often feels rushed, and the plot twists come too quickly to have their proper impact.
These flaws will be minor for anyone looking for a popcorn action flick. Never Go Back overshoots the mark a little when it comes to fast pacing and plot complexity, but it remains a solid action movie with a high degree of tension and a better plot than many. Skip it if you prefer your action more humorous or more violent. Action movies in a similar vein include the original Jack Reacher, Shooter, 16 Blocks, The Bourne Identity, and Die Hard.
6.1 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for a strong lead, fine action, and a complex plot, hurt somewhat by its pacing and unbalanced cast.