Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One Review - 7 Ups & 3 Downs

Ups...

7. The Ludicrously Entertaining Set-Pieces

If you're willing to accept that most of Dead Reckoning Part One's set-pieces don't live up to the most electrifying action in the franchise, it's still leaps and bounds ahead of most blockbusters out there.

Yes, it's a shame that the marketing has spoiled the particulars of almost every notable action beat throughout the movie, but the two standout sequences - a delirious vehicular chase in Rome and the much-hyped train showdown - are among the year's most entertaining.

If a little of the "wow" factor feels lacking compared to Fallout especially, the technical wizardry of the breakneck action is nevertheless palpable at all times, which combined with Cruise's commitment to doing as much practically as humanly possible lends the film a welcome tactile quality.

Don't go in expecting Fallout's astonishing climax to be topped and you'll likely find plenty to savour.