Patriot Games

Starring: Harrison Ford, Anne Archer, Patrick Bergin, Sean Bean, Thora Birch, James Fox, James Earl Jones, Richard Harris, Samuel L. Jackson
Directed by: Phillip Noyce
Rating: R
Genre: Thriller, Political
1992

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: CIA analyst Jack Ryan (Harrison Ford) stops an IRA terrorist attack while he vacationing with his family in England. He returns home, but the terrorists are now targeting him and his family and he must stop them before they kill again.

Review:

Tim: Wow, this film is intense. I know it is a political thriller, but I wasn't prepared for how suspenseful it would be. Although it's a cliche, I was truly on the edge of my seat.

This is a fascinating story where Jack Ryan gets on the wrong side of an ultra-violent faction of the IRA and then what he must go through to protect his family. The political side is incredibly interesting, especially as we see Ryan's analysis of information when he's working for the CIA. The real life glimpses are what make the Jack Ryan movies so good.

Harrison Ford is outstanding as Jack Ryan. He is everything you could hope for in the character. Ford convincingly portrays his just right- he is not a field agent, but he is intelligent and when he gets himself in dangerous situations, he always manages to fight his way out.

James Earl Jones gives a good supporting performance. Sean Bean is excellent as the bad guy. He is so good in these roles. Richard Harris also does a great job.

I am a big fan of political thrillers and this film ranks up there with the most thrilling. Jack Ryan is such a great character and an actor like Ford knows how to play him just right. While this may not be the best Jack Ryan movie, it still ranks near the top and provides an entertaining and intelligent time.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Hunt for Red October, Clear and Present Danger, The Sum of All Fears