Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (6/17/2014)

Rated PG-13 for sequences of violence and intense action, and brief strong language.

Starring Chris Pine, Kevin Costner, Keira Knightley and Kenneth Branagh

Directed by Kenneth Branagh (Thor)

Jack Ryan is back and better than ever.

Based on the character created by bestselling author Tom Clancy, Jack Ryan is a global action thriller set in the present day. The story follows him from 9/11, through his tour of duty in Afghanistan, which scarred him forever, and into his early days in the Financial Intelligence Unit of the modern CIA where he becomes an analyst, under the guardianship of his handler, Harper (Kevin Costner). When Ryan believes he’s uncovered a Russian plot to collapse the United States’ economy, he goes from being an analyst to becoming a spy and must fight to save his own life and those of countless others, while also trying to protect the thing that’s more important to him than anything, his relationship with his fiancée Cathy (Keira Knightley).

Let’s jump right in with the cast. I’m a huge fan of Chris Pine and he is fantastic as Jack Ryan. He’s believable as a financial wizard and his action sequences were intense. He also has great chemistry with Keira Knightley, who brings her own skills to the table. It was so good seeing Kevin Costner back on screen in a substantial role again. He’s just so good as the secretive mentor/supervisor. And then there’s Kenneth Branagh as the villain and Viktor Cherevin is riveting.

There was never a question about the story, I knew it was going to be great and it was. From beginning to end it kept me guessing and engaged. Sometimes spy movies try too hard to be smart and lose the audience. This one is smart, but manages to keep the audience tracking the whole time.

One of the reasons the audience stays connected is the intense action. From car chases to gun fights, Jack Ryan has it all and a lot of it.

With plenty of action, an all-star cast and a complete Tom Clancy story, Jack Ryan is one entertaining film and I think “Worth Buying.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no nudity or sex, although we do see a couple in bed together.

The movie is filled with action sequences, many of which are bloody and intense.

The F-word is used twice and there are several other profanities.

CONVERSATION STARTER

1. What are some of the adversities Jack Ryan has to overcome?


2. What are some adversities you’re facing?


3. Read Romans 8:28
   
   And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
   
   
4. How did the helicopter being shut down work for Jack’s good?


5. When was the last time you experienced a difficult time only to see God use it for something good?


6. How can you use that story to encourage someone this week?