Movie Review: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning

Tom Cruise returns in what may be the most exhilarating—and perhaps most emotional—entry in the Mission: Impossible saga with The Final Reckoning. Clocking in at a bold three hours, this epic finale isn’t just a send-off; it’s a cinematic event that fuses adrenaline-pumping action with a chillingly relevant story, all wrapped up in the franchise’s signature high-octane style.

At the heart of the movie is a hauntingly timely premise: Ethan Hunt’s ultimate mission pits him against a powerful artificial intelligence known only as The Entity. In an era increasingly shaped by AI, the stakes feel uncomfortably real. The fear isn’t just in the explosions or the car chases—it’s in the idea that a faceless, emotionless intelligence could one day outmaneuver humanity itself. This adds a layer of urgency and modern dread to the usual spy-thriller fare.

Despite its extended runtime, The Final Reckoning wastes no time. Each minute is packed with thrilling sequences that are both visually stunning and narratively gripping. From breathtaking underwater operations to jaw-dropping aerial stunts, the film demands your full attention—blink, and you might miss something monumental. Tom Cruise, once again performing many of his own stunts, defies gravity and logic in scenes that are almost too intense to believe.

One of the film’s most rewarding elements is how it weaves in flashbacks and references from earlier Mission: Impossible films. These callbacks don’t feel forced or gimmicky—they enrich the story, offering closure and connecting Ethan’s journey in a way that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Longtime fans will appreciate how it ties the narrative threads together into one cohesive, final mission.

But what truly sets The Final Reckoning apart is its emotional weight. Amid the chaos and spectacle, the film makes room for quiet, human moments. Ethan is more than just a super-agent—he’s a man torn by duty, loyalty, and the cost of sacrifice. These scenes of vulnerability balance the relentless pace and give the film a heart that elevates it above typical action blockbusters.

Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning isn’t just a movie—it’s a ride, a reflection, and a fitting finale to one of the most iconic action franchises in cinema. Whether you're in it for the stunts, the suspense, or the emotional depth, this final chapter delivers on every level. Don’t miss it.

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BULLET TRAIN movie review

A film based on the book of Kotaro Isaka, Bullet Train gives a wonderful and energetic ride that takes us into a high-speed tour of emotions as well. You can't make a full stop as Brad Pitt and his co-stars present an explosive movie set in modern day Japan.

Ladybug (Brad Pitt) hopes to make a peaceful ride inside the bullet train but accidentally gets on collision with determined assassins with connected and conflicting objectives.

The most similar movie I can think of Bullet Train is Kill Bill by Quentin Tarantino. It doesn't hold back on showing the slices, gunshots and blood that almost get out of the screen. But David Leitch assures you that there'll be more. What I love about the movie is that it's injected with dark humor and unexpected twists that you will be hooked from start to finish. Glad that Brad Pitt, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Joey King, Brian Tyree-Henry and more pulled of jokes and sinister banters that earns them love and compassion from the audience, at least for me. While I knew that Brad leads the movie, the other characters are lovable to hate.

Colors are so neon almost hypnotizing you to like the movie more aside from giving authentic Japanese vibes. Hot pink, lemon yellow and all you can associate a real Tokyo visual would probably present. Kudos to the production designer for doing a great job.

Bullet Train offers more surprises while it gives great action. There are also cameos that you wouldn't expect to be included which added to the flair that makes it unforgettable. You can't afford a blink of an eye when it's released in theaters August 10, 2022.

Photos from Columbia Pictures PH

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MORTAL KOMBAT Movie Review

If you're looking for a gore and bloody action, then Mortal Kombat is the movie that's right for you, especially if you're a fan of the video game, I guess.

Mortal Kombat basically was about protecting the earth against the occupation of the Outerworld champions led by Kabal and his monster force. On earth, MMA fighter Cole Young finds himself in his destiny to fight against Kabal, Bi-han / Subzero, Mileena and Kano. It is a fight to supremacy and peace in the universe with Lord Raiden and new found colleagues Sonya Blade, Jax, Liu Kang, and Kung Lao. 

Any movie like this is still better seen on the big screen. With its good sound, sets, costumes and special effects, some might less appreciate it in the home set up. The fight scenes are just in the normal human speed and not very martial-artsy which I think makes it more mortal. The lines are not cheesy, and there is also a hint of light humor but forgivable.

Mortal Kombat is now available via video on demand in HBO Max and in theaters where available.

 

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