The world of cinema is a fascinating realm where stories and characters can rise and fall, and the Mission: Impossible franchise is a prime example of this dynamic. Today, we delve into the often-overlooked third installment, Mission: Impossible III, and explore its unique place in the series' history.
A Tale of Two Extremes
Mission: Impossible III, celebrating its 20th anniversary, is a film that has divided audiences and critics alike. Some view it as the franchise's savior, while others see it as a step towards its demise. How can a single movie carry such contrasting reputations?
Personally, I find this dichotomy intriguing. It's a testament to the film's impact and its ability to leave a lasting impression, whether positive or negative. From my perspective, this movie represents a pivotal moment in the franchise's evolution, a turning point that set the tone for future installments.
The Road to III
The journey to the third movie was not without its challenges. Initially, David Fincher was attached, but creative differences led to his departure, a common theme in this franchise's pre-production history. Joe Carnahan took over, but he too faced those pesky differences, leaving the project in a state of flux.
It was then that J.J. Abrams, the creator of the TV series Alias, entered the picture. Cruise, a fan of Alias, offered Abrams the director's chair, and thus began a new chapter in the franchise's story.
What many people don't realize is that Abrams' involvement was a bold move. He was a TV guy, stepping into the world of blockbuster films, a world dominated by established directors like Brian De Palma and John Woo. Yet, Abrams brought his unique style and vision, a blend of immediate crowd-pleasing and a focus on ensemble casting, which would become his signature.
A New Direction
Mission: Impossible III marked a departure from the previous films. It reintroduced the concept of the Impossible Missions Force team, a skeleton crew in the second film, now a full-fledged unit. This shift was a relief for fans and critics alike, who appreciated the return to the franchise's roots.
One thing that immediately stands out is the introduction of Simon Pegg's character, Benji. Pegg became a staple of the franchise, alongside Luther (Ving Rhames), and their dynamic added a new layer to the team dynamics. The rest of the MI3 team, while one-time appearances, showcased Abrams' talent for ensemble casting, particularly Maggie Q, who many felt deserved a return.
The film also presented the most memorable villain, Owen Davian, played by the late Philip Seymour Hoffman. Davian's opaque nature and lack of traditional motivation made him a compelling and unpredictable force, a true testament to Hoffman's talent.
The Abrams Style
Abrams' style is a unique blend of rich color, flashy texture, and a preference for momentum over plot details. His approach can be seen as a hedge, allowing for grabby flash-forwards and in-media-res scenes, a technique that hooks audiences and keeps them engaged.
At the time, Abrams was seen as a downgrade from the likes of De Palma and Woo. However, 20 years later, his impact is undeniable. He brought a distinctive style to the franchise, one that would influence future directors, including Christopher McQuarrie.
Legacy and Impact
Mission: Impossible III left its mark on the franchise in more ways than one. It introduced beloved characters, showcased impressive action sequences (including the Vatican break-in and the Shanghai skyscraper scene), and established a trend of elevating Tom Cruise's character, Ethan Hunt, to messianic proportions.
The film's legacy is further solidified by its connection to the final Mission movie, where the Rabbit's Foot, a MacGuffin from MI3, is revealed to be an early version of the Entity, the evil AI from the later films. This continuity, while appreciated by some, also highlights the franchise's strength in its diversity of directors, approaches, and styles.
In conclusion, Mission: Impossible III is a film that deserves a second look. It may not be perfect, but its impact and influence on the franchise are undeniable. As we reflect on its 20th anniversary, it's a reminder that sometimes, the movies that divide us are the ones that leave the most lasting impressions.
