52. Mission: Impossible: Ghost Protocol (2011) — Countdown to The Final Reckoning

We’re back with a new episode of Sound Speed Action as we continue our countdown to Mission Impossible: The Final Reckoning. Up next is what feels like an amazing reset for the series — Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol (2011).This is where the franchise really starts to take off. The quality of action and entertainment jumps several levels in this installment. You get the brilliant work of director Brad Bird (The Iron Giant) as well as the first steps of writer Christopher McQuarrie stepping into the Mission world (be on the lookout for more from him soon…), making this an explosive (if sometimes uneven) hit of a movie!The cast brings a lot of fun: Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt, raising both his action and comedy game. Simon Pegg’s Benji is no longer just the computer guy behind the desk — he’s out in the field as a great agent, delivering some fantastic moments. That includes hilarious scenes alongside Cruise and newcomer Jeremy Renner. On the podcast, we debate whether Renner fully fits the mold of these films — what do you think? Paula Patton as Agent Carter (not that Marvel Agent Carter) kicks ass and is a blast to watch as part of the IMF team. Even the smaller roles are memorable, including Tom Wilkinson as the IMF Secretary, Léa Seydoux as assassin Sabine Moreau, and Ving Rhames (he’s in it for only 39 seconds, but listen for a great bit about what Rhames pulled off in this movie).Of course, the movie has its flaws: a pretty thin villain character (okay, maybe these movies really aren’t about their villains…) and a major tonal shift once the action moves to India.But ultimately, this chapter reignites the series with a much-needed burst of energy, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling new era for the back half of the franchise. Let’s go! We’ll be back soon with more to share — enjoy this one, and let us know your thoughts.Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol is available to stream now on Prime Video and Paramount Plus. It’s also available to rent or buy on all major platforms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sohrabsmovieq.substack.com