Time: 118 Minutes
Age Rating: M – Violence
Cast:
Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher
Cobie Smulders as Major Susan Turner
Director: Edward Zwick

While I know that the first Jack Reacher had something of a mixed reception, the sequel was liked probably even less, which is probably why I put off watching it for some time. Still, as someone who liked the first movie, I decided to watch it, and I enjoyed it a lot more than I was expecting to. 

Whereas the first Jack Reacher was largely committed to being a mystery crime thriller, Never Go Back is closer to being a full-on action movie. Unfortunately, the plot is a very generic action movie plot and was predictable and a little unfocussed. However, it was entertaining enough for its runtime. 

Tom Cruise reprises his role as Jack Reacher and is again solid in the part. He does feel a bit different from his last appearance, a bit more likable and human. At the same time, it definitely feels like his character’s harder edges have been shaved off here. Still, Cruise delivers as usual, especially with the action and stunts. Cobie Smulders is also good as co-lead, she holds her own against Cruise and they share good chemistry together. There’s not much to say about the supporting cast except that the villains aren’t nearly as good as the last movie’s antagonists. 

Edward Zwick’s direction is solid as usual, but you do feel that it was a step down from Christopher McQuarrie’s direction from the first movie. Still, the action is well shot and choreographed and is entertaining. 

Jack Reacher: Never Go Back is a step down from the first movie and is a generic action thriller, with a basic and cliched plot. However, it is entertaining, with some solid performances and decent action scenes.