I don't know why it took so long for me to watch this, but I'm glad I did. It's a pretty enjoyable thriller. Looking forward to seeing the rest of the movies, by now it's like 4 or 5 of them, ha ha

i don't really understand why this film is so popular - it's not bad and the fight scenes are enjoyable, but i don't think the plot really goes anywhere. it's quite obvious that bourne is some sort of spy/assassin from early on and there's not much development from there. none of the other characters are interesting in any way including the woman and their relationship with each other, the climax is hardly climactic, no comic relief throughout the whole movie, don't feel that it had any sort of message, etc etc.

With Paul Greengrass’ filmmaking style so heavily linked to the franchise, its interesting to watch the initial entry that he had no involvement in and note that many of the hallmarks of the series were already put in place by Liman. It’s also clear how influential the film became as a result, with the resulting sequels more of a refinement to the original. The camerawork, whilst less frenetic, is still aiming to ground the action and each of the fight sequences are notable for emphasising the brutality and speed that the central character is capable of. Damon makes for a likeable protagonist and the filmmakers tread a careful line of making the central character’s dilemma and confusion relatable and sympathetic, yet at the same time reminding the audience of how dangerous he can be. The European setting equally helps to give the film a look that has since been replicated in every action film of note from Bond to Taken. It is a solid start to the franchise, though the film spends little time of consequence dealing with the ramifications of Bourne’s discovery and Potente’s does what little she can with Marie, a largely thankless role that seems to exist solely to give Bourne something to protect throughout.

This is a great spy thriller that feels straight out of the cold war, despite not having anything to do with that really. I love how realistic it feels despite having pretty crazy, over the top stuff going on. When I was younger and saw this, I was totally grossed out/bothered by that dude pulling the pen out of his hand. It makes me cringe for some reason. Clive Owen's character is also really fun to watch. He's so calm, but precise and honest. All in all, just a really good action film with an interesting plot you slowly understand.

The Bourne Identity is a smart and efficient action thriller that takes its premise seriously. Rather than becoming just a collection of action scenes, the film builds around a genuine mystery and gives the audience a reason to care about its protagonist. The action is tense, the pacing is sharp, and Matt Damon is an excellent fit for the role. Its grounded storytelling elevates it above being just another action movie.