"Ronin" is an aberration among more modern films of its genre: an action film that is actually intelligent and subtle in spite of its gripping action sequences.
It is also that rare case where perceived holes in a film's story line may actually be an asset. We are not given all the information we may want, but in the end that is not only irrelevant, but an aspect that actually adds to "Ronin's" appeal. The minimalist treatment of the details ramps up the intrigue and the feeling that we are witnessing the interaction of dangerous people and events from a world which is hard for the rest of us to understand. What's exactly in the brief case, exactly who the characters are and where they came from is not as vital as just enjoying the ride. That not only includes an extremely talented international acting ensemble, an intelligent script and mesmerizing location settings, but perhaps the greatest car chases in screen history (at least in my opinion).
This was one of John Frankenheimer's last films and you can really see the intelligent decision making that went into each shot. A real bonus if you have the DVD is listening to the late director's commentary which gives you an even greater appreciation of that.
Featuring a perfect supporting music score by Elia Cmiral, I even enjoy the ending that folks who even supported the film criticize. There's something stirring about the music combined with Jean Reno's voice-over...although I do acknowledge one shouldn't think about it too much!
It is also that rare case where perceived holes in a film's story line may actually be an asset. We are not given all the information we may want, but in the end that is not only irrelevant, but an aspect that actually adds to "Ronin's" appeal. The minimalist treatment of the details ramps up the intrigue and the feeling that we are witnessing the interaction of dangerous people and events from a world which is hard for the rest of us to understand. What's exactly in the brief case, exactly who the characters are and where they came from is not as vital as just enjoying the ride. That not only includes an extremely talented international acting ensemble, an intelligent script and mesmerizing location settings, but perhaps the greatest car chases in screen history (at least in my opinion).
This was one of John Frankenheimer's last films and you can really see the intelligent decision making that went into each shot. A real bonus if you have the DVD is listening to the late director's commentary which gives you an even greater appreciation of that.
Featuring a perfect supporting music score by Elia Cmiral, I even enjoy the ending that folks who even supported the film criticize. There's something stirring about the music combined with Jean Reno's voice-over...although I do acknowledge one shouldn't think about it too much!