The Bourne Identity

2002, Action, 1h 53m

193 Reviews 250,000+ Ratings

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critics consensus

Expertly blending genre formula with bursts of unexpected wit, The Bourne Identity is an action thriller that delivers -- and then some. Read critic reviews

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Movie Info

The story of a man (Matt Damon), salvaged, near death, from the ocean by an Italian fishing boat. When he recuperates, the man suffers from total amnesia, without identity or background... except for a range of extraordinary talents in fighting, linguistic skills and self-defense that speak of a dangerous past. He sets out on a desperate search-assisted by the initially rebellious Marie (Franka Potente) - to discover who he really is, and why he's being lethally pursued by assassins.

Cast & Crew

Critic Reviews for The Bourne Identity

Audience Reviews for The Bourne Identity

  • Aug 23, 2016
    The first Jason Bourne film was the most quintessential action spy thriller at the of the noughties. It's scope, technicality and characterization was unprecedented, what starts off as a mystery of an American discovered at sea with only a few clues to spare eventually turns into the plot of a spy assassin on the run from those who trained him. Matt Damon became the unexpected action hero at the time, able to pull off daring stunts taking out enemies clean and easily, as were his ability to plan strategically through many situaltions, all this making him the truly compelling character from Robert Ludlum's books on one of the most revered action movie franchises of the modern age. This film directed by Doug Liman may be the more genuinely character oriented films the franchise has developed, it's main plot about the character's recent history, motivation, recent relationship with supporting character, as was him discovering his identity is a little small scaled then usual, though the compelling aspect with the character and the CIA operative working behind the scenes became the most concentrated narrative strands than just the inciting incident and the character's backstory subplot. Overall it still holds up today, still a worthy introduction to a unique character and film series.
    Luke E Super Reviewer
  • Jul 26, 2016
    It's hard to believe The Bourne franchise is over 14 years old. With 4 successful films under its belt to this point, and one more on the way, Jason Bourne has become one of Hollywood's most enduring protagonists. Luckily, after so long and many repeated viewings, The Bourne Identity still holds up. Before Paul Greengrass came on board and gave us a few heart stopping thrill rides, Doug Liman directed the first entry in the series. While there are a few dated stylistic choices by Liman, he did a great job kicking off the series. It was released in 2002, but it definitely has a 90's action-thriller vibe from its look and feel. It's also far less cinematic than its successors and in turn makes for a great cable watch (which is probably why I've seen this film north of 10 times). As I understand, the film's budget spiraled after several reshoots and push back's, so John Powell had little to work with in terms of a natural score. I feel like that helped him create a more grounded sound and tone to the series, as he has gone on to score 3 more Bourne films. Powell's score, along with the great end credits Moby tag, make for one good listen. The Bourne Identity doesn't nearly have the scope that the Greengrass films do, but it has a surprisingly amount of awareness for an action film. The entire series is more cerebral than it gets credit for. Accompanying Matt Damon as Bourne himself, is an impressive cast that consists of German star Franka Potente, Chris Cooper, Brian Cox, and Clive Owen. Potente serves a great counter to Damon in that they both play lost souls searching for answers. She also essentially plays the audience, who is going along with Bourne as he ventures deep into his past. Owen, Cooper, and Cox are all great as different levels of C.I.A. agents. Particularly, Clive Owen, who does so much with so little amount of dialogue. I'm of the belief that, besides Legacy, the Bourne films get better as the series goes on. With a charismatic performance from Damon, in a somewhat unlikable role, it's all the more impressive just how successful these films have become. Hopefully that continues moving forward. +Damon's commitment +Supporting cast +Powell's grounded score +Good action, but better characters -Some dated stylistic choices 9.0/10
    Thomas D Super Reviewer
  • May 17, 2016
    Smarter than your average action flick, The Bourne Identity offers a fresh take at the thriller genre, delivering high-paced action and brilliant dialogue. It may feel slow at times, but the pacing pays off big time. Definitely a solid first installment in a franchise.
    Ben B Super Reviewer
  • Dec 06, 2015
    A brilliant mix of great story telling, Great action and suspense, It only spoon feeds us bits about the plot all the way through but it's gripping from start to finish, A great car chase and the film adds some wit which works well, It's Bonds dark and gritty brother.
    Jamie C Super Reviewer

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