HOLLYWOOD—The last few months of the year haven’t produced many stellar action flicks for audiences, but all is about to change with the release of “Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol.” The fourth installment in the franchise is the best yet. Tom Cruise returns as IMF agent Ethan Hunt who finds himself immersed in a scandal that could destroy not only him, but his team as well. Joining Hunt on this stellar mission are William Brandt (Jeremy Renner), Benji Dunn (Simon Pegg) and Paula Patton (Jane Carter). 

The movie follows Hunt and his team as they fight to clear their names after a bomb destroys the Kremlin, setting a stage for a nuclear war between the U.S. and Russia. What works so well for this installment of the franchise is its clever premise. The movie is reminiscent of a spy thriller.  There are tons of secrets and twists throughout the movie to keep audiences glued to their seats for the entire two hours. Cruise is superb in the role that made him an action star.

The stunts are incredible; anyone who has seen the trailer for the movie could not miss that incredible sequence with Hunt dodging an exploding car. Director Brad Bird captures vivid imagery with precision that will wow any spectator in the theater seat. Just looking at the scenery from Dubai is mesmerizing; it captures the beauty and spectacular architecture of the city. There are plenty of jaw-dropping action sequences and gunfire for an avid action fan. 

The entire cast is great, but two characters likely to connect with audiences are Brandt and Carter. Renner exudes a charisma, and mystery to Brandt that will make audiences question his allegiance. Is he a good guy or perhaps a double agent? Not to mention the fact that he engages in some fantastic fight scenes. Carter as the lone woman in Mr. Hunt’s team, maintains that confidence and authority to carry out the mission even though she is surrounded by testosterone. Anyone looking for a girl fight will thoroughly enjoy the battle between Carter and Sabine Moreau (Léa Seydoux). There are also a few surprise cameos in the movie that audiences will like.

“ Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol” is a stunning action flick that men, women and children will enjoy. It’s the perfect Christmas present for any movie enthusiast looking to de-stress from the impending holidays with a movie that exudes magnificent action, smart storytelling and memorable characters. Run to see this movie - it’s that good!

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