Jack Reacher

Jack Reacher is the film that proved Christopher McQuarrie could direct action before he took over the Mission: Impossible franchise, and Tom Cruise’s compact intensity makes Reacher a compelling screen presence despite being a foot shorter than the character in Lee Child’s novels. The car chase through Pittsburgh — no music, no CGI, just Cruise driving a Chevelle at dangerous speeds — is one of the most realistic chase sequences in modern action. Werner Herzog’s casting as the villain is inspired: his dead-eyed menace requires no acting. McQuarrie’s screenplay is sharp and procedural, and the investigation scenes are as engaging as the action.