Part 7/13:
Despite these flaws, Brett recognizes that the action sequences are jaw-droppingly well-executed and designed for the big screen. The submarine infiltration and aerial fight scenes stand out as highlights, showcasing Cruise’s commitment to authentic stunt work—he’s unafraid to look uncool or grimy when the scene demands it. For instance, Cruise fighting wind and elements on a plane or clenching a flash drive between his teeth during high-stakes moments showcase a raw realism that sets the series apart.
He explains that these moments, while fantastic visually, seem to be built around the action scenes themselves, which creates a pacing mismatch—much of the film’s length feels like padding to support these set pieces rather than narrative drives.