Movie review: The Bourne Legacy (+trailer)

What were they thinking - a Bourne movie without Jason Bourne?

Whatever their intention, they haven't let anybody down in creating another gripping adventure.

Tony Gilroy, the writer behind the original three Bourne adventures, takes the directorial reins for this movie, which stands on its own without the presence of the "main" man.

Aaron Cross (The Hurt Locker's Jeremy Renner) is part of Operation Outcome, which sees him transformed into the supreme operative with outstanding physical skills and intellect.

When Bourne's actions lead to too many questions being asked, the programme is closed down and a decision is made to eliminate all involved in the project.

Agents around the globe have their pills changed mysteriously and die within hours.

Cross, on a training assignment in Alaska, checks in with another operative in a remote location.

When a missile destroys the cabin and his colleague, he knows he faces a real threat to his existence.

With his pill supply dwindling fast, Cross goes looking for one of the scientists involved in the project who can top up his supply.

Dr Marta Shearing (Rachel Weisz) was a familiar face to Cross as the woman who regularly took his bloodwork. Surely she could help him.

But Dr Shearing is also facing the threat of execution from her masters. She needs his help, he needs hers.

With a factory in Manila offering Cross' best hope for a permanent solution to his enhanced state, the pair must fight off a ruthless killer and the best the CIA can throw at them.

Whether you're a Bourne fan or not, there's plenty here to keep you entertained.

The Bourne Legacy

(M) 140 minutes

Rating: 3.5/5 stars