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Jan Wahl Movie Review: 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit'

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl reviews "Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit," the latest action-thriller installment of the titular character (Chris Pine) from author Tom Clancy.

KCBS Entertainment Reporter Jan Wahl:

Jan Wahl Movie Reviews: Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

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Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit - Official Trailer by Paramount Pictures on YouTube

JACK RYAN: SHADOW RECRUIT
(PG-13) 105 min

Based on Tom Clancy's best sellers, a young Jack Ryan is once again in the center of the action, from Afghanistan to New York City to Moscow. This bright and courageous young man is recruited by the C.I.A. to spy on the world of financial intelligence and global terrorism. It's always good to see Kenneth Branagh anywhere, and this time the talented writer/director/actor directs with a taut pace and plays the evil villain.

The cast also includes Kevin Costner, underplaying his role with dry humor, and a weak Keira Knightly, who should never have accepted a role that reduces her character into a boring plot device. It has beautiful score along with some wonderful cinematography, taking us on a trip to Manhattan and Moscow.

At 100 minutes it's—thankfully—not too long and Chris Pine will surely be welcomed back as Jack Ryan—he fits the role. The uninspired screenplay doesn't stop this from being an escapist, cinematic ride.

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Movies To See Right Now: Nebraska, The Wolf of Wall Street, American Hustle, Saving Mr. Banks & Philomena

Home Viewing/DVD: Lee Daniels' The Butler, Enough Said, The Spectacular Now & 42

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RELATED:
- 'Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit' Star, Kevin Costner Roots For 49ers
- Q&A w/ Kenneth Branagh of 'Shadow Recruit'

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You can hear KCBS Entertainment Editor Jan Wahl's movie reviews on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM Fridays at 8:53am & 4:53pm.

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