Mission: Impossible 2 MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +4 Content: -1 1/2

Action director John Woo doesnt disappoint as he takes the helm of this exciting adventure involving the Impossible Mission Force team headed by agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise). Renegade agent Sean Ambrose (Dougray Scott) steals the antidote for a lethal new virus. But the virus itself is locked in the laboratory of a bio-engineering firm. Its up to Hunt and his team to find Ambrose using his old girlfriend, Nyah Hall (Thandie Newton), a skilled thief. Then it becomes a race against time as both Hunt and Ambrose are after the virus. The action is non-stop with unbelievable stunts, incredible chases and spectacular scenery. Cruise fans wont be disappointed and turn-out should be high for this energetic sequel.

One of the popular features of the original TV show was the elaborate masquerades with false faces. The false faces are used several times in the film, fooling not only characters but the audience as well. Another feature of the TV show was the elaborate plot to switch items or fool a despot. Unfortunately, in this film, the elaborate plots give way to elaborate stunts. At times, the viewer feels Hunt should have a double O number. The team concept also gives way to a basic one-man show. What dialogue is used features a number of crude words including the mild British term bloody, several times and two obscenities. A few suggestive comments and a scene of an unmarried couple in bed imply a sexual encounter, but the main focus is the action stunts. Massive shootouts, explosions, brutal, graphic hand fights and vehicle chases exploit violent death and destruction to entertain. Emphasis on gratuitous violence, along with a few strongly suggestive sexual scenes and obscenities make this MISSION: IMPOSSBLE II, morally impossible.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Paramount Pictures, 5555 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038