Patriot Games

The Next Reel Film Podcast

“You walk into a bar, half of whose customers want you dead. You walk up to the IRA's bagman, and in front of his guys, you threaten him? You're not a field man, Jack. You never were. You are an analyst. Analyze that.”
The Second Chapter in Jack Ryan's Journey

After the success of The Hunt for Red October, Paramount Pictures faced challenges bringing the next Jack Ryan story to the screen. The situation with Alec Baldwin's departure proved contentious, with Baldwin claiming Paramount "cut his throat" by negotiating with another actor (presumably Ford) while still in talks with him. The studio allegedly used Baldwin's Broadway commitment to A Streetcar Named Desire and script approval demands as leverage to make the switch. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue the Jack Ryan series with a conversation about Phillip Noyce’s 1992 film Patriot Games.

Playing Both Sides of the Game

The transition from Baldwin to Ford fundamentally changes the character's dynamics, shifting from a younger analyst to a more seasoned veteran. We explore how this affected the film's tone and action sequences, particularly discussing whether some of the more intense scenes feel appropriate for Ryan's character. The film presents an intriguing mirror story between Ryan and Sean Miller - both men driven by family, albeit in opposing directions. While Ryan fights to protect his family, Miller seeks revenge for his brother's death, creating parallel narratives that drive the story's conflict.

Elements That Drive the Action

• The controversial casting change and its implications for the franchise
• The mirrored narratives of family protection versus family revenge
• Sean Bean's memorable performance as vengeful terrorist Sean Miller
• The innovative satellite attack sequence that showcases '90s military technology
• Debate over the film's balance between analysis and action
• The political dynamics of presenting IRA terrorism to American audiences
• Discussion of whether the finale's boat chase sequence serves the story effectively

Patriot Games successfully continues the Jack Ryan franchise while charting its own course, though some creative choices push the character in new directions that don't always align with his analytical roots. The film proves entertaining even as it diverges from the more cerebral approach of its predecessor. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!

Film Sundries

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