Nerds That Geek Movie Review: 'Patriot Games'

Written by Scott Edwards

There are times when people are put into situations where they just choose to watch or walk away. But there are some people that can step up and if there is something happening that is not right, they will make sure to make it right. Although this action is not for everyone, there is no shame in looking for someone else to help out in these situations. If someone is being unjustly hurt for any reason, it is good to know that most people are willing to lend a hand, or at least get someone to intervene. 

While working in the United Kingdom, Jack Ryan and his family are also trying to take in the sights. Even though Ryan has left the C.I.A., he still has a little bit left in the tank of his old self. While walking to meet up with his wife and daughter, Ryan sees a plot unfolding in front of him and even though it is not his job, he steps in. Being able to unarm one of the masked attackers, Ryan subdues all three that are trying to assassinate a member of the royal family. When killing one of the masked men, Ryan feels sorry for his actions, but knows it was the right thing to do at the time.

Being tried in London, Ryan is accused by the opposition for killing an innocent bystander, but that is not what one man is focused on, as Sean Miller is eyeing the old analyst with revenge in his eyes. Returning home, Ryan finds out that his wife is pregnant with their second child, but the good news is short lived as he receives word that Miller has escaped custody. Being told not to worry, Ryan finds that he is being followed around and there might be trouble on the horizon. As Miller and his crew try to kill Ryan and his family, Ryan decides to resume his position at the C.I.A. to find the disgruntled I.R.A. member before he can cause harm to anyone else.

Sean Miller and his disgruntled I.R.A. faction have other plans in store for the crown as they are trying to build up their numbers once again, but Miller is still mourning the loss of his little brother. Blaming Ryan for his death, Miller will stop at nothing to avenge him and when he finds out that the previous attempt on Ryan and his family was unsuccessful, he comes up with another plan. Caring less about what could happen to him, Miller takes control of his men and comes back to America for one final try to end the feud between the two and make things right, but Ryan may have more resources than the Irishman extremist expects. 

The second installment of the Jack Ryan saga and it is a doozy. Just focusing on the main two stories of this one seems to be more than enough, but you still have to recognize that there is still so much more to the story. As Ryan is a very resourceful individual, he is able to fall back on his friends and co-workers for help and advice, but when there is a mad man that cannot be tamed by his own friends and family, there is nothing they can do to help him. I especially liked the Sean Miller aspect of the story as you get to see him battling for power and control of his faction for one reason, to avenge the death of his little brother. Losing respect for his cause and only focusing on this one thing changes him completely and if his friends and brothers are not going to help him accomplish his goal, they are of no use to him and he will leave them in the dust. To date, this is my favorite Jack Ryan movie with a powerful story, great actors and a storyline of revenge that will make you feel the pain of losing a loved one. Next up, Clear and Present Danger. Happy Viewing!

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