Mission: Impossible III • The Next Reel

“Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall.”Ethan’s back, and he’s getting married!It took some time to sort out the plans for this one’s script, and it wasn’t easy finding the director either. Tom Cruise and Paula Wagner did get there though, locking in TV showrunner JJ Abrams to co-write and helm the third in this franchise, making it his feature film debut. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we continue our ‘Mission: Impossible’ series with a look at Abrams’ 2006 film Mission: Impossible III. Here’s a hint at what we talk about.The film starts with a gut punch, introducing us to the villain and setting up Ethan and his wife in a position as hostages. Philip Seymour Hoffman as Owen Davian, the villain, is perfect and the star of this film, but is it too early to start having issues? As someone much more in tune with co-writer/director JJ Abrams at the time, Pete was very much in the bag for being there with Abrams as he made the leap to the big screen. Andy didn’t have that connection so didn’t have as much of an interest in the film (or the franchise at this point after John Woo’s second entry). So does the opening work? We talk about the vibe of the film and how, because of the romance between Ethan and Julia, it feels very different. Largely, it works and moves us past Woo’s mess of a film into something that feels better already. It’s just unfortunate that there are still so many issues. Perhaps the largest is that it never quite feels cinematic.Regardless, it’s a fun entry into the franchise and gives us plenty to dig into. 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 SundriesJoin the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Learn more about supporting The Next Reel Film Podcast through your own membership.Watch this on Apple or Amazon, or find other places at JustWatchScript OptionsTheatrical trailerPoster artworkFlickchartLetterboxd Start your own podcast journey with the best host in the business. Try TRANSISTOR today!Want to upgrade your LETTERBOXD account? Use our PROMO CODE to get a DISCOUNT and help us out in the process!Find source material for The Next Reel’s family of podcasts – and thousands of other great reads – at Audible! Get your free audiobook and 30-day free trial today.Join the conversation with movie lovers from around the world on The Next Reel’s Discord channel!Here’s where you can find us around the internet:The WebLetterboxdFacebookInstagramThreadsXYouTubeFlickchartPinterestPete AndyWe spend hours every week putting this show together for you, our dear listener, and it would sure mean a lot to us if you considered becoming a member. When you do, you get early access to shows, ad-free episodes, and a TON of bonus content. To those who already support the show, thank you. To those who don’t yet: what are you waiting for?Become a Member Today! $5 monthly or $55 annuallyWhat are some other ways you can support us and show your love? Glad you asked!You can buy TNR apparel, stickers, mugs and more from our MERCH PAGE.Or buy or rent movies we’ve discussed on the show from our WATCH PAGE.Or buy books, plays, etc. that was the source for movies we’ve discussed on the show from our ORIGINALS PAGE.