Mission: Impossible: Brian De Palma creates a stylish, slick thriller that is constantly exciting despite having few high-octane action scenes. The plot is simple (but not dumb), enough to make it a good origin story of sorts, all the while respecting the source material. The cast is solid; Tom Cruise has the proper amount of energy for the role, but it’s hard, whenever Vanessa Redgrave is part of a project, for her not to be the standout. She brings charm and a certain dose of mischief, making a character that would disappear in lesser hands interesting. De Palma and his cinematographer, Stephen H. Burum, create unusual shots and construct the central set-piece beautifully.

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