Jeremy Renner replaces Matt Damon at the center of the Bourne franchise, and the studio should’ve just left well enough alone.
The events of The Bourne Legacy take place at the same time as Damon’s last Bourne outing, The Bourne Ultimatum. We know this because Matt Damon’s character is mentioned on occasion, and his image shows up during TV news telecasts. It’s just a reminder of how much more fun the franchise was with Damon starring.
Renner plays Aaron Cross, who, like Damon’s Bourne, is part of a superagent experiment. He’s a superstrong, supersmart agent thanks to some magic drugs and outlandish writing. Renner is a decent enough actor, but he’s no Matt Damon. Consequently, Aaron Cross is no Jason Bourne.
Edward Norton is new to the series as a suspicious retired colonel, and Rachel Weisz is cast as well. Both barely register. Yes, the Bourne movies made a lot of money, but when Damon basically refused to soldier on, it would’ve been a good idea to let things lie for a while. This one feels rushed and unimportant.
There was some talk of Damon and Renner teaming for a future chapter. I’m doubting that will ever happen, but it’s not a bad idea. Damon needs a hit, and Renner needs some help.
SPECIAL FEATURES: You get a director’s commentary with Tony Gilroy, deleted scenes and some making-of featurettes.