August is almost here. With that, the final rush of big, blockbuster films, during the summer, is set for release. Although the jury, so to speak, is still out for this weekend, the prognosis looks very good for the latest installment of the “Mission: Impossible” movie franchise. Think about this: the American answer to James Bond only began making movies in 1996, over three decades after the film franchise of the MI6 hero began. During those 22 years, there have been a mere six “Mission: Impossible” movies, but a total of seven “007” films, with the earliest coming in 1997 and the latest coming in 2015. In other words, without the latest three-year gap and the early one-year absence for Bond, the prevalence of movies, based on his character, has been much greater, compared to Ethan Hunt. My thoughts about this were triggered by the overall quality I experienced in the latest “Mission: Impossible” film versus what I experienced with the latest “007” movie.

“Fallout” was directed by the same one who directed the previous entry, “Rogue Nation.” Keep in mind that Christopher McQuarrie is more than accustomed to the presence and involvement of Tom Cruise, in projects such as “Edge of Tomorrow” and the “Jack Reacher” films, among others. However, this is the first time in his career that McQuarrie has taken upon himself the “hat trick” of movie-making: directing, writing and producing. I must say that the results are more than adequate.

The film begins with a potentially-ominous dream sequence. Of course, as a viewer, there are specific expectations of predictability that keep moments like this from being too dramatic, but at face value, it is a good way to set the stage for our protagonist of the movie.

One thing that became clear, pretty early in the film, is how dark the movie is. It is not just the themes, but also the look. This, actually, reminded me of what I recalled from the last Bond film. Do these two franchises try to mirror one another, by chance, or not? By the way, for anyone who did not see the previous “Mission: Impossible” movie, do not worry. This one does fine on its own and still manages to catch certain viewers up without being an annoyance to those who are more familiar with the previous story.

As per usual, there are plenty of misdirections and disguises along the way. The international locations were made good use of, as well. It would be hard to imagine any situation that could be surprising or original, but if you can keep an open mind and not think too far ahead, you will not be disappointed.

The biggest strength, in my view, is the cast. While it is amazing how great Tom Cruise continues to be, as Ethan Hunt, after all these years, he is also surrounded by equally strong performances and it is not just the usual people, like Ving Rhames (“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2”) as Luther Stickell or Simon Pegg (“Ready Player One”) as Benji Dunn. Yes, Alec Baldwin (“The Boss Baby”) has returned, as well. As has Rebecca Ferguson (“The Snowman”). Ferguson’s character becomes a much more important piece in the story. The development there is significant.

The two who really stand out are Henry Cavill (“Justice League”) as August Walker and Vanessa Kirby (“Genius”) as White Widow. White Widow has all the makings of a great female villain, but despite the quality moments, I thought there could have been more of them, especially given the length of this particular film. As for Walker, he is a great companion to the story because he looks like a leading hero type. In short, he is the antithesis, but very believable, as either. Mister Cavill has continued to impress me and I expect much more in the future.

Although I liked this movie, I thought it was a bit too long. It was not boring, but there was so much story, it could have been put into two films. However, that would have meant too much padding in the next entry, so maybe the movie-makers made the right decision, after all. I would nitpick about some of the ridiculous, over-the-top stunts and action scenes, but what can any of us truly expect from an action film these days? Subtlety is a lost art form in this genre. Take this movie for what it is and you will probably be pleased enough to remember it well. I think I will. Perhaps these multi-year breaks, in between films, are a good strategy. I wonder if it will work as well for Mister Bond.

Director: Christopher McQuarrie
Screenwriter: Christopher McQuarrie
Based on: Mission: Impossible by Bruce Geller
Starring: Tom Cruise, Henry Cavill, Ving Rhames, Simon Pegg, Rebecca Ferguson as Ilsa Faust, Sean Harris as Solomon Lane, Michelle Monaghan as Julia Meade, Angela Bassett as Erica Sloane and Alec Baldwin
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Release date: July 27th, 2018