Franchise fatigue is a real phenomenon, and it is becoming increasingly prevalent in both Hollywood and the Indian film industry. However, the Mission: Impossible film franchise, which originated from a TV series in the 1960s and has now spanned nearly 30 years with seven films, continues to captivate audiences without showing signs of fatigue. The latest installment, Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One, has taken the level of awe and excitement to new heights. Similar to Tom Cruise's relentless running scenes, the franchise appears unstoppable. Among the films in the series, all time favorite remains 2018's Fallout, which stands out prominently. However, when it comes to the second-best choice, Dead Reckoning emerges as a strong contender alongside Rogue Nation from 2015.

Dead Reckoning Part One undoubtedly showcases the most impressive action sequences we have witnessed in the Mission: Impossible franchise. Considering that this series has featured Tom Cruise performing daring stunts like a halo jump, clinging to the side of an airplane, and scaling the Burj Khalifa, it's remarkable that this time he manages to surpass expectations by leaping off a cliff with a motorcycle, taking the thrills to new heights.

What is the film all about?

In "Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One," Ethan Hunt and his team of agents embark on a mission to save the world. However, this time, their objective is not to clear his name, combat a renegade agent, thwart an evil syndicate, or prevent a global catastrophe like a pandemic or nuclear war. The threat they face is an artificial intelligence known as 'the Entity.' This advanced AI possesses the capability to either rule or destroy the world and lacks any moral compass. Interestingly, the major world powers are enticed by the Entity's power and desire to possess it for their own dominance, which impedes the realization of an ideal society. To confront this peril, Ethan must operate independently, reunite with his trusted allies Luther Stickell, Benji Dunn, and Ilsa Faust, and locate two physical keys that, when combined, can control the AI.

The Mission: Impossible franchise has never been known for its realistic and intricately detailed storytelling, and Dead Reckoning: Part One follows suit in that regard. Whether it's the concept of machines overpowering humanity or the inclusion of a MacGuffin that needs to be assembled, these ideas are not groundbreaking. However, the undeniable star of the film is Tom Cruise, whose impressive running sequences continue to amaze despite his advancing age. Furthermore, just like the cruciform key that consists of two pieces that join together, the film (along with its upcoming sequel) shares several connections with the franchise's initial installment.

Mission: Impossible - Dead Reckoning Part One is an incredibly enjoyable ride that will make us overlook its flaws and not even notice its lengthy runtime of over 160 minutes. With thrilling action scenes and pleasantly well-developed female characters, it serves as a nearly flawless introduction to Dead Reckoning Part Two, which promises to be a grand finale for one of Hollywood's greatest action characters, portrayed by the last iconic action hero of Hollywood.