The Bourne Identity

Robert Ludlum's The Bourne Identity, the first in his trio of international thrillers featuring master spy Jason Bourne, was a sensation when it was published in 1980. Now, this potent novel gets an edgy 21st century spin from director Doug Liman (Swingers, Go) who delivers Ludlum's high-stakes tale with grit, style, and nerve.

The story opens as an amnesiac (Damon) is rescued at sea by the crew of an Italian fishing boat. Nearly dead, he carries only the bullets in his back and the bank account number implanted in his hip. Although completely without identity or background, he does possess an array of extraordinary talents in fighting, linguistics, and self-defence that speak of a dangerous past. He sets out on a desperate search, assisted by the initially rebellious Marie (Potente), to discover who he really is, and why so many people want him dead.

The Bourne Identity also stars Chris Cooper (American Beauty), Clive Owen (Croupier), Brian Cox (L.I.E.), and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (The Mummy Returns). Doug Liman, Patrick Crowley, and Richard N. Gladstein produced the film from a screenplay by Tony Gilroy and William Blake Herron. The executive producers are Frank Marshall and Robert Ludlum.

Critic Reviews:

• " The body language and personality that Damon invests in Bourne creates an impression of intelligence and depth. " – Namrata Joshi

• " Breathtakingly, beautifully simple. " – Tim Brayton

• " Violent but thrilling first of the Bourne action trilogy. " – Sierra Filucci