American Ultra

(Nima Nourizadeh/2015/USA) 

A by the book action comedy about a stoner who, unbeknownst to himself, is a dormant CIA agent and has to come to terms with his past when rival CIA factions clash over a decision to terminate him. Much hilarity ensues when he is triggered by a CIA operative looking out for him and he springs into action against his assailants. It’s The Bourne Identity meets Cheech and Chong and whilst there’s nothing new here it is a decent fish out of water hi jinx spy caper. There are solid performances from Kristen Stewart and Jesse Eisenberg and a few laugh out loud moments but it’s really just a rehash of various other flicks (see Kick Ass, Nikita, Bourne etc). Overall it doesn’t gel together in places but tips along at a fast enough pace to keep you watching til the end.

(2.5/5)