Jack Reacher (2012) is an American action thriller film directed by Christopher McQuarrie, based on Lee Child's 2005 novel One Shot.
The film stars Tom Cruise in the titular role, alongside Rosamund Pike, Richard Jenkins, Werner Herzog, and David Oyelowo. The plot centers around a former military police investigator, Jack Reacher, who is called to help investigate a sniper shooting that left five people dead. The accused shooter, James Barr, insists on Reacher's involvement, leading him to uncover a larger conspiracy behind the incident.
Filming for Jack Reacher took place primarily in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the production began in October 2011, concluding in January 2012. The film was released on December 21, 2012, and was well-received at the box office, grossing over $218 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $60 million. Critics praised the film for its action sequences, Tom Cruise's performance, and McQuarrie's direction, though some noted that the plot relied on familiar thriller tropes.
The film's action sequences, including hand-to-hand combat and a thrilling car chase, were highlighted as standout moments, showcasing Reacher's exceptional combat skills. However, some critics pointed out that the character of Reacher, as portrayed by Cruise, diverged from the physical description in the novels, leading to initial casting controversy among fans. Despite this, Lee Child, the author of the source material, expressed his approval of Cruise's portrayal, appreciating his dedication to the character.
Jack Reacher received generally positive reviews, holding a score of 62% on Rotten Tomatoes and a Metacritic score of 53, indicating mixed or average reviews. The film's blend of action, mystery, and character-driven storytelling resonated with audiences, leading to a loyal fanbase. Its success prompted a sequel, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back, which was released in 2016.
Overall, Jack Reacher stands out as a thrilling adaptation of Lee Child's novel, combining intense action with a compelling narrative. The film's exploration of justice, morality, and the complexities of its titular character has contributed to its lasting appeal in the action thriller genre.