The Bourne Ultimatum is a 2007 action-thriller film directed by Paul Greengrass, marking the third installment in the Bourne franchise.
Matt Damon reprises his role as Jason Bourne, a former CIA assassin who continues his quest for identity and truth while being pursued by various intelligence agencies.
The film picks up shortly after the events of The Bourne Supremacy. Following a harrowing escape from Moscow, Bourne is determined to uncover the details of his past and the covert operations that shaped his life. He learns that a British journalist, Simon Ross (Paddy Considine), is investigating Bourne's history and the CIA's secret programs, including Operation Blackbriar, which succeeded the now-defunct Treadstone program.
As Bourne attempts to connect with Ross, he realizes that the CIA is monitoring him and that Ross’s inquiries have put them both in danger. The film features intense action sequences, including chases through various international locations such as London, Tangier, and New York City. Bourne's journey leads him to confront key figures from his past, including Nicky Parsons (Julia Stiles), a former Treadstone operative who aids him in his quest for answers.
The narrative unfolds with Bourne discovering more about his recruitment into Treadstone and the dark secrets surrounding it, including the assassination of his father by the CIA. The film culminates in a series of confrontations with CIA operatives led by Deputy Director Noah Vosen (David Strathairn) and Dr. Albert Hirsch (Jeremy Irons), who oversaw Treadstone's behavior modification program.
Upon its release on August 3, 2007, The Bourne Ultimatum received critical acclaim for its tight pacing, gripping action sequences, and thought-provoking themes. It grossed over $442 million worldwide and won three Academy Awards, including Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing. Critics praised Damon’s performance and Greengrass’s direction, noting the film's ability to blend thrilling action with a complex narrative about identity and morality.
Overall, The Bourne Ultimatum solidified the franchise's reputation as a hallmark of modern action cinema while exploring deeper themes of self-discovery and the consequences of government secrecy. Its success paved the way for future installments in the Bourne series and remains a significant entry in the genre.