On Why the Bourne Series is the Best American Film Trilogy Ever Made at 11/27/2007 01:32am

(blush) It's 1:30 am in my corner of the world and the alarm is set for 6:30. Please excuse the typos. Speed-typing with tired fingers is ill advised in the wee hours of the morning. :)

On Why the Bourne Series is the Best American Film Trilogy Ever Made at 11/27/2007 01:23am

Yeah, I know ... I'm really late commenting on your "Bourne Ultimatum review. Firstly, my English major alter ego demands I applaud you for your brilliant analysis of the "Bourne" film and characters. The 'Hero's Journey' bring back intriguing memories of Joseph Campbell (now, is it the Navel of the world or the universe?). :)

I'm commenting on the mistake you and nearly everyone who has reference this line of dialogue has made. I'm referring to Nicky's question to Jason Bourne 'after' the "It was difficult for me ... with you" line. She did not say "You don't remember anything, do you?" What she actually says, while anxiously watching him is "You really don't remember anything?" The first version of this sentence makes a statement, whereas the second version gives a sense of urgency or desperation. I believe it was the way Julia Stiles delivered this line that has half of the known world betting on a past romantic relationship. It certainly indicates there was 'something' between them in the past worth remembering; at least, for Nicky Parsons.

In an interview Julia Stiles said that Paul Greengrass left the Cafe scene up to the two actors to interpret. Julia's interpretation of the scene is that Jason Bourne and Nicky Parsons either had a relationship prior to his amnesia, or Nicky has been 'pining' for him, but now feels it is inappropriate to mention (I suppose that explains Nicky's silence and all those longing looks cast at Bourne). It was amazing acting by Stiles. When Bourne answered her question with "No," you could see something shatter in her eyes. In face, to me both actors used their eyes to convey emotions quite well. The hair dying bathroom scene and the scene just before Nicky gets on the bus are riveting. LOL!! Sorry to ramble. Great review!