Really cool that we have something that acts like a sequel to the very first film. In of production design, aesthetic choices, action sequences, and returning characters, it all seems meticulously planned to make the series come full circle. But beyond that, amidst its dense exposition, Dead Reckoning Part One sets the stage for an epic culmination of everything thus far. The action goes somehow even larger in scope, more stylish and stakes-heavy than before. Though I much prefer Fallout's thrill-ride, I can't deny - this is a new level. It takes some mighty big swings on an audience that hasn't grown accustom to a certain level of sophistication in a while, and boy, I appreciated all the efforts. Probably Cruise's best performance in these by a long-shot, too. The stuff with the Entity I know is a stretch for some, but in this series, it almost makes sense to go back to a paranoia-infused thriller for the finale. (It also is quite funny that Hunt's mission is to "kill the 'God'" given his personal life, but I digress.) I can't begin to describe the tension in the theater during that pitch-perfect third act - something that gives me hope that this art form isn't dead after all. It's almost criminal that it was split into two parts, but if this is the prologue? I can't wait to see how it ends.