Run Lola Run (1988)

Written and directed by Tom Tykwer, this is a German film that takes a somewhat experimental approach. Like a student art film, it’s quirky and doesn’t follow standard narrative conventions. 

Lola (Franka Potente) needs to raise 100,000 Deutschmarks in 20 minutes to save the life of her boyfriend Manni (Moritz Bleibtreu). She has to run across the city and acquire the funds along the way. But, as with Groundhog Day, we see her repeat this narrative multiple times in her attempts to get it right.

It’s a great idea, but the execution is all over the place. At one point in the repeating sequence, live action is briefly replaced by animation. It’s also noticeable that one of the cameras produces higher-resolution footage than one of the others, making for an uneven mix. It’s unclear whether this is intentional, to vary the visual texture, or merely the result of poor production values.

Some of the acting is hammy, too. Overall, you feel it had potential that was never realised. But the central concept – of Lola running to the rescue – is a powerful one.

The Bourne Supremacy (2004)

Second instalment in the series inspired by Robert Ludlum’s novels. Matt Damon reprises the role of the CIA agent who lost his memory. This film pretty much continues where the last one left off. Bourne is now living in hiding in India with his partner Marie (Franka Potente), when their cover is blown and someone shows up to kill him. Once again he has to go on the run. Just like Dr. Richard Kimble in The Fugitive (his spiritual cousin), he also has to try to clear his name. 

It’s ridiculously exciting – probably even more so than The Bourne Identity. Director Paul Greengrass really understands how to make this kind of film work. The action sequences are superbly filmed and the pacing is spot on. The car chase in Moscow is especially thrilling. Also better in this film is the CIA boss (Joan Allen), who has a commanding presence. 

Matt Damon plays it just right: charismatic but understated. It makes the James Bond films (even the Daniel Craigs) look a little old hat.

The Bourne Identity (2002)

Taut thriller based on the Robert Ludlum novel and directed by Doug Liman. 

Matt Damon plays a man found shot, floating in the sea, just about alive but suffering severe amnesia. He tries to discover who he is and track down the agents (including Clive Owen) trying to kill him. In the process he uncovers a complex CIA conspiracy centred on a mysterious black-ops programme called Treadstone.

There are elements of James Bond (international locations, fast and thrilling chase sequences), The Fugitive (smart guy outwits authorities chasing him) and Memento (attempts to piece together a forgotten life), but it still feels fresh. The action never lets up and Damon’s subtle, low-key performance is easy to like. His Mini-driving German girlfriend Marie Kreutz (Franka Potente) is also appealing.

A string of sequels would follow.