The rebirth of the modern action hero

"The Bourne Supremacy" picks up where "The Bourne Identity" left off -- both are action flicks in which brains best brawn. Based on a series of novels by late author Robert Ludlum, these two movies have infused the languishing spy genre with grit, intelligence and style -- elements long-since bungled by the Bond franchise. Where "Identity" was an entertaining analog throwback to action films of yore, "Supremacy" holds true to its title as an overall improvement.\nMatt Damon reprises his role as Jason Bourne, a former CIA assassin looking to overcome the amnesia that afflicted him in his first outing. Holed up in Goa, India with anti-Bond girl, Marie (the down to earth Franka Potente), life is good for Bourne. That is until he's targeted by Kirill ("Lord of the Rings" vet Karl Urban), a Russian rival who recently framed our hero for the murders of black-ops agents in Berlin. Things go awry, and Bourne's back on the warpath -- hunting those who choose to hunt him. Amongst these folks are Pamela Landy (an inspired Joan Allen), an unflappable CIA agent, and Bourne's established nemesis from the first film, Agency figurehead Ward Abbott (the irreplaceable Brian Cox). True to form, the worldly action series jet sets from the aforementioned India and Germany to Italy, Russia, New York City and Washington D.C., doing so smoothly and convincingly.\nSeated in the director's chair this time around is Paul Greengrass, helmer of the rightfully praised Irish docu-drama "Bloody Sunday." He's an inspired choice to be sure, much like director Doug Liman (best known up until that point for comedies such as "Swingers" and "Go") was with the first installment. Many have complained about the excessive use of a handheld camera in "Supremacy." It's ever-present to be sure, while also being insanely effective. In tense situations such as a fistfight or car chase, the camera's movements become rather erratic and the editing far more aggressive, capably capturing chaos. The technique is undeniably vérité, but who's to say you can't have a little artistry with your action.\nThe proceedings have improved overall. Damon furthers his muted work as Bourne, which is perfect, as a showier performer wouldn't be believable in the role. Allen imbues her character with dignity and smarts, and it's refreshing to see a woman of power within the action realm. Even aging teen queen Julia Stiles, who's normally grating, does solid work in an extended turn from the first movie. More notable, however, is Urban, who despite rarely speaking conveys great menace and cool as the raging Russkie.\nWhile there are a few plot holes -- that's to be expected for the genre -- they're not so glaring as to completely take audiences out of the narrative. Hopefully, this franchise will continue onward by adapting Ludlum's "The Bourne Ultimatum" with the same sense of gusto and adventure seen in the first two pictures.