While it started life as a remake of the popular 1960’s television series, the Mission Impossible film franchise has become one of the most popular of all time. Now a total of five movies (with a sixth already announced), the series has really found its rhythm with Rogue Nation, delivering plenty of action packed set pieces and some interesting characters along the way, with Tom Cruise’s Ethan Hunt at the center of it all.

Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation follows the same basic premise as the previous films; a mysterious organization known as the Syndicate is attempting to overthrow the government and it’s up to Ethan Hunt and the Impossible Missions Force (IMF) to prevent it. The CIA doesn’t believe the organization exists; Hunt knows differently and has been tracking their movements for quite a while. Making things even more difficult around t, the United States Government has rejected the actions of the IMF and its agents, specifically Ethan Hunt. The only way to clear his name is to prove the existence of the Syndicate and end their potential as a global threat.

Tom Cruise has long been known for preferring to do his own stunts. Rogue Nation opens with one of his most memorable as Cruise hangs on the outside of an airbus plane as it takes off. It sets the tone for the rest of the film; this is high adrenaline stuff and the stunts all look real. Tom Cruise looks as fit as ever and seems to have as much enthusiasm for the character of Ethan Hunt as he did the first time 19 years ago.

Not that it matters all that much, but Luther Stickell (Ving Rhames). Benjamin “Benji” Dunn (Simon Pegg), and William Brandt (Jeremy Renner), are back as part of Ethan’s team. Though I will admit, Simon Pegg provides a nice dose of humor that’s always welcome. Ilsa Faust (Rebecca Ferguson), is an MI6 agent who ‘s loyalty is unpredictable and Alec Baldwin turns up as Alan Hunley, the cantankerous head of the CIA. All of this doesn’t matter much, as the real thrill of Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation is watching Ethan Hunt as he scales planes and undertakes high speed motorcycle chases. This is popcorn movie making done very well. Cruise and co-writer/director Christopher McQuarrie (Valkyrie, Jack Reacher) have a longtime working relationship and are successful in delivering the non-stop thrill ride they intended.

Presented in its original 2.40:1 aspect ratio, the 1080p transfer is a stellar one. The stylized color palette really pops. Image detail and texture are spot on and the film’s various CGI effects blend in seamlessly with the live action. There’s no apparent digital issues, making this as close to a theatrical experience as possible.

The TrueHD 7.1 audio track (which actually defaults to a Dolby Atmos mix if you’re equipped for the new format), is as solid as the transfer. Surround activity is a near constant presence, with noticeable separation, nice LFE use, clear dialogue and dynamic range. This is a very pleasing mix that works well with the fast paced visuals.

English SDH, French, Spanish, and Portuguese subtitles are included.

The following extras are available:

  • Audio Commentary with Actor/ Producer Tom Cruise and Co-Writer/Director Christopher McQuarrie: The two men deliver an informative commentary, discussing the production, the story, the characters, the actors, various scenes, the music and more.
  • Lighting the Fuse (HD, 5:57) Christopher McQuarrie’s involvement in the project, creating the story, the action sequences and creating a story around them.
  • Cruise Control (HD, 6:33) Cruise’s deep level of involvement in the filmmaking process is discussed.
  • Heroes…(HD, 8:06) Takes a brief look at Ethan, Luther Benjamin, William and Ilsa their roles in the overall series and this film.
  • Cruising Altitude (HD, 8:23) A look at the making of the incredible opening sequence.
  • Mission: Immersible (HD, 6:45) A look at the making of the film’s underwater sequence.
  • Sand Theft Auto (HD, 5:35) A look at the making of the film’s high speed chases.
  • The Missions Continue (HD, 7:08) Cast and crew discuss the continuing popularity of the franchise.
  • A DVD Copy of the film.
  • UV/iTunes Digital Copy.