First off, I know nothing of the book and original story. I went into the movie thinking of it as a kind of "Nikita" movie and because I like the actors and actresses I wanted to give it a shot.

I'm not going to give up any of the movie but I can tell you this. It was very well done. Are there errors? Yes. I've yet to see a perfect movie. But the acting is great. The cinematography is nicely done. Story is very well written. Are the twists and turns predictable? Maybe. But I don't sit in movies trying to figure them out. I like to let the movie take me on a journey. And this one delivered.

I honestly don't understand all the negative reviews. Everyone around me in our theater loved it. Was it violent? Oh yeah. More than I expected. Even a bit vicious, if you will. It was hardcore. Was it a bit harsh on the Russians? Yes. But this is fiction. It's not a biography. And having been to Russia and soent time there, it had a very Russian flare. I would say that it was modern day mixed with cold war.

But let me tell you, I doubt the concepts were horribly off the mark. And, honestly, you could probably reverse the countries positions in the movie and still wouldn't be horribly off the mark. I mean, we're talking about espionage and counter-espionage... All's fare in love and war, right?

My suggestion? Disregard the reviews. Go see it with an open mind and give it a chance. I did and I loved it! Can't wait for the wife to see it and to watch it with her!