The Sum of All Fears
Newly appointed CIA analyst prevents nuclear catastrophe
About The Sum of All Fears
Released: 2002
Platform: Hulu
Rating: PG-13
Run time: 2h 4m
Cast
Ben Affleck, Morgan Freeman, James Cromwell, Liev Schreiber, Bridget Moynahan
About The Sum of All Fears
'The Sum of All Fears' is an American spy thriller film that was released in 2002. It is based on the eponymous novel by Tom Clancy and is a gripping tale revolving around the potential outbreak of a nuclear war. The film is set in a scenario where the Cold War has ended, and neofascists have attempted to provoke a war between the United States and Russia. The protagonist, Jack Ryan, is a CIA analyst who tries to counteract their plans.
Making / Production
The film was under the direction of Phil Alden Robinson, who also gave us classics like 'Field of Dreams'. Mace Neufeld served as producer, continuing his streak with the Jack Ryan film franchise. It also marks a reboot in the series, with Jack Ryan portrayed as a much younger character.
Actors
- Ben Affleck: As Jack Ryan, he portrays a young and shrewd CIA analyst. His strategies employed to prevent a war form the crux of the film.
- Morgan Freeman: Playing the role of William Cabot, he adeptly portrays the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency.
- Bridget Moynahan: She plays Dr. Cathy Muller, the love interest of Jack Ryan and a specialist in infectious diseases.
- James Cromwell: As President Fowler, Cromwell effectively encapsulates the stress and pressure of being in charge during a crisis.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- The movie was released a few months after the 9/11 attacks but was filmed before the event.
- Ben Affleck was the third actor to play the cinematic version of Jack Ryan, following Alec Baldwin and Harrison Ford.
- The story involves a nuclear bomb that is much smaller and easier to transport than typical nuclear devices, which created a real-world debate about the plausibility of such weapons.
Awards
While the movie garnered mixed reviews from critics and did not win any major awards, it was a commercial success and was nominated for Best Sound Editing at the Academy Awards.
Quotes
- "This is the only thing that can kill me." - Jack Ryan
- "We'll be alright. I promise." - Cathy Muller
Music, Soundtrack
- Main Theme: Composed by Jerry Goldsmith and features a hauntingly poignant theme.
- 'If We Could Remember': Sung by Yolanda Adams, this song leaves a profound effect on the narrative of the movie.
- 'Nevsky': Composed by Sergei Prokofiev, it is a classic that complements the movie’s intense storyline.
About The Sum of All Fears
An American CIA analyst thwarts a nuclear plot between Russia and neo-Nazis, preventing a catastrophic third World War.