By John Corrado

★★ (out of 4)

A followup to the 2012 film, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back finds its title character (Tom Cruise) no longer working for the military.  But when he finds out that his old friend Major Susan Turner (Cobie Smulders) is under investigation for espionage, they go on the run to clear her name.  Also along for the ride is the street smart teenager Samantha (Danika Yarosh), who may just be his wayward daughter.

Directed by Edward Zwick, delivering one of his weaker efforts, Jack Reacher: Never Go Back is a formulaic action sequel that feels thoroughly by the numbers.  It does have some entertaining moments sprinkled throughout, and a trio of decent leads, but the whole thing ultimately feels like a B-grade franchise entry, especially when compared to Tom Cruise’s far superior Mission: Impossible films.

The Blu-ray also includes a selection of six featurettes that all provide good background on the film, focusing on the main characters, action choreography, on location shooting in Louisiana, and even a piece with the on-set still photographer.  Packaged with the film is an exclusive illustrated short story entitled Everyone Talks by Lee Child, which does provide a nice addition to the set.

Jack Reacher: Never Go Back is a Paramount release.  It’s 118 minutes and rated PG.