I think I've finally figured out the secret to an enjoyable experience at the movies.  It's to go in with low expectations.  I went to see Jack Reacher mostly out of curiosity, but I was hoping to have some fun.  I knew nothing of the story at all and figured at the very worst I may walk out of the theater feeling like I lost a couple hours of my life.  That's not what happened at all.  I left very pleased and with a smile on my face.  I never would have thought that this would, so far, be my favorite movie of the holiday season. 

Jack Reacher is very reminiscent of a 90's cop/investigation movie.  There are some cheesy moments, but they are supposed to be cheesy.  The audience is laughing with the director, not at him.  It's a little long but it moves pretty quick.  There were only acouple moments that I felt dragged.  Cruise plays the title character well in my opinion.  I've never read the books, but he certainly pulled it off in my mind. The best way to describe the style of movie is CSI meets any Jason Statham movie.  The investigaton parts are great with Reacher picking up clues no one would have thought of, but he's also a heck of a fighter taking down guys that come at him.

Jack Reacher isn't what the Academy would call a "good movie," but the audience at my screening all walked out happy and ready to spread the word.  I think Jack Reacher is a great choice for a holiday flick.