In response to Season 2 of Amazon’s Jack Ryan, Comingsoon.net is taking a look at every adaptation the Tom’s Clancy character—ranking them for worst to best. Check out our take in the gallery below!
Novelist Tom Clancy is best known for his spy-driven and militaristic books; his most well-known literary character is that of Jack Ryan. The C.I.A analyst’s first appearance was in Clancy’s premiere novel, The Hunt for Red October. The character is featured in over 20 books; there has been a lot of material for filmmakers to dive into, and they have. With 5 film adaptations so far and now (as you know), an Amazon series that aims to cover any and all of its source material.
Adapting a character and their story is never an easy task for Hollywood; often the details come to fruition differently while other things are embellished. Amazon’s series is definitely going the more action-oriented route and seems to be all the better for it. Here is a look at all of the Jack Ryan adaptations and the actors who have played the iconic character.
The Best Jack Ryan Adaptations Ranked
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Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit (2014)
Some people may have been excited for the return of Jack Ryan after so many years off screen. Shadow Recruit has a stellar cast and it tries its best, but it never quite reaches the cinematic heights of its predecessors.
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The Sum of All Fears (2002)
While Ben Affleck isn't the best Jack Ryan, The Sum of All Fears is a passable thriller with relevant themes.
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Clear and Present Danger (1994)
Harrison Ford is easily the best big screen Jack Ryan and this film capitalizes his action hero status at a time when he was all the rage (especially after Patriot Games).
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Patriot Games (1992)
What makes Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger great adaptations are the entertaining set pieces and, as said, Harrison Ford's star power.
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Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan (2018-?)
Jack Ryan's first season blew a lot of people away, especially since John Krasinski isn't necessarily the most conventional choice for the role. Throw a relatable guy in great action sequences and you have a hit.
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The Hunt for Red October (1990)
The first is always the best; suspenseful and well cast, even if its not exactly faithful to its source material.
