M:I3 gets its DVD release this week, and I sincerely hope it fairs better on home video than it did in the theatre. Tom Cruise's latest made a decent bundle, but it wasn't the huge blockbuster Paramount was banking on, and the shame of it is, this is one mega-budgeted studio action flick that deserved the big bucks. If you missed it, pick up the DVD. It's about as good as the first Mission: Impossible, but because this film feels more dangerous and unpredictable, it's my favorite of the series. Despite it not having a truly classic action scene at its disposal, this movie still managed to kick my butt.

If you find yourself just so overwhelmed by anything Cruise-related these days (and don't go thinking he doesn't know who you are!), below I have listed five modern-day spy favorites. Enjoy!

The Bourne Ultimatum: The Bourne Identity ruled, but this is one of the best sequels I've seen. That car chase at the end is ridiculous, but what really elevates this film is the motive behind Bourne's actions in the final half hour.

Ronin: Nobody really talks about this movie much, but I consider it a highlight in the career of director John Frankenheimer (The Manchurian Candidate). Another great car chase, wonderful characters, Mamet dialogue and a clinical, cold execution of action is on display.

No Way Out: I know about four people that have seen this movie, and they are all related to me. People, this is a great spy tale. It was a movie that really jump-started Kevin Costner's career, and it has one of the best twist endings you've never seen. The film is a little dated these days, but you have great performances from Costner, Gene Hackman, Will Patton and Iman!

Spy Game: What I like about this movie is that it's essentially two spy stories in one. On the one hand, it's a run against time the same way No Way Out is, with Robert Redford trying to save an imprisoned Brad Pitt before it's too late. One the other hand, it's also about Brad Pitt and Catherine McCormack's effective romance. Tony Scott over-directs, but it works.

Cloak and Dagger: Jack Flack lives! Come on, there has to be someone out there that remembers this '80s classic. Elliot, Dabney Coleman, and that freaky "grandmother" with the gimpy hand? They don't make enough movies designed to scar children for life these days. Why, when I was young I went to see The Dark Crystal and was frightened like all hell when it was over. It took months for me to trust The Muppets again.

Dre writes five times a week for Film.com, covering Movies and DVD with his Floridian flare.

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