The Bourne Ultimatum: The Hidden Dimension

Just got back from The Bourne Ultimatum, and I agree with all the superlatives.  The movie had everything - fine, razor-keen acting, captivating plot, non-stop breathtaking action.   This third movie in the Bourne series is clearly the best of three - though the first, The Bourne Identity, was almost as good.  (I thought the second, The Bourne Supremacy, was not as good as the first and third.)

But I'm wondering why, given that the essential elements of the Bourne series plot are so familiar, these movies - and the first and last ones in particular - are so good.  We've seen many movies about spies and secret agents abused  by their employers.  Many movies about secret agent amnesia.  Many movies about spies on the run for their lives, helped by beautiful women, civilian or agent - some of whom survive, some not.

What makes the Bourne series different?

If I told you, my life would be forfeit...

No, only kidding - the truth is I don't know.  It's something I'll have to think about.

But I will, and when I come up with an answer, I'll get back you.  One of the nice things about blogs in contrast to, say, newspaper reviews, is that blog reviews can be easily updated...