Jack Ryan: Why is Tom Clancy's CIA operative such an enduring character?

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. The likes of Ethan Hunt, Jason Bourne and Jack Ryan are less tied to the moment of their conception than Bond and adaptations of Clancy’s novels can therefore be adjusted to suit present geopolitical concerns and themes more readily, without fear of jeopardising precious character traits and beloved details. Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit Chris Pine’s spin on Ryan was suave indeed but the actor managed to come across as even more boyish and improbable than Affleck. Chris Pine and Keira Knightley in Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit Shadow Recruit also makes more of Ryan’s emotional life than usual, giving second billing to Keira Knightley as his long-term girlfriend Cathy Muller. The Hunt for Red October Alec Baldwin was the first to play Jack Ryan and brought a brooding, troubled, even soulful quality to the character that worked well.