When Without Remorse premiered in 2021, expectations were sky-high. With Michael B. Jordan in the lead role of John Clark, a script co-written by Taylor Sheridan, and the story rooted in the Tom Clancy universe, it seemed destined for success. However, the spy thriller received mixed reviews, largely due to its deviation from Clancy’s original 1993 novel. But now, in 2025, the movie is experiencing a surprising resurgence in popularity, streaming on Hulu.
Who Is John Clark in Without Remorse?
For fans of the Tom Clancy franchise, John Clark is nearly as iconic as Jack Ryan. A Navy SEAL turned CIA black-ops operative, Clark’s origin story is central to Clancy’s espionage world. In the Without Remorse novel, readers are introduced to John Kelly, a man fueled by personal tragedy and military precision.
The film adaptation modernized the setting, but critics argued that it stripped away the complexity and moral ambiguity that defined Clark. Instead of the gritty psychological drama fans expected, the movie leaned heavily into over-the-top action sequences—losing the essence of what made the character compelling.
Taylor Sheridan’s Rare Miss
Co-written by Taylor Sheridan (Sicario, Hell or High Water) and Will Staples, Without Remorse should’ve brought the grounded, high-stakes storytelling Sheridan is known for. Unfortunately, the screenplay failed to deliver the same intensity. Critics noted a lack of depth in both the plot and character development, making this a rare misfire for the now-celebrated creator of Yellowstone and Mayor of Kingstown.
Michael B. Jordan, fresh off his acclaimed work in Creed and Black Panther, was expected to elevate the material—but even his charisma couldn’t fully redeem the film’s shortcomings.
Without Remorse Streaming Surge on Hulu in 2025
Despite its rocky reception, Without Remorse has found a second wind on Hulu, joining the ranks of rediscovered action thrillers. Whether viewers are watching out of curiosity or seeking high-octane spy content, the film is gaining new attention.
As streaming audiences continue to revisit Tom Clancy movie adaptations, this one stands out for its explosive action and modern reinterpretation—even if it didn’t quite live up to the Clancy legacy.
Should You Watch Without Remorse?
If you’re a fan of spy thrillers, military action movies, or simply want to see Michael B. Jordan in a high-stakes Clancy role, Without Remorse is worth checking out—flaws and all. It may not be the definitive John Clark origin story, but it still offers solid entertainment and a glimpse into Sheridan’s earlier screenwriting work.
