"Ronin" is wildly entertaining and highly crafted. Some think De Niro was in a 'trough' when he made this film; instead, I feel he is -- quite simply -- exceptional and REAL, as always DeNiro is doing nothing he hasn't done a 1,000 times before in this role but it's precisely *because* he does such characters all the time that he's so good at it. Jean Reno is equally capable of matching De Niro on screen and they form a nice relationship that doesn't grate. The other actors are all acceptable although not outstanding.
The plot is decent, but not dripping with originality. Look it's a terrorist organization. And look it's the IRA again and the Northern Ireland situation depicted with all the lack-of-knowledge Hollywood is so good at. The double crossing is amusing and makes sense - these characters aren't exactly on the side of angels are they? The action sequences are great fun too and, it must be admitted, feature the best car chases of any movie I've seen from the 90s. Which is saying something. On a down side to the plot it gets a tad ridiculous when, over the course of the movie, approximately half of France's population gets wiped out in the various car chases and gun battles... it's a tad over the top (though adrenalin pumping)
John Frankenheimer directing was very competent. The chase scenes are done particularly well with the cameras mounted to the front of the car to give you the feeling of speed. It's what helps lift this movie up that bit more from the other dross. Other than that I'd recommend this movie, especially for fans of the heist genres or those who like car chases. You won't be bored ever and will spend an enjoyable couple of hours viewing it.