Monday 23 February 2015

Kingsman: The Secret Service - Movie Review

If Bond had followed Hot Fuzz instead of Jason Bourne, This is probably the film we would have gotten.

From Tracky Bottoms to Bespoke suits, this decidedly British film feels like a rejuvenation of the classic spy romp. Although there have been many attempts to re-introduce a tongue in cheek sense humour to the spy genre, with most ending up swimming with the sharks. Kingsman on the other hand hits it out of the park in more ways than one. Based on Mark Millar's Comic Book, the film follows the story of young hoodlum "Eggsy" and his induction to the world of a Kingsman agent, which includes amazing gadgets and enemies with blades for feet.


Then there is his mentor Harry Hart, played brilliantly by Colin Firth who becomes the Bond that never was. But he excels in the role bringing Heart, comedy and brilliant chemistry with his young protege. The rest of the cast serving just as well, with each of them bringing just enough charm and character to each role to make them memorable. We also get to see the rare occasion in which Mark Strong doesn't play a bad guy, and he's brilliantly lovable in the role.

I would also be amiss if I didn't mention The "Scene" that kicks of the third act, but annoyingly all i can say is Wow. The scene transforms Firth from suave gentleman to an Action god in seconds and is easily the best action sequences I have seen in years.

The films also wears it references like a bespoke suit, frequently referencing other spy mainstays, as well as a gloriously Meta scene that pulls a few punches against the current climate of the spy genre.

The film doesn't come out unscathed though, the structure is at times a bit wonky, which does create an air of unpredictability, but it does hang in certain places a bit too long. There are also some (One) jokes that fail to hit the target.

In the end, this British Spy romp is a delight, its both out-there and humble, and is a film a that I will enjoy for years to come.

Rating 8/10




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