Review of Kingsman: The Secret Service (2015) by King D — 02 Nov 2017

Stylish, undeniably subversive and propped by an unwavering sense of fun and pride, Kingsman: The Secret Service is a riveting spy film that sends up the tropes of the genres with gleeful mockery. Taron Egerton is fine in the lead role, bringing a cool sense of confidence and charisma to his role that undermines the more hidden and dark backstory he has, even if it is a bit clichéd.

He and Colin Firth prove a very compelling duo, thanks to the sharp contrast and chemistry the two share as well as Firth's solid performance. The rest of the supporting cast are no less impressive, from Mark Strong to Michael Caine, and they all bring a sense of gravitas to their roles.

Samuel L. Jackson is also good as the antagonist, Dr. Valentine. He brings an admittedly hammy, but all together fitting personality to his character that's balanced ironically by an underlying intelligence and humourous flaw (the sight of blood) that makes his character entertaining to watch.

The plot serves, essentially as a send up of cliched and overused spy tropes as it pokes fun at all the key things the genre is known for while balancing against the constraints of it's own narrative.

The film's plot is at once e engaging but also downright ridiculous for while it does start off quite believable it quickly descends into chaos as the events unfold, and soon the film just stops making sense but so what? Its a clever twist on such a well worn genre that benefits from its many bold riffs it takes on them.

The film moves at a breakneck pace and not once was I uninterested in the events that unfold as although the film can get to the point where it lacks any sense, it wears it's pride on its sleeve and delivers wear it matters.

Matthew Vaughn's direction lends the film a stylish overhaul and the film benefits from his direction immensely. Steeped in the sophisticated design the spy genre is known for while providing it's own modern and techno based feel easily distinguishes it from the rest in the genre while the insanely well choreographed action sequences and camera work is some of the best I've ever seen.

The use of violence as a narrative tool is a bit questionable, particularly when the film hits overdrive and starts to seemingly indulge in it, but to be truthful, it does fit. The church massacre is the epitome of everything that's so great about the film, careless violence, particular attention to detail, insane choreography, classy style, rich design all set to the tune of a popping soundtrack.

Kingsman is one of the most entertaining films I've seen in years and while it won't be for everyone, it's gleeful sense of humor and self-awareness, as well as its sheer entertainment, will ensure that it does leave a lasting impact on those who do enjoy it.

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