If you’re looking for a deep, slow paced, psychologically challenging film packed with controversial issues that will leave you questioning your childhood as you exit the theater, this movie is NOT for you.
A revamped spy film, The Man from U.N.C.L.E is based on the 1960s TV series of the same name that is set in the 1960s, during the height of the Cold War. Bitter enemies, USSR and America, are forced to work together to combat a dangerous criminal organization lead by femme fatale Victoria Vinciguerra, played by Elizabeth Debicki. In the middle of this conflict are criminal turned CIA operative Napoleon Solo (Henry Cavill) and KGB agent Illya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer.) The pair find themselves with one connection to the criminal organization: Gabby Teller (Alicia Vikander), the daughter of an ex-Nazi nuclear scientist. In the midst of all this is Waverly (Hugh Grant), the mysterious leader of the international organization, U.N.C.L.E. (United Network Command for Law and Enforcement.)
The chemistry between Solo and Kuryakin is played out through tension (and humor) in their relationship stemming from their respective employers’ rivalry. As the film goes on, we begin to see a brotherhood form between the two partners. The comedic romance between Kuryakin and Teller, and the Sherlock-esque mystery brought to the film by director Guy Ritchie (Sherlock Holmes, Snatch) add a lot to the storyline. Couple this with the skillful choice of music, as well as the 1960s style set, costumes, and props that give a sense of old fashioned style missing from other spy films, and you get a light hearted action movie that will leave you gripping your seat in one scene and laughing your head off in another.
[one_third]A light hearted action movie that will leave you gripping your seat in one scene and laughing your head off in another.[/one_third]
However, one thing that could have been developed more is the origin of Waverly and his secret organization U.N.C.L.E. since they are central in both the original TV series and the title of the movie.
Overall, this film is a must seemovie for both seasoned The Man from U.N.C.L.E. fans as well as newcomers to the world of U.N.C.L.E.
