Review by Jon Donnis
"Argylle," directed and produced by Matthew Vaughn, is a rollercoaster ride of espionage, comedy, and unexpected twists. The film follows Elly Conway, played convincingly by Bryce Dallas Howard, an introverted spy novelist whose fictional creations become entangled with reality when she discovers her novels are predicting the actions of a nefarious organization, the Division.
The plot kicks off with a thrilling train ambush, swiftly setting the pace for a wild adventure. Sam Rockwell shines as Aidan, the charming and enigmatic spy who rescues Elly and guides her through the dangerous world of espionage. The chemistry between Howard and Rockwell drives the narrative, keeping audiences engaged as they unravel the mysteries surrounding Elly's identity and the elusive Masterkey.
Vaughn's direction infuses the film with a playful energy reminiscent of classic Bond films, balancing action-packed sequences with laugh-out-loud comedy. The film cleverly subverts spy genre tropes while delivering exhilarating set pieces and memorable moments. However, the third act falters slightly, with some scenes dragging on longer than necessary, dampening the momentum built up in the earlier parts of the film.
The ensemble cast delivers strong performances across the board, with standout roles from Bryan Cranston as the menacing Ritter and Catherine O'Hara as Elly's supportive yet resourceful mother. Henry Cavill's as Agent Argylle adds an exciting twist to the story, setting the stage for potential sequels.
While the film's runtime of nearly 2 hours and 20 minutes may test some viewers' patience, the overall experience is well worth the investment. The CGI effects occasionally falter, pulling audiences out of the moment, but they are outweighed by the film's other strengths.
In conclusion, "Argylle" is a refreshing take on the spy genre, blending action, comedy, and intrigue into an entertaining package. Despite its minor flaws, the film delivers on its promise of a fun and exhilarating ride. With its stellar cast, clever plot twists, and humorous moments, "Argylle" earns a solid 8 out of 10.
It's a must-watch for fans of spy films looking for something new and exciting.
Out in cinemas now and
Apple TV at https://apple.co/3w5ZZDn
