Review By Jon Donnis
"My Spy: The Eternal City," directed by Pete Segal, is a delightful sequel to the 2020 hit "My Spy," bringing back the dynamic duo of Dave Bautista as JJ and Chloe Coleman as Sophie. The film continues their adventures with a fresh, humorous, and heartwarming narrative set against the stunning backdrops of Italy.
The plot kicks off with Sophie's high school choir securing an enviable gig to tour Italy, culminating in a grand performance for the Pope in Vatican City. This trip becomes the perfect pretext for JJ to bond with his new stepdaughter, Sophie. What begins as an idyllic chaperoning duty quickly escalates into a thrilling escapade as JJ and Sophie find themselves embroiled in a terrorist plot with catastrophic implications. The narrative cleverly juxtaposes the serene beauty of Venetian canals, Florence's picturesque bridges, and Rome's historical splendour with the high-stakes tension of espionage.
Dave Bautista shines as JJ, adeptly blending his tough-guy persona with a softer, more vulnerable side that comes to the fore in his interactions with Sophie. Bautista's comedic timing is impeccable, and his ability to handle both action and comedy with ease makes him a joy to watch. Chloe Coleman continues to impress as Sophie, balancing youthful exuberance with surprising maturity and intelligence. Their on-screen chemistry is the heart of the film, delivering both laughs and touching moments.
The supporting cast adds layers of humour and charm, with Kristen Schaal and Ken Jeong reprising their roles as Bobbi and David Kim, respectively. Their comedic contributions are bolstered by newcomers Anna Faris, Craig Robinson, and Flula Borg, each bringing their unique flair to the ensemble. The interactions between these characters add a delightful complexity and energy to the film.
One of the film's standout features is its use of Italy as a backdrop. The picturesque locations not only serve as eye candy but also enrich the narrative, making the setting almost a character in itself. The film takes full advantage of Italy's scenic beauty, providing a feast for the eyes as the story unfolds amidst iconic landmarks and vibrant streets.
"My Spy: The Eternal City" excels in delivering action-packed sequences that are both thrilling and visually spectacular. The choreography of the action scenes is impressive, ensuring that they are both dynamic and coherent. Coupled with a steady stream of genuinely funny moments, the film maintains a brisk and entertaining pace throughout.
However, the film is not without its shortcomings. It does occasionally fall into the trap of predictability, with certain plot points feeling rather formulaic and reminiscent of other action comedies. The narrative can sometimes feel like it was crafted by an algorithm, ticking all the expected boxes without venturing into truly original territory. This lack of unpredictability might be a letdown for some viewers looking for more nuanced storytelling.
My Spy: The Eternal City is a thoroughly enjoyable addition to Amazon Prime's library. It may not break new ground in the genre or sweep the award circuits, but it offers a solid, entertaining experience that will undoubtedly resonate with its audience. Fans of Dave Bautista and the original film will find plenty to love, from the breathtaking Italian landscapes to the heartfelt familial bonding and the well-executed comedy and action sequences. I give "My Spy: The Eternal City" a solid 7.5 out of 10, celebrating it as a fun, feel-good film that delivers exactly what it promises.
Out Now on Amazon Prime at https://amzn.to/3LrW7Rs
