Film Review: ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’
Director: Matthew Vaughn
Cast: Colin Firth, Taron Egerton, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Caine
Age Restriction: 16 LV
Genre: Action
Runtime: 129 minutes
Release date: 13 February 2015
Loosely based on The Secret Service comic book, Kingsman is a spy film that many will deem a Bond-style homage except unlike Bond, Kingsman incorporates dark humour, strong language and over-the-top violence into the espionage genre.
These elements combine to create a fun, slick and highly entertaining film as Kingsman practically spoofs spy films and ends up crafting its own brand of originality.
The film follows protagonist Eggsy (Taron Egerton) who lives in the Ghetto of Britain and is mostly in trouble with the law. One day, Eggsy is bailed out of jail by Harry Hart (Colin Firth) – a secret agent who convinces him to join Kingsman – a spy organisation to which he accepts.
In order to become a fully fledged agent, Eggsy has to compete in a tough training program along with a horde of other hopefuls, with the last remaining person officially being crowned a Kingsman agent.
During Eggsy’s training, the film’s antagonist Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson) is plotting something sinister involving cell phone SIM cards (a genius plot I might add) which could ultimately destroy the world as we know it with Harry hot on his trail.
Kingsman’s plot is well adapted and excellently executed as director Matthew Vaughn adds a lot of his own innovative flair which makes for one heck of an entertaining film. As previously mentioned, Kingsman blends action, comedy, violence, parody and espionage into one film which makes it a unique piece of cinema in every way.
The action sequences were well choreographed with the over-the-top cartoonish violence being surprise enjoyment to witness.
The film’s wicked sense of humour is a guilty pleasure as people getting pummelled, hurt and not to mention the foul-mouthed dialogue – all of which tends to get a chuckle out of most audiences.
The film’s acting is spot on with Egerton delivering a fine lead performance as the unrefined Eggsy who despite his misdemeanours is likable due to the film’s empathetic approach to this well-developed character.
Firth continues to impress and has the opportunity to be a badass, as it was rather fun watching the fellow gentleman kick some butt. Jackson’s villain with a lisp and an aversion to blood (funnily enough) was a real treat to behold with the actor bringing something different yet comedic to the role.
Kingsman was well shot and edited with amazing cinematography, and a set design that’s stylish and slick in every way.
All in all, Kingsman: The Secret Service exceeds all expectations and is unique film due to its ability to blend action, humour, espionage and strong language into a fun and highly entertaining film.
Personally, I hope they make sequel and am completely anticipating Vaughn’s next directorial project as this talented filmmaker continues captivate with an array of impressive films on his resume including: Kick Ass, X-Men: First Class and Stardust.
