Synopsis: A secret intelligence service based out of a tailors in Savile Row unearths a plot to kill off a large portion of the worlds population and a new recruit is called upon to help.
Stan's thoughts: My friend Kate described this perfectly as James Bond crossed with Kill Bill. It cranks up suave Bond, gadget Bond, car Bond to 11 and then adds in Kill Bill-style fights and ruthless villains. It gently mocks Bond, the characters even referencing the films.
Seeing Colin Firth in an action hero role is a bit of a revelation, albeit an action hero who is always impeccably turned out. And Taron Egerton* does a fab job as Eggsy, the recruit from the wrong side of the tracks trying to make his mark.
There are a couple of kick ass ladies in the mix too - Samuel L Jackson's lisping villain has an Uma Thurman in Bride mode-style side kick (Sofia Boutella) and there is a ballsy and brainy recruit (Roxy played by relative newcomer Sophie Cookson) who keeps Eggsy on his toes.
And just to round it off you have the likes of Mark Strong, Michael Caine and cameos from Jack Davenport and none other than Mark Hamill.
Kingsman was just what I needed after a run of serious Oscar films. It is over the top and silly but it is also cool as a cucumber, fun and entertaining and I left with a big grin on my face.
* Great to see him securing big roles - have seen him on stage a couple of times. He had a small role in Last of the Haussman's with Julie Walters at the National Theatre but certainly made an impression and then more recently in No Quarter at the Royal Court. You can see him next in Brian Helgeland's film Legend about the Kray twins which is due for release in September.
Ratings
- Stan’s 79%
- IMDB 83%
- Metascore 59%
- Rotten Tomatoes 71%
- RT Audience Rating* 89%
* Number of people rating 3.5/5 or higher
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