This is a spy-action-comedy set in the ultra glamorous cold war of the early 1960s. It's a reimagining of the classic television series of the same name, but has very little connection to that show.
The film follows the unlikely partnership of Napoleon Solo (Henry Cavill), a charming and sophisticated CIA agent, and Illya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer), a stern and disciplined KGB operative. Forced to put aside their professional rivalry and join forces to stop a mysterious criminal organization from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
This is definitely a Guy Richie film. It moves fast from action to more action followed by action, interspersed with one-liners. There's an interesting editing trick of in the moment flash backs where we see missing moments quick-cut into the current thread, from the scene we literally just watched. The technique easily adds drama, and a touch of comedy. Fortunately the film only does this 2 or 3 times. It's a gimmick that could get old real fast.
And then there's the designer clothes, groovy cool soundtrack, colorful cinematography, glamourous locations, retro-esque split screen effects and more in the mix. There's no mistaking the ride we're in for right from the opening.
Hyper stylish visuals, rapid fire action, and unlikely buddy spies... I'm not sure it's as high on the re-watchability scale as say "Snatch", but "The Man from U.N.C.L.E." is utterly enjoyable and just plain fun.
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