Five Reasons To Watch: ‘The Man From U.N.C.L.E.’
The year is 1963 and sworn enemies from Russia and America must team up to stop Victoria Vinciguerra from getting her sly hands on nuclear weapons and technology.
Prepare to be entertained with Guy Ritchie’s fabulous new movie, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. Here’s five reasons why this quirky spy film is a must-see:
- Leading Ladies
Victoria (Elizabeth Debicki) and Gaby (Alicia Vikander) are equal parts deadly and beautiful, and their alluring personalities will pull you in hook, line and sinker. Victoria has the attitude of a villainous Holly Golightly and the looks of Grace Kelly turned bad. She is sixties glamour and deliciously deadly – a true retro femme fatale. Conversely, Gaby is the tomboy turned glamourpuss who must collaborate with Napolean Solo (Henry Cavill) and Illya Kuryakin (Armie Hammer). Gaby is both a little innocent and a little badass, particularly behind the wheel of a car. Both Vikander and Debicki bring beautiful complexity to their respective characters, exuding charm while commanding the audience’s attention.
2. Suave Spies
Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer join forces as the dynamic duo stuck in an unrequited relationship of sorts. Cavill plays a cavalier, charming and occasionally cocky Napoleon while Hammer is the rigid Russian, Illya, who is adamant about always being right. He refuses to be belittled and will engage in any act of heroism where possible. The tension and banter between these two heroes is one of the most entertaining aspects of the film, making the most serious scenes somewhat light-hearted and full of cheek. Both Cavill and Armie do an excellent job, reminding audiences exactly why we fell in love with them at the beginning of their careers.
3. Swinging 60s
While the rise of flower power and geometric prints is not explicitly explored in the film, there is no escape from entering the world of the 60s. It is simply exquisite. From the costumes and colours to the cars and sets, everything about this film screams mid-century chic. The aesthetic is deeply cinematic and rich. Warm earthy tones frame the scenes with mahogany and gold while the music is a mix of Spanish, jazz and swing.
And the fashion! Oh, the fashion! Think big Jackie O sunglasses, mod A-line shifts with vibrant colours and exaggerated prints, finely tailored suits, and slick polished shoes. The Man From U.N.C.L.E. is a sensory explosion of 60s vibes that will leave you wanting more.
4. Spy stunts
Whether it is a car or boat chase, or hand-to-hand combat, the film’s stunts are truly impressive. There is a clever cat and mouse theme underlying the story and even during dire circumstances the film maintains a playful attitude and pokes fun at what is going on. Every action scene is compelling good fun, taking the audience on a journey through the streets of Europe, the middle of the ocean and snowy mountain terrain.
5. Not your average spy film
Seen every type of spy film? Think again. The Man From U.N.C.L.E. is a unique and incredibly clever take on the popular genre. Napoleon and Illya have the gadgets and stealth of a 007 agent, the crafty planning and navigation of Bourne, the cheek of Get Smart, and many playful quips reminiscent of Hitchcockian humour. Showcasing the most exciting elements of any great spy film, it is the perfect balance between heart-pumping action and comedic thrills.
