The Man From U.N.C.L.E.- Movie Review

Rating: C

The Man From U.N.C.L.E. stars Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer in a throwback type spy thriller. I really didn't have many expectations going into this film. Armie Hammer is notorious for being in absolute clunkers so if anything, I expected this Guy Ritchie directed flick to be near if not total garbage. Luckily, I left the theater happily surprised.

I had tons of fun with this movie. The plot was very routine. Two spies come together to stop evil people from destroying the world. It's elementary and has been done time and time again. Yet, this unique spin made it very enjoyable. Ritchie took elements from classic spy films and blended them with current action standards. At times, this balance worked seamlessly and the film ultimately benefited from it. Yet, when modern-like action sequences and fights took place, the film suffered. There's a scene in this film where the camera shakes so much that you can barely see the fight that is taking place. Besides that, the retro style car chases and action sequences were done beautifully. Those were highly notable scenes and they really wowed the audience.

I really enjoyed Henry Cavill performance as Napoleon Solo. He felt like he was ripped right out of a classic spy film and placed in this. He worked very well and his enthusiasm was incredible. Cavill's charisma resonated throughout the film. I also think Armie Hammer did exceptionally well in The Man From U.N.C.L.E. When you get used to his Russian accent, you really find interest in his performance. The physicality he brought was great and he was great at selling emotion. The chemistry between Cavill and Hammer was extremely well done. Together, they brought tons of laughs, great fights, and a ultimately charming friendship. Both of these guys did fine jobs and I hope a sequel does follow just to see them together again. Alicia Vikander was also fun to watch in this film as well. I also enjoyed Hugh Grant, yet he was barely in it. I wish we saw him in more scenes.

My gripe with this film is that for the first half, it's a funny spy film. It's tons of fun and you really enjoy it. Then the second half of the movie comes and the laughs stop. This film really forgets what it's suppose to be. All of a sudden, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. attempts to be a dramatic, action film. It really lost me and it took a lot away from the movie as a whole. Don't get me wrong, Guy Ritchie directed a beautiful looking film. If you are just considering looks, this film is in the upper echelon of this year's releases. Yet, when you consider how this film suddenly turns bland, it becomes a very average movie.

When deciding between this and Straight Outta Compton this weekend, I'd recommend Straight Outta Compton. Yet, after you see that, consider coming back to see The Man From U.N.C.L.E. It's not a bad film by any means. If you want a great looking movie, check this out. If you want mindless entertainment, this is the film for you. If you don't pay attention to the plot and just lose yourself in the action, you'll enjoy The Man From U.N.C.L.E. But don't go into this expecting a great spy thriller. Just go in expecting a fun, campy, throwback to traditional spy flicks.