Warning: this post contains spoilers.
Like. Damn.
It was not entirely what I expected, but in the best way. I vaguely knew going into it that it was based on a comic book, though I didn't make any effort to read said comic book. Actually, there were times when I had to remind myself it was based on a comic. Gratuitous violence and larger-than-life characters? Check. Super cool spy technology? Big check. It's the spy movie that doesn't take itself too seriously (see: Colin Firth as kick-ass spy). What I mean by that is it's got the big spy movie plot (clearly defined battle between good and evil, training montage, a double agent-sort of), but it's the little details that make it really special (special in my opinion). For example:
-Eggsy is openly affectionate to his baby sister.
-Eggsy's mother forgives herself for trying to hurt the baby.
-The comment Harry makes about public technology catching up with spy tech.
Early on Eggsy's (Taron Egerton) character is clearly outlined: he's had a rough upbringing in South London, but he's intelligent, he loves and wants to protect his mother and baby sister, and he's loyal to his friends. All these traits are consistent and evident throughout the movie without creating a flat character. He's very likable and damn handsome.
Although the secret service known as Kingsman is a gentlemen's organization, women are not completely excluded. Baby steps. Eggsy and a female operative form a bond quite quickly which only grows deeper as the plot progresses. The filmmakers could easily have developed this into a romantic bond, but the fact that they didn't seems to be widely appreciated. (I'm not going to pretend they wouldn't have made an attractive power couple though.)
There were definitely parts I didn't like though, but it's because the nasty characters were so well-written and well-acted, not because of plot issues. Selfish, mean villains and comic book level violence aren't really my cup of tea, but they certainly served the story. Although, Samuel L. Jackson's lisp was downright distracting.
Like I said, the major plot was a bit generic (but not entirely), and didn't interest me as much as the characters and sub-plots and details. They're what really moved the story along and kept me interested. The mentor-mentee relationship between Harry and Eggsy was simply beautiful. I wish we could have seen more of it.
One of the coolest things about this movie is the bespoke collection of men's clothing, shoes, and accessories by MR PORTER created from the costume design of the movie. Those Black Watch trousers? I don't care that they're made for men, I'd have them tailored for me. And the little Kingsman logo on back of the cufflinks and pocket squares? So simple, so understated, so perfect.
Kingsman: The Secret Service was an overall excellent movie experience, and there's a good chance I'll be treating myself to another trip to the cinema next week to see it again.
Did you see Kingsman? How did you like it? Did you read the comic book? What other good movies have you seen lately?
KB
