Argylle Movie review: A Stumbling Action Flick with Potential Introduction

Argylle Movie review

Welcome to our review of “Argylle,” the latest action film directed by Matthew Vaughn. In this article, we’ll delve into the plot, characters, and overall quality of the movie. Join us as we explore the strengths and weaknesses of this highly anticipated release. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and let’s dive into the world of “Argylle.”

A Humorous Opening

The film kicks off with a humorous opening scene, where Agent Argylle, portrayed by the talented Henry Cavill, finds himself in a Greek club. He encounters LaGrange, played by Dua Lipa, in a dazzling gold dress. The dance between the two is sultry and captivating.

However, things take a turn when a group of villains open fire, forcing Argylle to spring into action. The banter between the characters is filled with clichés, but it’s hard not to chuckle at their interactions.

A Unique Twist on Spy Novels

The story takes an interesting turn when we meet Elly Conway, played by Bryce Dallas Howard, a successful author who writes the Argylle series. Elly boards a train to visit her mother, but little does she know that she’s about to be caught up in a real-life spy adventure.

Sam Rockwell’s character, Aidan, adds an element of believability to the film, contrasting with the larger-than-life personas of the main characters. The seamless transition between Elly’s perspective and the action scenes is a clever editing trick that adds depth to the storytelling.

Thin Plotting and Missed Opportunities

While the film initially maintains a steady pace, the plot starts to thin out as the story progresses. The script by Jason Fuchs attempts to parody popular spy films like “National Treasure” and the Bourne franchise, but it ultimately falls short in delivering a cohesive and satisfying narrative.

The film’s attempt to connect with Vaughn’s previous works, such as the Kingsman series, feels forced and lacks the punchline that could have made it truly memorable.

Moments of Pleasure and Missed Potential

“Argylle” has its fair share of enjoyable moments. Catherine O’Hara delivers a delightful performance reminiscent of Marlene Dietrich in “Witness for the Prosecution.”

Bryan Cranston also adds amusing beats to his one-note character. However, the film fails to capitalize on these moments of pleasure, leaving the audience longing for more. The visual effects surrounding Alfie the cat could have been better executed, as they appear rough around the edges.

A Struggle to Find its Footing

As the film progresses, it becomes evident that Vaughn struggles to find the right balance between the seriousness of the story and the lightheartedness of its earlier acts.

The attempt to inject meaning and depth into the film falls flat, resulting in a disjointed experience. The climactic hallway set piece, intended to be quirky and operatic, ends up feeling dreary and uninspired. Vaughn’s fight choreography lacks the finesse needed to make the action scenes truly engaging.

Final Words:

In conclusion, “Argylle” is a film with potential that unfortunately falls short of its mark. While it has its moments of humor and enjoyment, the thin plotting and the film’s struggle to find its identity prevent it from becoming a standout action flick.

The performances by the talented cast are commendable, but they are let down by a lackluster script and uneven direction. Ultimately, “Argylle” fails to deliver the punchline that could have made it a memorable parody.

FAQs

Is “Argylle” a comedy or an action film?
“Argylle” falls into the genre of action comedy. It attempts to blend the excitement of action-packed sequences with humorous moments throughout the film.

Are there any standout performances in “Argylle”?
Catherine O’Hara delivers a memorable performance, channeling the spirit of Marlene Dietrich. Bryan Cranston also brings comedic beats to his character, adding some enjoyable moments to the film.

Does “Argylle” connect to Matthew Vaughn’s previous works?
Yes, “Argylle” tries to establish a connection with Vaughn’s previous films, such as the Kingsman series. However, this attempt feels forced and doesn’t add much value to the overall experience of the movie.