Argylle (2024) Movie Review

Dazzling Opening Act: Humor Meets Espionage

Prepare for a cinematic joyride with Matthew Vaughn's latest creation, "Argylle." The film kicks off with a dazzling sequence where Agent Argylle (Henry Cavill) infiltrates a lively Greek club, encountering the enigmatic LaGrange (Dua Lipa). Their sultry dance, set against a backdrop of bullets, sets the stage for a rollercoaster of humor and action. This isn't your typical spy flick - it's a wild ride!

Cardboard Cutouts to Life: Elly Conway's Literary Playground

The characters, seemingly cut from a spy novel, come to life as creations of the talented author Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard). Currently weaving the fifth novel in the bestselling Argylle series, Elly's imagination becomes the epicenter of a hilarious yet thrilling adventure.

Spoofing Brilliance: A Witty Unfolding

Jason Fuchs' script keeps the pace brisk, guiding us through a spoof that pokes fun at iconic films like "National Treasure," "The Lost City," and even Vaughn's own Kingsman series. The film takes an unexpected turn when Elly (Bryce Dallas Howard) faces writer's block, embarking on a journey that blurs the lines between fiction and reality.

Merging Realities: A Spy Tale with a Twist

Enter Aidan (Sam Rockwell), a believable spy, not the typical dashing hero. As Elly's story unfolds, assassins led by Director Ritter (Bryan Cranston) believe she holds the key to classified information. The film cleverly uses POV shots and editing tricks to merge Rockwell's face into Cavill's, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.

From Laughter to Lament: The Film's Dynamic Shift

While the initial plot holds up well, "Argylle" takes an unexpected turn from a spoof to a conventional spy film. The star-studded cast, including Samuel L Jackson and Richard E. Grant, adds flair, but a lackluster script leaves them with thankless roles. The film's lighting and editing take a jagged turn, accompanied by bombastic Beatles tracks, creating a visual and auditory spectacle.

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Moments of Brilliance: O'Hara, Cranston, and Alfie the Cat

Amid the turmoil, Catherine O'Hara shines with a Marlene Dietrich-esque performance, while Bryan Cranston injects amusing beats into his character. Scenes featuring Elly's cat, Alfie, add an endearing touch, even with some rough VFX around the feline companion.

Narrative Unraveled: A Rollercoaster with Downhill Momentum

As the twists unravel, the film loses its comedic charm, struggling with inconsistent shifts between color and black-and-white photography. A once-lively Sam Rockwell turns into a romantic lead, losing the vibrancy that made his character captivating. The grand hallway set piece, meant to be quirky and operatic, falls flat, highlighting Vaughn's struggle to navigate the film's conclusion.

Argylle Movie Trailer

A Missed Punchline: "Argylle" Falls Short

"Argylle" had the potential to be a sharp-witted parody, but it seemingly grows weary of the joke before delivering the punchline. Vaughn's attempt to connect with the Kingsman franchise leaves the film in a state of anonymity, missing the chance to leave a lasting impression.

Final Verdict: Forgettable Yet Flawed Fun

In conclusion, "Argylle" provides moments of joy amidst its flaws. The blend of humor, espionage, and unexpected twists keeps you engaged, even if it falters in delivering a cohesive narrative. While not a masterpiece, it's an entertaining watch for those seeking a unique take on the spy genre. Grab your popcorn and buckle up for a ride filled with laughter, intrigue, and a touch of the unexpected!