Kingsman: The Secret Service (2014) Movie Review

Official Kingsman The Secret Service Poster

On the lead up to Kingsman: The Golden Circle coming out later this month, I have decided to go back in time and share my thoughts on the first installment. It has been three years since the theaters played The Secret Service, which was written and directed by Matthew Vaughn (X-Men: The First Class). The film follows the troubled story of Eggsy, a young man whose decisions in life are a bit dubious, to say the least and an international spy agency comprised of skilled and resourceful British gentleman who kick ass (Kick Ass was also a movie directed by Vaughn).

Official Kingsman The Secret Service Promotional Banner showcasing a variety of weapons

Brought to life by Taron Egerton, the character of Eggsy feels human and fleshed out; once he meets Kingsman operative Colin Firth’s Harry Hart (who owes his life to Eggsy’s father), Eggsy understands that manners make the man. Samuel L. Jackson is great in this as well, playing Valentine, a twisted tech genius with a lisp who is sure he is in possession of a worldwide cure. The cast is stellar overall; Michael Caine and Mark Strong both making significant contributions to the narrative and being integral to the plot.

Kingsman Banner with Michael Caine, Colin Firth, Taron Egerton, Sofia Boutella and Samuel L.Jackson

This was the movie that launched Sofia Boutella’s acting career, sky rocketing her to the likes of Start Trek and The Mummy; here, she played Gazelle, a ruthless martial artist who has blades for legs. The film is explosive and bombastic but also manages to remain stylish and polished, at the same time. Who would have guessed that a shock absorption umbrella is a Kingsman’s weapon of choice? The action sequences are incredibly crafted, remarkably choreographed and outstandingly performed (church scene, anyone?).

Still of Colin Firth while shooting the infamous church scene in Kingsman

The cinematography is ace and the camera work is in a class all by itself; the way the camera (sometimes shaky) furiously moves through the complex action set pieces, following the actors’ movement is extraordinary. Kingsman: The Secret Service reinvigorated R rated movies, thanks to its brutal and gory depiction of action. This films’ success was also a stepping stone for Deadpool to get green lighted, reassuring FOX that R rated movies can be successful, if done right.

Still of Taron Egerton and Michael Caine toasting in Kingsman

Kingsman is a film that pays homage to classic spy movies (Bond 007 being an obvious example) and pumps new energy into its heart, revamping the genre and ultimately resulting in a fresh first entry in what would soon become a franchise. With that being said, I give this movie a B+.

Kingsman: The Golden Circle promises to go bigger on the spectacle part, introducing the audience to the Statesman, the US cousin of the Kingsman. With the addition of Channing Tatum, Julianne Moore, Halle Barry, Pedro Pascal and Jeff Bridges you are in for a treat. Oh, and Matthew Vaughn will remain as director, so expect even more gadgets!

What about you? Are you fond of Kingsman: The Secret Service? Are you looking forward to its sequel, The Golden Circle? Jump into the comments´ section down below and share your thoughts.