KINGSMAN THE SECRET SERVICE
Gary “Eggsy” Unwin (Taron Egerton), whose late father secretly worked for a spy organization, lives in a South London housing estate and seems headed for a life behind bars. However, dapper agent Harry Hart (Colin Firth) recognizes potential in the youth and recruits him to be a trainee in the secret service. Meanwhile, villainous Richmond Valentine (Samuel L. Jackson) launches a diabolical plan to solve the problem of climate change via a worldwide killing spree.
This is a slick and stylish version of Bond minus the camp, laced with humour and grace. Kingsman the Secret Service is a modern day spy adventure which still has that old-fashioned feel about it, making it pretty smart and savvy.
See If You Liked: BOND
INHERENT VICE
In a California beach community, private detective Larry “Doc” Sportello (Joaquin Phoenix) tends to work his cases through a smoky haze of marijuana. One day, Shasta, a former lover, arrives out of the blue to plead for Doc’s help; it seems that Shasta’s current beau, rich real-estate tycoon Mickey Wolfmann, has a wife who may be plotting to commit him to a mental hospital. When Mickey and Shasta both disappear, Doc navigates a psychedelic world of surfers, stoners and cops to solve the case.
Set in a 60’s psychedelic haze at 2 and half hours long you may suffer a numb bum but with stars such as Joaquin Phoenix, Josh Brolin, Owen Wilson, Benicio Del Toro and Reese Witherspoon your guaranteed a whole host of laughs in fact the humour and violence is intoxicating. I can’t quite put my finger on it but the hedonistic madness will keep you glued to your seat.
See If You Liked: To Live and Die in L.A., Chinatown.
SON OF A GUN
Locked up for a minor crime, 19 year old JR (Brenton Thwaites) quickly learns the harsh realities of prison life. Protection, if you can get it, is paramount. JR soon finds himself under the watchful eye of Australia’s most notorious criminal, Brendan Lynch (Ewan McGregor). But protection comes at a price; Lynch and his crew have plans for their young protégée. Upon release, JR must help secure Lynch’s freedom, staging a daring prison break and joining his crew as they plan a gold heist that promises to deliver millions. However, as things start to go wrong, a deadly game of cat and mouse ensues. JR finds himself unsure of whom he can trust and on a collision course with his former mentor.
For the full review click here: http://www.flavourmag.co.uk/review-son-of-a-gun/
PICK OF THE WEEK: INHERENT VICE