Review of Kingsman: The Secret Service (2015) by Barney O — 07 Jul 2017

WHAT I LIKED: 'Kingsman: The Secret Service' is a film so comfortable in its own shoes that you'd be forgiven for mistaking Sofia Boutella's metal legs for slippers, and I suppose that's what comes of a director as experienced and head-strong as Michael Vaughn is by now. Yes this isn't a film that's trying to be anything more than the light-hearted, satirical and slick spy movie it is, and as a result it's just an absolute breeze to watch and it will have you grinning more than any of Vaughn's previous adventures. Why? Well the focus here really is on the snappy whit and fast editing that we saw most similarly in his 'Layer Cake,' but what brings this to life so much more is the dazzle of a brilliant set of characters, and an equally good cast to bring them to life. Yes this isn't just good fun - it's fun with a heart, and that means you're always as engaged as you are thoroughly entertained and amused.

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: It's nothing particularly profound, but that is partly what makes it so great.

VERDICT: For what it is it's down-right perfect: light and fun entertainment that has you grinning from the off and throughout. Take it for what it is and you'll have an absolute ball.