Argylle is a meta spy-thriller about author Elly Conway (Bryce Dallas Howard) who writes a best-selling espionage series alongside her cat, Alfie. Things are going fine until one day Conway is approached by spy, Aidan (Sam Rockwell), who explains her books mirror a spy organization with Argylle (Henry Cavill) as the central character. Can this secret agent operation find a balance between what is real and fake?
Directed by Kingsman director, Matthew Vaughn, Argylle matches its playful, entertaining mix of humor, espionage, and controlled chaos. The film makes fun of the familiar spy tropes of over-the-top explosions, daring stunts, and fancy gadgets to break the fourth wall of how ridiculous yet fun they are. The merge of the reality of Conway and Aidan’s adventures with the fantasy of her novel is presented in a hilarious way as the scenes jump back and forth within the mind of Conway to finish the secret mission.
This is heightened by its impressive cast including Cate Blanchett, Samuel L. Jackson, and Bryan Cranston, who all feel like they’re having fun with their characters. The drawback of Argylle is its 2-hour and 19-minute runtime that is far too drawn out. There are a few scenes that could have been eliminated that would have kept the interest of audiences, however, the ending does reel viewers back in.
Despite this, Argylle is a fun ride that serves little purpose other than pure entertainment with its sharp humor and charismatic cast. If you’re in the mood for a fun spy thriller, look no further than Argylle. While it might lose interest in the final act, the story is so ridiculously entertaining as it does not take itself seriously blending reality and fantasy. Also, cat fans will sure to enjoy it for its focus on the adorable, Alfie.
ARGYLLE is in Theaters on February 2nd, 2024.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
Ashley Bell (Contributing Editor) is an Orlando native who loves watching movies. Her favorite genres include comedies, thrillers and sci-fi.Click Here to check out Ashley's Articles.