I Spy Hilarity! My Review Of Paul Feig's SPY...

Say what you will, but when Melissa McCarthy teams up with Paul Feig, it’s comedy gold! For whatever reason, these two just get each other and it shows in everything they do together, usually bringing the laughs by the bucketful. And Spy is no exception.

What I liked about this film was both the chemistry of the cast and the fact that McCarthy isn't doing her regular old schtick. Sure, there are pratfalls and physical comedy throughout, but it’s different this time because McCarthy’s Susan Cooper isn't a one note character, bumbling through life and bordering on idiotic. She’s smart and capable and I really think that McCarthy shines when she’s playing these types of characters. (Those that are similar to the character she plays on Mike & Molly!). I hope she embraces these types of roles and just goes for it in the future. Not everyone of her characters needs to be a moron to be funny.

And seriously, Rose Byrne needs to do more comedy! Between this and last year’s hit, Neighbours, she more than proves that she’s not only sexy, but funny as hell. Of course, she also needs to play more bad guys because she’s just so good at it. Jude Law is great as the suave, but clueless James Bond knockoff, but was a bit underused in the film overall. Miranda Hart and Peter Serafinowicz are absolutely hilarious as a couple of CIA agents to round out the supporting cast. But let’s face it, Jason Statham absolutely steals the show in this one! His take on the macho, stereotypical secret agent is delightful and shows that the action star has great comedic timing, as well as no problem making fun of himself and the genre.

Overall, I had a great time with this film. I found myself laughing out loud on a number of occasions, and even if the plot was slightly generic, it was a great riff on the spy genre as a whole. I am actually going to say that I hope they make a sequel to this film, as I would love another opportunity to catch up with these characters and see what else they have in store for us. Another mission, anyone?

Spy      4/5 

Five Films You've Probably Never Seen...

...But Really Should! (I mean it! You really should check these out... They're awesome!)

The following is list of a few of my favourite, extremely under appreciated films. As the title states, I'm sure that you haven't seen most of, if any of them, although I do highly recommend them all. I will try to stay away from spoilers, as I really think you should check them out without being spoiled. Hopefully you'll be able to find them, somewhere...


The Nines

Released in 2007, the film stars Ryan Reynolds and Melissa McCarthy, although it's not a comedy. Considered part science fiction/fantasy, part psychological thriller and part drama, it was written and directed by John August. Separated into three different vignettes, it tells three very different stories all anchored by the number nine. Reynolds and McCarthy play various characters with differing relationships in each of the parts that all come together in the end. An interesting take on spirituality, this is one of the films that I knew nothing about going in, but was completely blown away by it.


Muriel's Wedding

Released in 1994, this film stars Toni Collette and Rachel Griffiths. An Australian film, it tells the story of Muriel Heslop and her journey to find herself. Through various means, some not entirely legal, Muriel discovers who she is, and more importantly, the person she wants to become. It's an uplifting, chick-flick, of epic proportions, but one that I think everyone will understand and enjoy. A coming of age story for those of
us who came into our own in the 90's.


Noises Off!

Released in 1992, the film was directed by Peter Bogdanovich. Based on the play of the same name, written by Michael Fran, it tells the story of the "play within a play" antics of a theatre troupe and it's long and painful road to Broadway. Starring Michael Cain, Carol Burnett, Marilu Henner, Christopher Reeve and John Ritter, it is probably the funniest film I have ever seen. The physical comedy is out of this world and you will find yourself laughing out loud at some of their antics. A must watch for anyone with a funny bone.


Waitress

Released in 2007, the film was written and directed by Adrienne Shelly. (Adrienne also has a supporting role in the film, which would be her final performance before she was murdered just three months before the film debuted). Starring Keri Russell, Nathan Fillion and Andy Griffith, it tells the story of Jenna, a waitress trapped in her current life, with dreams of a different future. This is another story of finding yourself and following your heart. Learning that it's never too late to turn things around and live the life that you want.  


Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World

Released in 2012, the film was written and directed by Lorene Scafaria. Starring Steve Carell and Keira Knightley, it tells the story of two people who come together for various reasons, just as the world in about to be destroyed. A story of missed opportunities, righting wrongs, hope, despair and love, it takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotion. A beautifully, touching story that I recommend to anyone who will listen.