Uneven, but certainly not dull

Rating: Null/10 (9 August 2015)

Sitting down to watch "Kingsman: The Secret Service", I had no prior knowledge of the movie except that it was a modern film take on the idea of the British secret service. I don't know what I was expecting, but I didn't expect what I saw. I am not saying that this is a terrible movie. The production values are slick, there are some exhilarating action sequences, and the movie thankfully does not take things completely seriously. However, the comedy and the action really does not mix. The comedy is really goofy at times, while the action is really hard core at times, and the two extremes don't really mix. And at over two hours in length, the movie goes on too long. (I should add that even at that length, there are a few minor plot gaps that suggest some linking footage was cut out or not filmed at all.) But as I said in my summary line, I was not bored. This movie is a matter of taste; I can see why some people would not like it. Who would like it? I think those who are fans of the sometimes over the top action/comedy cinema coming out of Hong Kong would best appreciate this film. You've been warned (or given a recommendation.)