The First Film in the "Kingsman" Franchise

Rating: Null/10 (28 December 2015)

Based on the comic book "The Secret Service," the blockbuster film "Kingsman" enjoyed tremendous popularity in its theatrical release. What is the appeal of this film that may lead to a "Kingsman" franchise motion picture with endless sequels?
First, there is the humor that transcends the typical James Bond suave and supremely confident British snobbery. Second, there is Colin Firth, who was perfect in the role of Harry Hart (or Galahad), who is the linchpin in the non-political secret organization of Kingsmen. Third, there is the outstanding cinematography that included well-chosen location filming in the UK.
The film was neither a rip-off nor a parody of a James Bond film. It sought to distill the theme of overpopulation and global warning into a profound social commentary. It was in this area that the film foundered, especially with the cardboard cutout villain character. Although well performed by Samuel L. Jackson, the role was conceived an an over-the-top and nearly farcical character.
An inadvertent revelation from the film is the theme of the loss of basic human values in the twenty-first century. The villainous Valentine was using technology to turn humans against one another in endless slaughter to reduce global population. But a casual glance at our world indicates that it would not take sophisticated technology to create a civilization in this kind of decline. Although the film is a hodgepodge of styles, it nonetheless raises provocative values about our world. Some of the scenes, such as the carnage in the church, were shocking. But are they really much different from what exists in our top news stories?