Agent Cody Banks for adults: a modern James Bond film

Rating: 7/10 (13 July 2015)

Kingsman: The secret Service is a wonderful new film in the spy- action genre. The film is directed by Matthew Vaughn, who has directed some interesting stuff in the past, including X-men: First Class, Stardust and Kick-Ass. The film stars Taron Egerton as Eggsy, and Colin Firth as Harry Hart.
This film feels like an early James Bond flick, with all the wacky villains and plots one would expect from such a film. However, it really has modernized the message and approach, with extreme, if goofy, violence and lots of modern gadgets and goodies. There is a lot of charm in this film, and it makes me feel like a young boy again, watching flicks like Thunderbirds or Agent Cody Banks or Spy Kids.
Even so, this is not a film for children. It just has that slight fantastical feel that many children's spy films are graced with.
There is a ton to enjoy in this film. The spy genre is done well, with intrigue, gadgetry, and Bond-esque suave/cool. The actors are superb, with Samuel L. Jackson making an appearance as a particularity interesting character. There was also good, taught emotional drive throughout the film. I was superbly impressed with this film.
On a minor note, the film did have some corny/kitschy elements which did not always work. There was one scene in particular near the beginning, in a log cabin, which I thought was a bit much. These scenes were relatively small in number, however, and did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the film.
This movie was great, and deserves to be cherished as an excellent new addition to the spy genre. I look forward to more from all the actors involved, and especially Mr. Vaughn. I would love to see this become a James Bond style series of films as well.
This film is highly recommended. Just don't show it to your kids please. 8/10