There is a lot to like in this movie. First, it is set in an idealised version of the swinging Sixties with cool fashion, the Lambrettas, the music and white telephones. There is Rome, evil tycoons, Berlin and Checkpoint Charlie. The CIA, KGB and MI6 jostle for space with a nuclear scientist who has vanished, his beautiful daughter behind the iron curtain, dirty bombs and shipping magnates. And best of all there is Hugh Grant as the man from U.N.C.L.E.
Based on the American television show of the same name, Guy Ritchie’s film has got the sights and sounds of the Sixties just how we imagine it. Incidentally Sebastian Moran, Professor Moriarty’s second-in-command makes an appearance in The Man from U.N.C.L.E. novels. Napoleon Solo, the light-fingered reluctant CIA recruit, crosses swords with Illya Kuryakin from the KGB. Their goal is the same — to rescue nuclear physicist, Teller, from the clutches of the Vinciguerra family who are using him to build a bomb and rule the world. Solo and Kuryakin form an uneasy alliance and with Teller’s daughter, Gaby, and try to infiltrate the Vinciguerras.
While not as fast-paced as Kingsman: The Secret Service , The Man from U.N.C.L.E. has a charm of its own. The cast is terribly good looking. From Henry Cavill as Solo (is that the inspiration for Han?) to Armie Hammer as Illya and Alicia Vikander as Gaby, they all look good (Gaby’s shades are to die for). It is nice to see Hugh Grant (he plays Waverly from the MI 6) after ages.
Don’t go to The Man from U.N.C.L.E. expecting gritty realism and a nuanced view of the geo-political situation. Watch the film if you seek escapist fare and you will be satiated. Get a suit or that orange sundress already!
