Box Office Gold or Bust 'Kingsman: The Golden Circle'

On Thursday, September 21, I saw an early screening of the sequel to the amazing sharp-dressed action-comedy Kingsman. I had high hopes for the movie, since the first was one of my favorite films of all time. Kingsman is known for being high-octane, fun-filled and entertaining. Did The Golden Circle meet my expectations?

Story

We'll jump right in with this review by highlighting what I liked about the story. Don't worry, I won't spoil it for you. Kingsman: the Golden Circle brings back many of our favorite characters from the first film. Gary 'Eggsy' Unwin, the protagonist, makes a return sporting an absolutely dapper three-piece suit. The climate of the story takes little time to dive in head first. Within the first few minutes, you are treated to action. This is very similar to the Kingsman feel and pace that made the first movie so great. If you love action, you will not be disappointed.

The story progresses quickly. It's not the best or most original story ever written, but it was entertaining. The direction of the movie changes several times to keep you interested. Remember that this movie is purely action. It has high comedy elements, but at its root, it is action. So if you're looking for a "007" mystery feel, this will not be present. Instead, the movie decides to erase all suspense and mystery by answering all your questions within just a few scenes. The overall feel of the film is great. Special effects are top notch and don't seem fake. There is an over-arching feel of farfetchedness that sticks out, but that's more of a comedy trait that I love so much.

Delivery

Kingsman 2 does a great job with delivering a worthwhile experience. It builds off the foundation laid by the first film, but does a great job with creating a unique feel for individuality from the first. The characters feel progressed and like experts now. Long gone are the training days for our main character. Eggsy has matured and is cunning, charming, suave, and an overall bad ass.

Within moments we are introduced to the antagonist. Of course, they have an evil plan and we know that the Kingsman agents will somehow overcome it. However, it is not so simple. The story does a great job with making the antagonist's goals and motivations realistic, or as realistic as it could be in the given situation. The antagonist isn't overly powerful or annoying. I'd say that's a plus for this movie.

Quirks

In traditional secret agent style, the movie has an incredible wow factor. The gadgets make a statement when used, however, I would have liked to see more. The action-based fight scenes also make a return. A stunning use of CGI, slow-motion, and amazing stunts make the scenes fun to watch. They are well choreographed and make an attempt to keep it fresh when it comes to the acrobatics on screen. In many ways, Kingsman feels like it deserves to be seen twice. This is what I call a double watch. Meaning that after watching once in theaters, I wouldn't mind seeing it again. Jokes are sometimes subtle, and the action sequences take a second look to truly appreciate. The characters are carefully crafted and feel unique.

In the end, Kingsman 2 feels similar to the first. The same great features return to the second and it turns up the comedy and action all the way to eleven. The general tone of the film is set quickly and makes it worthwhile, if you pay attention.

Verdict

Whats the verdict? I would say that Kingsman 2 is an attractive choice for your weekend viewing experience. I wouldn't say it's a must watch, but it would not be a waste of money if you see it once or twice. I thoroughly enjoyed Kingsman. Its action scenes are great and the amazing comedy is amped up for the sequel. This does not mean that Kingsman is without its flaws. I wasn't overly impressed with the southern accents, but it's tolerable. Needless to say, it's a comedy! It was better than similar action movies released this year, such as Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and Wonder Woman. For that, I'd say go watch it. Strap in and relax. Kingsman 2: The Golden Circle is a fun time, just leave your kids at home. It is NOT child friendly.

Final Score - 8.5/10

#Kingsman, #action, #Fall movies #boxOffice #Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, #Wonder Woman, #theGoldenCircle

Here is a trailer for the film.