The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015) - 3/5

This movie is a by-the-numbers spy film that is reminiscent of both Mission: Impossible and James Bond. It unfortunately doesn’t utilize any of the dark antics or snappy editing that the director Guy Richie is known for. The premise has a lot of promise, but the constant bickering among the central three characters drags the film down considerably. Still, it has excellent production values and a capable enough plot to carry it through. Also, Henry Cavill’s accent goes in and out, for what it’s worth.

Content warning: brief female nudity

Closest comparison: It’s like Where Eagles Dare by way of Skyfall.

Setting: Adventure
Plot: Espionage
Tone: Action

Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves - 4/5

This movie is so much better than it has any reason to be. The inter-character chemistry among the main party isn’t anything spectacular and the narrative is long and meandering. But the story never gets ahead of itself and all of the characters endear themselves to the audience so well that it carries the whole film. All of the D&D specific lore is either background set dressing for eagle-eyed fans or explained well enough that even the casual, disinterested audience members will understand what’s going on.

Closest comparison: It’s like a mix of Logan Lucky, Labyrinth, and Stardust.

Setting: Fantasy
Plot: Heist
Tone: Comedy

The Gentlemen - 4/5

This is the slick new crime action comedy from Guy Richie, and if you like his other films you’ll probably like this one, too. It’s a funny and suave take on the British criminal underground scene with a pert editing style that keeps the pace upbeat and moving. Unlike many of his other films, however, this one starts off with a lot of exposition, but once it finds its footing it does not disappoint. The actors all seem to be having a blast and the ending wraps everything up so neatly that it’s hard to find fault with the slower beginning. It’s great to see Guy Richie back doing the modern gangster films he does best.

Closest comparison: It’s like The Godfather by way of Baby Driver, but without the musical choreography.

Setting: Crime
Plot: Blackmail
Tone: Action Comedy