TESTOSTERONE = GOODNESS
This is just my humble opinion, but I’m tired of watching beta cocks take the lead in action films. Timothee Chalamet was perfectly cast in Wonka, as the lead. But having him play Paul Atreides in Dune was not believable. As Hollywood has kowtowed to the DEI narrative, action movie stars have become more feminine.
In 2015, Hollywood Studio, Paramount, acquired the rights to the book The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. It gets a bit fuzzy from there, but between 2015 and 2023, Jerry Bruckheimer and Guy Richie got involved, along with a lot of A-star talent. By that time, Paramount was history, and Black Bear was in the driver’s seat, handling financing in sales. This movie was filmed entirely in Turkey. So, if you’re wondering, this flic is an independent film, and like most films, made outside of Hollywood. I have a feeling that’s why it’s unapologetically tough.
Even the women are tough
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is based upon the true Top Secret Mission: Operation Postmaster. I’d love to tell you more about the plot, but it would just ruin the movie for you. What you’re seeing on screen is Guy Richie’s pumped-up version of this story, with more action, and more blood. From start to finish, this movie keeps you entertained and laughing. This movie was a bit nostalgic for me. It reminded me of the old Schwarzenegger 90’s type movies, where muscles actually mattered. Is it just me, but don’t you get tired of a 100 lb toothpick girl throwing a 280 lb man across the room?
As for character types, every character lightly revolves around a Type Eight “Challenger,” and even that would be a stretch. These characters have a mission and will unapologetically break the rules to get it done. This movie doesn’t have characters contemplating their identity midway through a gunfight, thank god.
This movie is not for children. There’s a lot of blood and grotesque violence. It’s also not for snowflake liberals who will be offended by “toxic” masculinity.
GRADE: A
Steve Young
