Score: 3.5/5 stars 
The first truly entertaining movie of the year is here in the form of the cheeky, fast-paced and fun “Kingsman: The Secret Service.”
The movie is about a spy organization led by Arthur, played by Michael Caine, called “Kingsman” who masquerade as tailors. Colin Firth’s spy character Harry Hart sets out to train young apprentices, of which only one can become a Kingsman, as a mad genius threatens humanity. The outsider among the trainees is our main character, petty thief Eggsy, played by Taron Egerton. Samuel L. Jackson also stars as the crazy tech genius Valentine.
Firth and Caine are as great and dapper as ever. Firth hasn’t done roles like this as of late, so it’s a welcome change of pace to show off his range with some serious action film chops.
The two real standouts in this film are newcomer Taron Egerton and Samuel L. Jackson. Egerton is insanely charming and carries his first big movie effortlessly. His character is one the audience can have compassion for and care about, and it’s all because of his pitch-perfect performance. He’s truly relatable, endearing and gives the movie a nice youthful boost.
Samuel L. Jackson’s villainous turn garners tons of laughs. Valentine isn’t a typical villain in any sense. Jackson is basically playing himself, but as a megalomaniac with a very entertaining lisp.
What this movie does better than any other movie released this year is action. The action is simply spectacular. With the help of special effects, the gory cartoon-like action thrills and sometimes is a little much, but nonetheless adds to the film’s comedy.
The film also cleverly pokes fun at its own genre, with references to James Bond and other old spy movies. At times, the film is so self-aware it becomes a satire, parodying the cheesier aspects of its genre and those older films. At one point, a character even utters “this ain’t that kind of movie.
“Kingsman: The Secret Service” just works. It combines action and comedy almost perfectly. The movie is surprisingly well-rounded with dramatic moments that really land, mostly because of the actors’ great performances.
This movie knows what it is and is thoroughly enjoyable. “Kingsman: The Secret Service” is a refreshing and fun ride with a well-deserved R rating.