The Spy Who Dumped Me” Provides Action and Comedy with a Hint of Romance
By Liz Lopez
Rating: B-/C+
“The Spy Who Dumped Me” is fun from the start as viewers slowly learn about two 30 – something best friends who have known each other forever and remain friends despite having some radically different personalities. The regular pair of best buds find themselves in an unexpected situation (as can be seen in the trailers for this film) and unfortunately, some of the espionage storyline co-written by director Susanna Fogel (“Life Partners”) and David Iserson (“SNL,” “Mozart in the Jungle,” “Mr. Robot”) is pretty predictable, leaving the audience able to anticipate some of the next scenes. If you do not mind predictability, I highly recommend going to see the film for the comedy from this buddy story between Audrey (Mila Kunis) and Morgan (Kate McKinnon), laughing at how silly the espionage scenes are and of course, to see Sam Heughan in particular (the handsome “Jamie Fraser” character from the “Outlander” television series).
There is solid chemistry between Kunis and McKinnon, and the film delivers several comedic scenes to cause some laughs, “oohs,” or “aahhs” for the audience, a healthy dose of action (some of which you should dispense with what is believable at the moment) and a romantic subplot for Audrey, initially with Drew (Justin Theroux, “The Girl on the Train”) and with Sebastian (Heughan). The latter romance falls a bit flat, but could it be written on purpose just to be a teaser?
McKinnon (“Ghostbusters,” “Rough Night,” SNL), is excellent as the over the top friend who does not know how or when to hold back, if at all. The script for “The Spy Who Dumped Me” gives McKinnon’s acting range a chance to shine and participate in some bloody physical comedy, as well as gags not to be named here. Kunis’ comedic experience is perfect as she and McKinnon easily joke with each other, making their characters more believable as having a close bond.
Two other actresses not to miss are Ivanna Sakhno (“Pacific Rim Uprising”) as Nadedja, an acrobatic assassin who has some wonderful lines to deliver, either funny and or intensely scary as well. You may not recognize her, but be on the lookout for Sebastian’s boss Wendy (“Agent Scully” Gillian Anderson). Her scenes are few, but enjoyable, especially when Morgan is involved with her. No spoilers here!!
“The Spy Who Dumped Me” showcases Fogel’s talent as an action filmmaker, featuring some great fight choreography and stunts (a huge cast is listed), as well as excellent work from cinematographer Barry Peterson (“Game Night” and “Central Intelligence” for a good reference point).
It is great to see the many women who anchor the film, both on screen and behind the camera, in “The Spy Who Dumped Me.” It is a welcome change from the super -hero entertainment that many filmgoers have already seen this summer and no doubt many BFFs will enjoy viewing together.
“The Spy Who Dumped Me” begins playing in U.S. theaters nationwide on Thursday evening, August 2ndand opens nationwide on Friday, August 3rd. It is 117 minutes long and is rated R for violence, language throughout, some crude sexual material and graphic nudity.
Source: Lionsgate