Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
It's April, and we are edging ever closer to the summer movie season. While we still have to wait for blockbusters like "The Fall Guy" and "Inside Out 2," a big-budget movie in theaters now has that summer flare.
"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" tells the true story of a group of covert soldiers trying to open the Atlantic Ocean so the United States could join the war in Europe. Yes, this story actually happened, but I have a strong feeling the filmmakers took some liberties when retelling the tale. But why let truths get in the way of telling a great story?
Here are some reasons "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" seized my attention like a well-aimed sniper shot — and one reason that shot missed the bull's-eye.
Ritchie in fine form
Guy Ritchie's directorial prowess shines bright in "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare." With his trademark flair for the dramatic and penchant for stylish storytelling, Ritchie delivers a cinematic experience equally thrilling and stylish. Every moment is meticulously crafted to keep audiences engaged and committed to the story and characters, from the frenetic shootouts to the quippy dialogue, creative edits and playful timelines.
Ritchie's distinct style comes across brilliantly in the wartime tale. His choice of music, quick cuts and deadpan humor made for a fun trip to the theater.
Surprisingly funny
One of the delights of "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is its impeccable sense of humor. Amid the chaos of war, Ritchie has found a way to make us laugh. I don't think the filmmaker took the seriousness of the mission lightly nor the danger these soldiers placed themselves in — but this movie was meant to entertain and put a smile on your face.
The humor in the film adds depth to the characters and underscores the absurdity of their circumstances.
A good time
The true magic of "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" lies in the chemistry between its cast members. Led by a charismatic ensemble, the actors breathe life into their respective roles with a camaraderie that feels palpable on screen.
From the banter between comrades to the simmering tension between adversaries, the chemistry between the actors elevates the film to new heights. Each member is clearly having a good time, which resonates with the audience. The actors and their uncanny interactions make us care about these characters and leave us wanting to see more.
Violence is its own character
Discussing "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is impossible without addressing its unflinching portrayal of violence.
For lack of a better term, the movie is uber-violent. Stabbings, shootings, torture and almost everything else is in this movie. The violence is cartoonish instead of overly gory, but it is constant — and brutal.
We'll discuss that in the next section, but what stands out is the nonchalant way characters carry out the violence.
The movie is an overly dramatized version of actual events. As such, I have to assume the real "heroes" did not take such delight in slaughtering droves of human beings. The disregard for human life in the film can be jarring.
What parents should know
"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is rated R and has definitely earned that rating.
While the film contains minimal strong language, with two instances of the F-word (one of which is easy to miss if you aren't paying attention), the level of violence may be too intense for many viewers. There are no explicit sexual scenes, but the pervasive violence and mature themes may be unsettling for some audiences.
As mentioned, the violence was not as graphic or real as in other World War II movies like "Saving Private Ryan" and "Fury," but there was a great deal of blood, and the body count was too high for me to number.
Conclusion
"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is an entertaining wartime thriller that delivers action and humor. The film is a stylish and entertaining romp through the shadows of espionage and warfare, with Ritchie at the helm and a talented ensemble bringing their A-game.
While its portrayal of violence may not be for everyone. But, for those willing to brave the storm, it's a movie with thrills, laughs and an intriguing story — the kind of movie for which movie theaters were made.
"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" is officially rated R for strong violence throughout and some language.
