“The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” Is Exactly What One Can Expect From A Ritchie Film
Director: Guy Ritchie
Rating: 7/10
“The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is based on a true story from the recently declassified files from the British War Department. Directed by Guy Ritchie, the movie revolves around the tale of the first-ever Special Forces Organization formed during World War II by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and a small group of military officials, including the famous author of “James Bond,” Ian Fleming. This top-secret combat unit with crews that are mad ragtags and unorthodox, embarks on a pivotal mission against the Nazis, utilizing unconventional fighting techniques. Their over-the-top and audacious approach not only changed the course of the war but also laid the foundation for the British Special Air Service (SAS) and modern Black Ops warfare.
First things first, this is the most good-looking casting ever. With a lineup that includes Henry Cavill, Alan Ritchson, Alex Pettyfer, Henry Golding, Eiza Gonzalez, and Hero Fiennes Tiffin, the film serves a face-card that will never decline. Initially, this raised concerns for the film as this might lean into becoming a fan service instead of an entertaining and high-value film. However, those worries were unfounded. While the film certainly includes elements of fan service, it is also, in true Guy Ritchie fashion, an entertaining, high-octane Nazi-killing-joy-fest film. The performances from Henry Cavill and Alan Ritchson are among the highlights of the film. Cavill, often associated with his role as Superman, disappears into his character, March-Philips, bringing a new, fun, and fierce persona to the screen. His performance is a refreshing departure from his more stoic roles, and he clearly relishes the opportunity to play a character with more layers and quirks. However, the ones that I really enjoyed the most are Alan Ritchson’s performance and his character, particularly during the action sequences as he was the one that’s being highlighted heavily. Even though the screenplay does not provide enough depth or space for the characters to fully develop, the casts make the most of what they have.
The thing about Guy Ritchie, he has carved out a niche for himself as a director in the realm of “ignore the characterization and enjoy and laugh through the action” films, and “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is an addition to that. Despite being set in the darkest and most devastating time of our history, Ritchie’s storytelling and direction have somehow managed to infuse it with humor and over-the-top action sequences. This film fits seamlessly into his body of work, offering an experience that is both exhilarating and enjoyable. The film serves an over-the-top action scene, with characters killing Nazis with ease as they walk around firing guns without even looking at their targets and somehow never miss a shot---this is the kind of action sequences that you’d expect from a Ritchie film. Most of the exciting and thrilling scenes feature Alan Ritchson’s character killing the Nazis using arrows, knives, and axe. It’s one of the best sequences in the movie, showcasing Ritchson's character's skills and adding a unique flair to the film's action.
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From a historical perspective, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is highly implausible and exaggerated. I don’t think one has ever killed a Nazi in the manner depicted in the movie. However, it’s clear that the movie does not aim to be historically accurate. Instead, it embraces fun and intense action sequences, creating an entertaining experience rather than a factual recounting of events. This approach may not sit well with history buffs looking for an accurate depiction of World War II, but for those who enjoy a good action flick, it works wonderfully.
However, despite these thrilling moments, the movie falls short in terms of storytelling. Their characters are primarily there to kill, and while this may not allow for deep characterization, it is in line with what one expects from a Guy Ritchie film. The characters, while likable and fun, remain largely one-dimensional. They are defined more by their skills and quirks than by any deep-seated motivations or backstories. This somehow gives an impression that Guy Ritchie is playing it safe with “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare”. The film does offer the swag and high-octane action sequences that are Guy Ritchie’s signature, but it does not give enough elements for the characters to be utilized and lacks in storytelling.
In conclusion, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is an action-packed, humorous film that delivers on the promise of entertainment. While it may not be historically accurate or offer deep characterization, it excels in providing a fun and engaging experience. The performances from Henry Cavill and Alan Ritchson stand out, and the film's over-the-top action sequences are a visual treat. If you are a fan of Guy Ritchie's style and enjoy high-octane films, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” is a must-watch. The swagger and high-octane action sequences fans have come to expect from Ritchie are present, but the film lacks the depth and nuance that could have made it truly exceptional. If you are looking for a thoughtful and insightful movie, this is not the film for you. However, if you want to spend your time with a fun and entertaining one, “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare” fits the bill.
