WORTHY ACTION FLICK | 'Atomic Blonde'
'Atomic Blonde' tells the story of an undercover MI6 agent who is sent to Berlin during the Cold War to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and recover a missing list of double agents.
This is an action film that highlights the purpose of good scriptwriting, giving audiences more than just a 'hero' running from a scene with a vaguely shocked expression. It also proves that women can hold their own, and that sexuality is fluid - as seen in Charlize Theron's bisexual Lorraine Broughton. It's truly a film of the modern age, showing what filmmakers are truly capable of if they actually dare to make such films.
It would be unfair to say Broughton is a female combination of James Bond and Jason Bourne, because she's so much more than that. There's much more depth to her character than the dazzling action sequences (especially the one-shot on the staircase, and the jump out of a window with the extension cord, drinks at the bar, and working as an undercover agent). Director David Leitch - one half of the directing team behind 'John Wick' and 'Deadpool 2', highlights her character on screen, enabling not only her strong independence, but her sensitive side, too.
What Leitch also does is stays away from varied camera techniques, keeping it steady throughout - unlike that seen in the Bourne films, which tend to make viewers feel nauseous with its hand-held camera technique. Despite the film being a little cliche at times, it proves to be a film that's ranks above many in it's genre.
Berlin in the 1980s is the perfect time and place to host a spy-thriller, and a film of this tone. While it can be dark and moody, there's nothing stopping it from bringing to light some comedic moments; this is added to by the plethora of music from the decade, combining perfectly with the action onscreen.
'Atomic Blonde' is not what it is advertised to be, and this is a good thing. The audience is given so much more than the snippets shared in the trailer. In its hyper-stylised manner, 'Atomic Blonde' is an experience in itself and one that won't be forgotten.
If you're looking for an action-packed film with a strong female lead, a kickass soundtrack and costumes that impress, this one is for you.
'Atomic Blonde' is released in Australian cinemas on August 3, and in the UK on August 9.
