My Spy has more going for it than the wrestler-hero and his diminutive co-star. It takes the buddy-bonding theme to an unexpected crescendo of smart-alecky dialogues and engaging confrontational situations between little Sophie(Chloe Coleman) and big JJ(Dave Bautista).
The direction is razor-sharp and the plot wisely retains its self-directed sense of humour even when Bautista takes to the dancefloor with steps that seem stolen from Sunny Deol.
A gauche screen presence is converted into a source of fun. Bautista, who is a co-producer on the project, knows he can’t act. He lets little Miss Coleman take over the frames, while he’s happy to be playing a socially awkward hulky social embarrassment, who needs to be told what to wear and when not to dance.
It's all very predictable, including the self-mocking climax replete with a cliff hanging airplane, but no less enjoyable for it. There are some episodes in this sharply-written rom-com of endearing hilarity between the fantastic child actor and Bautista. She has a reply to every question that the CIA agent brings up. Watching this pintsized wonder-girl make the oversized duh-huh guy putty in her hands, is all the impetus you need to watch this film.
Also, watch out for Kristen Schaal as the hero’s espionage partner and Bautista’s two gay neighbours, who are not what they seem to be. Some may be pissed off by the hyper-homosexuality flung forward by actors whose only brief seems, 'Act Gay'.
These are characters painted in broad but vigorous strokes played by actors who are in it for the fun, a sureshot entertainer during these surly times.
There is a hint of a sequel at the end. I am all for it, provided little Ms Coleman doesn’t grow up and go away.
Image Source: Instagram/myspymovie, techzimo
Image Source: Instagram/myspymovie, techzimo