Movies are an escape into a rainbow of storytelling with colors of drama, action, and horror. Many times, you get the package as advertised; an epic war film is a tension-filled ride of explosions and testing human limitations, and superhero tales are ridiculously fantastic fabrications that defy sense and physics. Then, there are times when you suspect a movie could be fun, but you start watching without expectation. Yet, at the end, you walk away having thoroughly enjoyed yourself for the previous two hours after going through an experience whose imagery resonates after the screen goes dark. Kingsmen: The Secret Service is one such movie.

On paper, Kingsman has all the components of worthwhile cinematic fare. The cast is top-notch with the presence of Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson, and Mark Strong, with just enough unsung talent (for 2014) to keep things fresh. On top of that, a good spy and world domination plot makes for good popcorn munching fuel. Why then is Kingsman a movie that surprised? I do not know if I can provide a sufficient answer for that, because the movie just strummed the right chord for me. Kingsman has certain qualities, however, that stand out. To start, it is surprisingly self-aware but not too aware or over-the-top to become a parody. Character dialog in the film hearkens to traditional tropes of the James Bond films with the bombastic plans of evil geniuses and bad guys always taking time to reveal their plans before attempting to eliminate the protagonist. Then, unlike movies in the vein of Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, the characters are competent and serious, however, Kingsman does not take itself too seriously. There are enough uplifting moments that let you cheer for the good guys with balance of truly “what the f*ck” instances that make you immediately want to call out to whomever can hear, “Did you see that?!” Like any good spy story, the plot is insane but within bearable limits to keep it engaging throughout the film’s entirety. The characters are unique and colorful with robust arcs. Topping the cake is the absolutely stunning cinematography during the action sequences where it is personal, visceral, and weighty. There is a sequence in a certain Kentucky church, with a certain song by Lynard Skynard accompanying the action, that is one of my favorite scenes in all of moviedom. It is fast-paced and brutal to the point my pulse rises during each viewing. 

Overall, the combination of a quickly developing story, highly interesting characters, and thrilling action crafts a wonderful joyride that, in the moment of watching, caught me unawares. As the watch time ticks by, there is always something that makes you glad you are watching and a little sad you know the movie must end. I love when movies or shows make me curse the clock for steadily marking my enjoyment’s impending demise. Now, when I think of those movies that stick with me and are good for multiple watches, Kingsman: The Secret Service easily makes that short list.