Spy (Rated C)
Cast: Melissa McCarthy, Jason Statham, Jude Law, Rose Byrne
Genre: Comedy Action
Dwight's Rating:

Melissa McCarthy for Prime Minister! President! Queen! Pope! She is arguably the funniest woman in movies today. And right up there with Amy Schumer, Kristen Wiig, or Kate McKinnon on the list of the funniest women in all of entertainment.
McCarthy's latest movie, the spy-caper simply called, "Spy", is a delightful blend of comedy and action -- there's actually a surprising amount of action, and an almost over-abundance of comedy.

McCarthy plays CIA analyst Susan Cooper. After spending most of her career working behind a desk, she is suddenly thrust into her first undercover assignment -- capturing Bulgarian arms dealer Rayna Boyanov (Rose Byrne). Where and why "Spy" really shines is with the spectacular chemistry between the cast members, especially with McCarthy and of all people, Jason Statham. They butt heads often, as Statham's character is a tough guy super spy who values himself probably a little more than he's worth. The bickering between the two is priceless, and Statham should actually do more comedy.

McCarthy is also great with "Bridesmaids" co-star Byrne. Byrne excels at everything she does, be it comedy or drama, and is a devilishly wicked villainess here. And British import Miranda Hart has some of the funniest lines, and would almost have stolen the show, had it not been the movie's amazing star. So, it's McCarthy's show, and she's dazzling. She seems to not want to stray too far from what she believes she's good at -- delivering witty lines, self-deprecation, and very physical comedy. With "Spy" she's conducting a master-class in modern adult (very much R-rated) comedy.

McCarthy has seen some lows like "Tammy", and some uneven efforts like "Identity Thief". There have also been unbelievable highs, like her small but memorable Oscar-nominated role in the aforementioned "Bridesmaids", or 2013's very funny "The Heat". "Spy" may be her very best effort to-date. So far, it's the funniest movie of the year.

I actually want to see more. This would be one of the few times I would ever endorse the start of a film-franchise, but I think it would be great fun to see more McCarthy-Statham-Hart adventures. If James Bond can keep cranking them out, then why not?

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