27.09.2024

Review: Guy Ritchie’s "The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" brings stylish combat to Amazon Prime Malaysia

Guy Ritchie delivers an action-packed WWII thriller with Henry Cavill & Henry Golding, exploring moral dilemmas, masculinity, and a cameo by Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond.

By Raja Izz

The film, based on recently declassified files from Britain's War Department, stars Henry Cavill as Gus March-Phillipps, who led a rollicking team recruited by the British military in the 1940s to unleash their decidedly devil-may-care approaches to war on the Nazis. They're touted as the predecessor to today's special ops programs.

Courtesy of Lionsgate

Warning! Minor spoilers ahead for The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.

I still vividly remember attending the exclusive premiere of The Gentlemen movie in 2020, hosted by LORD's Tailor, alongside Malaysia’s gentlemen style icons Bon Zainal and Wak Doyok. The atmosphere was electric, as the world of sharply dressed gangsters and suave anti-heroes played out on screen. That night, it was clear that Guy Ritchie had carved out a unique niche with his Gentlemen Universe, combining elegance, and sharp wit.

Naturally, when The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare dropped recently on Amazon Prime Malaysia, I was eager to dive back into this world. With Henry Golding returning to the fold, I was ready for another thrilling ride through Ritchie’s trademark blend of action, humor, and gentlemanly philosophy.

Here’s my review of The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare—a film that delivers both stylish intrigue and a fascinating take on wartime morality.

The Storyline:
Set during World War II, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare follows a covert team of unconventional soldiers tasked with combating Nazi forces in ways that would be deemed, well, "ungentlemanly." It’s an intriguing premise, showcasing Ritchie's knack for turning historical fiction into a stylized spectacle. The story, based loosely on Winston Churchill’s special operations unit, keeps the pace relentless, balancing brutal combat scenes with moments of dry humor and sophisticated banter.

Ritchie once again flexes his narrative muscles by introducing an ensemble cast, with Golding standing out as one of the key figures. His character—a debonair, unflinching agent—injects a much-needed layer of sophistication amidst the gritty warfare. The film is as much about the team’s moral dilemmas as it is about their missions, touching on the philosophy of bending (and breaking) the rules of traditional warfare for the greater good.

The Chemistry:
The chemistry between the cast members is electric, a hallmark of Ritchie’s work. Henry Cavill’s interactions with his co-stars bring a sense of camaraderie, even as the characters navigate morally ambiguous situations. His charm offsets the intensity of the action, providing a cool, collected counterbalance to the chaos of war. Ritchie's talent for crafting multi-dimensional characters shines here, as the team feels like a ragtag family, bound together not just by duty, but by mutual respect and an understanding of the sacrifice they must make.

Philosophy and Themes:
Guy Ritchie has always been a director who infuses his films with philosophical musings on masculinity, honor, and the complexities of violence. The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is no different, exploring how far men are willing to go in order to achieve victory. The film asks pointed questions: What does it mean to be "gentlemanly" in times of war? Is it possible to fight dirty without losing your moral compass?

Ritchie suggests that there are moments when breaking the rules is not only necessary but honorable. This nuanced take on morality resonates throughout the film, making it more than just an action-packed thrill ride. It's a meditation on how men can maintain their honor and sense of self when faced with the unrelenting brutality of conflict.

Freddie Fox as Ian Fleming.

Ian Fleming’s Cameo:
One of the film’s most delightful surprises is the appearance of Ian Fleming, portrayed with the calm, cool, and collected demeanor one would expect from the man who created James Bond. His role in the film feels like a nod to the legacy of British intelligence, and his character adds a layer of intrigue, representing the intellectual and strategic side of warfare. Watching suave Fleming work in tandem with the unruly, ungentlemanly agents creates a fascinating contrast, as the film delves into both the cerebral and physical aspects of combat.

Final Thoughts:
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare is a stylish and thought-provoking film that showcases Guy Ritchie at his best. The all stars performance, combined with Ritchie's knack for fast-paced action and philosophical depth, makes this a must-watch for fans of both the Gentlemen universe and WWII thrillers. The film’s exploration of the fine line between honor and necessity, alongside Ian Fleming’s unexpected and fitting appearance, cements it as a standout in the growing catalogue of Guy Ritchie's unique storytelling.

For any man who appreciates a blend of sharp wit, moral ambiguity, and stylish warfare, this film offers the perfect evening's entertainment.

Watch the film on Amazon Prime Malaysia here: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/The-Ministry-of-Ungentlemanly-Warfare/0L0FY9X1E8OAHILA66WJLZ45G2

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