KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE (2017): Review by Brigid Presecky and Georgiana Presecky

Screenwriter Jane Goldman and director Matthew Vaughn bring their charming British spy franchise Kingsman stateside for an equally whacky if less original sequel. With a few too many villains and seemingly wasted big stars, Kingsman: The Golden Circle still puts a fun spin on the spy genre. (GEP: 4/5, BKP: 3.5/5 )

Review by Managing Editor Brigid K. Presecky and Social Media Manager Georgiana E. Presecky

In the 2014 feature Kingsman: The Secret Service, Agent Harry Hart (Codename: Galahad, played by the indomitable Colin Firth) quotes Ernest Hemingway to spy recruit Eggsy Unwin (Taron Egerton). “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self,” Hart says. While the quirky and meta Secret Service was certainly better than its fellow spy film counterparts, Kingsman: The Golden Circle fails to be superior to its former self. Despite Julianne Moore’s turn as the hilarious and sickly-sweet villain and strong performances from Firth and Egerton, the sequel overplays the silly surprises of the original and erases a majority of its English charm.

Moore’s drug empire destroys all traces of the independent intelligence agency we came to love in Secret Service, launching missiles at each of its secret locations and killing off almost every existing agent. Survivors Eggsy and tech-savvy sidekick Merlin (Mark Strong) discover a safety net in the American intelligence agency Statesman, masquerading as a Kentucky bourbon company. Here they find Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry and Channing Tatum in pretty forgettable agent roles and team up to take down Moore’s Poppy, who wants to legalize recreational drug use so badly that she threatens the lives of her drug-using clients with a deadly virus. (The Golden Circle has this in common with The Secret Service – both film’s villains have supposedly “good” social intentions for their genocidal plans, making their motivations more interesting than the average movie antagonist.)

For moviegoers who haven’t seen the original, The Golden Circle can stand on its own. Without the knowledge of Harry and Eggsy’s relationship, however, the action-packed adventure doesn’t hold much weight. Moore’s character is a newcomer, too, and the most entertaining aspect of a drawn-out sequel.

Goldman and Vaughn’s decision to scrap what made the first film so endearing and start from scratch with the less-polished American Statesman is questionable, but will undoubtedly leave room for the series to grow. Eggsy and Harry keep the sequel afloat as they attempt to rebuild their mentorship and once again save the world together. The humorous tone throughout the script serves as a good reminder not to take this unique franchise too seriously, but to buckle into Eggsy’s tricked-out cab for a crazy ride.

The Golden Circle is a bit louder, a bit showier and more chaotic than its predecessor, and about six stunts too long at 141 minutes. But its thoroughly entertaining twists, fun spy gadgetry and mission to save the world rescue it from total tedium.

© Brigid K. Presecky and Georgiana E. Presecky (9/22/17) FF2 Media

Top Photo: Taron Egerton as Eggsy.

Middle Photo: Two original Kingsman with Statesman Agent Whiskey (Pedro Pascal).

Bottom Photo: Egerton and Firth in The Golden Circle.

Photo Credits: 20th Century Fox

Q: Does Kingsman: The Golden Circle pass the Bechdel-Wallace test?

A: No.

Brigid K. Presecky

By Brigid K. Presecky

Brigid Presecky began her career in journalism at Chicago's Goodman Theatre. In 2008, she joined FF2 Media as a part-time film critic and multimedia editor. Receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Bradley University, she moved to Los Angeles where she worked in development, production and publicity for Berlanti Productions, Entertainment Tonight and Warner Bros. Studios, respectively. Returning to her journalistic roots in Chicago, she is now a member of the Chicago Film Critics Association and certified Rotten Tomatoes Film Critic.

116 comments

  1. I’m not sure where you are getting your information, but great topic.
    I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding more.
    Thanks for fantastic information I was looking for this information for my mission.

  2. Hi I am so glad I found your blog, I really found you by
    accident, while I was researching on Aol for something else, Anyways I am here
    now and would just like to say thanks for a incredible post and a all round interesting blog (I also love
    the theme/design), I don’t have time to browse it all at the minute but I have saved it and also included your RSS
    feeds, so when I have time I will be back to read more, Please do keep up the great jo.

  3. Great post but I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this topic?
    I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit further.

    Thanks!

  4. An outstanding share! I’ve just forwarded this onto
    a coworker who had been conducting a little research on this.

    And he actually bought me dinner due to the fact that I found it
    for him… lol. So allow me to reword this…. Thank
    YOU for the meal!! But yeah, thanx for spending time to
    talk about this topic here on your site.

  5. Wonderful beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your
    site, how could i subscribe for a weblog website?
    The account helped me a acceptable deal.
    I were tiny bit familiar of this your broadcast provided vibrant transparent idea

  6. I was wondering if you ever thought of changing the structure of your
    blog? Its very well written; I love what youve got to say.
    But maybe you could a little more in the way of content so people could connect with it better.
    Youve got an awful lot of text for only having
    1 or two images. Maybe you could space it out better?

  7. Oh my goodness! Awesome article dude! Thank you, However I am having troubles with your RSS.
    I don’t know the reason why I am unable to subscribe to it.
    Is there anybody getting the same RSS issues? Anyone that knows the answer can you kindly respond?
    Thanks!!

  8. Wonderful website you have here but I was wanting
    to know if you knew of any message boards that cover the same topics talked about here?
    I’d really like to be a part of community where I can get responses from other
    knowledgeable people that share the same interest.

    If you have any recommendations, please let me know. Many thanks!

  9. Ahaa, its nice conversation on the topic of
    this post at this place at this website, I have read all that,
    so at this time me also commenting at this place.

  10. Hi there this is kinda of off topic but I was wanting to know if blogs use WYSIWYG editors or if you have to
    manually code with HTML. I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding experience so I
    wanted to get advice from someone with experience. Any help would be enormously
    appreciated!

  11. I am not sure where you’re getting your information, but great topic.

    I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more.
    Thanks for magnificent information I was looking for this information for my mission.

  12. It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d definitely donate to this excellent blog!
    I guess for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS
    feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand new updates
    and will talk about this site with my Facebook group.
    Chat soon!

  13. Excellent post. I was checking constantly this
    blog and I’m impressed! Very useful information specially the last part 🙂 I care for such information much.
    I was looking for this particular information for a long time.
    Thank you and best of luck.

  14. What’s up to every body, it’s my first visit of this weblog; this website carries awesome and
    in fact excellent stuff designed for readers.

  15. I don’t know if it’s just me or if everybody else experiencing problems with your blog.
    It seems like some of the text within your content are running off the screen.
    Can somebody else please provide feedback and let me know if this is happening to them too?

    This might be a problem with my internet browser
    because I’ve had this happen previously. Appreciate it

  16. Excellent post. I was checking continuously this blog
    and I’m impressed! Very helpful information particularly the last
    part 🙂 I care for such info a lot. I was seeking this particular information for a
    very long time. Thank you and best of luck.

  17. Good post. I learn something new and challenging
    on websites I stumbleupon on a daily basis. It’s always helpful to read through content from other writers and practice a little something from other web sites.

  18. It is the best time to make some plans for the future
    and it’s time to be happy. I have read this post and if I could I wish to
    suggest you few interesting things or advice.

    Perhaps you could write next articles referring to this article.
    I want to read more things about it!

  19. My developer is trying to persuade me to move to .net from PHP.
    I have always disliked the idea because of the
    expenses. But he’s tryiong none the less. I’ve been using
    WordPress on numerous websites for about a year and am nervous about switching to another platform.
    I have heard very good things about blogengine.net.

    Is there a way I can transfer all my wordpress posts
    into it? Any help would be really appreciated!

  20. Hello, i think that i saw you visited my blog
    so i came to go back the favor?.I am attempting to
    to find things to enhance my site!I suppose its adequate to make use of some
    of your concepts!!

  21. I loved as much as you’ll receive carried out right here.
    The sketch is tasteful, your authored material stylish.
    nonetheless, you command get bought an edginess over that you wish be delivering the following.
    unwell unquestionably come further formerly again as exactly the same nearly a lot often inside case you shield this hike.

  22. Hey this is kind of of off topic but I was wondering if blogs use WYSIWYG
    editors or if you have to manually code with HTML. I’m starting
    a blog soon but have no coding knowledge so I wanted to get guidance from someone with experience.
    Any help would be enormously appreciated!

    Take a look at my blog post: agen poker pulsa

  23. You really make it appear really easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually one thing that I feel I’d never understand.

    It sort of feels too complex and extremely vast for me. I’m taking a look ahead on your next submit, I will attempt to
    get the hold of it!

  24. you’re truly a just right webmaster. The site loading velocity
    is amazing. It sort of feels that you are doing any distinctive trick.
    Moreover, The contents are masterwork. you’ve performed a
    wonderful task on this topic!

  25. each time i used to read smaller articles or reviews
    that also clear their motive, and that is also happening with this paragraph which
    I am reading at this time.

  26. Great post but I was wondering if you could write
    a litte more on this subject? I’d be very grateful if you could
    elaborate a little bit more. Thank you!

  27. Hey there would you mind letting me know which webhost you’re using?
    I’ve loaded your blog in 3 completely different internet browsers and I must say
    this blog loads a lot faster then most. Can you suggest a good hosting provider at a fair price?

    Thanks, I appreciate it!

  28. I get pleasure from, result in I discovered exactly what I was taking
    a look for. You’ve ended my four day lengthy hunt!
    God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye

  29. Hello to all, how is all, I think every one is
    getting more from this web page, and your views are nice in support of
    new visitors.

  30. That is a great tip particularly to those new
    to the blogosphere. Short but very precise information…
    Thank you for sharing this one. A must read article!

  31. I’m pretty pleased to find this great site. I want to to thank you for your time for this wonderful read!!
    I definitely loved every bit of it and i also have you saved
    to fav to see new information on your website.

  32. Right now it sounds like WordPress is the best blogging platform available right now.
    (from what I’ve read) Is that what you are using on your blog?

  33. Sweet blog! I found it while surfing around on Yahoo News.
    Do you have any tips on how to get listed in Yahoo News?
    I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there!
    Thank you

  34. I was suggested this blog by my cousin. I’m not sure whether this post is written by him
    as no one else know such detailed about my trouble.
    You are incredible! Thanks!

  35. Your style is unique in comparison to other folks I have read stuff
    from. Thanks for posting when you have the opportunity, Guess I’ll just
    book mark this page.

  36. Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and
    in accession capital to assert that I get actually enjoyed
    account your blog posts. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feeds and even I achievement
    you access consistently rapidly.

  37. My partner and I stumbled over here coming from
    a different page and thought I might check things out. I like what I
    see so i am just following you. Look forward to looking
    into your web page repeatedly.

  38. Hi there! This is kind of off topic but I need some advice from an established blog.
    Is it hard to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure
    things out pretty quick. I’m thinking about creating
    my own but I’m not sure where to begin. Do you have any tips
    or suggestions? Thank you

  39. Have you ever considered about adding a little bit more than just
    your articles? I mean, what you say is fundamental and all.
    However just imagine if you added some great pictures or videos to give your posts more, “pop”!
    Your content is excellent but with pics and videos, this website could definitely be
    one of the greatest in its field. Awesome blog!

  40. No matter if some one searches for his required thing, thus he/she wants
    to be available that in detail, so that thing is maintained over here.

  41. I was suggested this web site via my cousin. I am not sure whether this post is written via him as nobody else know such detailed approximately my trouble.

    You’re wonderful! Thank you!

  42. Do you mind if I quote a couple of your articles as long as I provide credit and sources back to your website?
    My blog is in the very same area of interest as yours and my visitors would really benefit from
    a lot of the information you provide here. Please let me know if this ok with you.
    Appreciate it!

  43. hi!,I love your writing so a lot! proportion we keep up a
    correspondence more about your post on AOL?
    I require an expert in this house to resolve my problem. Maybe that’s you!
    Taking a look ahead to look you.

  44. Howdy very cool web site!! Guy .. Excellent ..
    Wonderful .. I will bookmark your website and take the feeds additionally?
    I am happy to seek out a lot of helpful info right here within the submit, we need
    work out extra techniques in this regard, thanks for sharing.
    . . . . .

  45. I have learn a few just right stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting.
    I surprise how so much effort you set to make this type of wonderful
    informative site.

  46. I was very pleased to find this web site. I need to to thank you for ones time for this particularly
    fantastic read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it and i also have you book-marked to check out new things in your website.

  47. Today, I went to the beach with my children.
    I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old
    daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She put the shell to her ear and screamed.
    There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back!
    LoL I know this is completely off topic but I had
    to tell someone!

  48. I’m gone to inform my little brother, that
    he should also pay a visit this web ite on regular basis to take updated from moswt recent gossip.

    Here is my web page :: Leigh

  49. Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and
    in accession capital to assert that I acquyire in fzct enjoyed account your blog posts.
    Anyway I will be subscribing tto your feeds and even I
    achievement you access consistently fast.

    Have a look at my site: best ranked live sex

  50. We absoluhtely love your blog aand find nearly all of
    your post’s to be what precisely I’m loooking for.
    Would yoou offer guest writers to write content for
    yourself? I wouldn’t mind composing a post or elaborating on some of the subjects you write regarding here.
    Again, awesome site!

    Feel free to visit my webpage :: Chaturbate

  51. whoah this weblog is excellent i love studying your posts.
    Keep up the good work! You recognize, a lot of people are searching
    round for this information, you can help them greatly.

    Feel free to visit my blog post – nude models

  52. Normally I do not read post on blogs, butt I wokuld lioke tto say that this write-up very
    pressured me to check out and do so! Your writing taste
    haas been surprised me. Thank you, quite nice post.

    Here is my website … Cam4

  53. I like the helpful info youu provide in your articles.
    I will bookmark your blog and take a lok at once more here frequently.
    I’m moderately sure I’ll be told many new stuff right
    right here! best sex cams of
    lucxk for the following!

  54. First off I want to say awesome blog! I had a quick question that
    I’d like to ask if you do not mind. I was curious
    to know how you center yourself and clear your thoughts prior to writing.

    I’ve had difficulty clearing my mind in getting my ideas
    out there. I truly do take pleasure in writing however it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes are generally wasted just trying to figure out how to begin. Any recommendations or hints?
    Cheers!

    My page … spam

  55. I just like the helpful information you supply to
    your articles. I’ll bookmark your blog and check again here
    frequently. I’m rather sure I will learn many new stuff proper here!
    Best of luck for the following!

    My web blog fake webcam

  56. Hello, this weekend is good designed for me, because this moment i am reading this enormous informative piece of writing here at my house.

  57. Hello There. I found your weblog using msn. This is a very neatly written article.

    I’ll make sure to bookmark it and come back to learn extra of your helpful info.
    Thanks for the post. I will certainly return.

  58. Hi there! Someone in my Myspace group shared this website with us so I came to
    give it a look. I’m definitely enjoying the information. I’m bookmarking
    and will be tweeting this to my followers! Terrific blog and amazing design.

  59. Hey just wanted to give you a quick heads up.
    The text in your content seem to be running off
    the screen in Ie. I’m not sure if this is a format issue or something to do
    with web browser compatibility but I thought I’d post to
    let you know. The design look great though! Hope you get the issue solved soon. Cheers

  60. Greetings from Colorado! I’m bored at work so I decided to browse
    your blog on my iphone during lunch break. I really like the knowledge you provide here and can’t wait to take
    a look when I get home. I’m surprised at how quick your blog loaded
    on my cell phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G ..
    Anyways, superb blog!

  61. Wow, superb blog layout! How long have you ever
    been running a blog for? you made running a blog glance easy.
    The total glance of your site is wonderful, let alone the content material!

  62. Good post but I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this subject?

    I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit more.
    Bless you!

  63. Howdy! Someone in my Myspace group shared this website with us so I came to look it over.
    I’m definitely loving the information. I’m bookmarking and
    will be tweeting this to my followers! Fantastic blog and outstanding style and
    design.

    Here is my site – xge2bet

Leave a Reply to Clement Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *