A Spy Movie that Will Make You Root for the Married Couple

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Warning: Spoilers for Black Bag are in play.

This upcoming phase of the 2025 movie schedule might be viewed as a “calm before the storm” with major releases approaching in the coming months. However, I’d argue that this characterization is unjust, even though the box office earnings of Black Bag‘s opening weekend weren’t record-breaking by any means.

If you’re wondering if you should watch this movie and would like to hear my thoughts without any spoilers, our Black Bag review is the place to look. However, there’s one small detail that I found particularly intriguing, especially for fans of James Bond films. This additional tidbit added an extra layer of enjoyment for me in the context of being a fan of the James Bond series.

Indeed, from now on, we’ll delve into some details that might reveal plot points, and the discussion will also lean towards the romantic side, so if you prefer to avoid spoilers or such themes, it would be best to proceed with caution.

Black Bag’s Spy Based Intrigue Hides A Clever Relationship Dramedy

I had anticipated that Steven Soderbergh and David Koepp’s latest project would deliver a more intently dramatic espionage thriller. The trailers certainly gave this impression, which might have deterred some viewers; even considering the positive critical response Black Bag has received.

However, let me share an interesting perspective on this film: Though it might seem like a typical spy thriller at first glance, it’s actually a clever blend of romance, comedy, and drama – often referred to as a dramedy. The central plot revolving around the search for a stolen, secret malware is more of a catalyst to advance the story, rather than being the main focus itself. This story unfolds between two lively dinner parties, acting as bookends to the narrative.

Fundamentally, George Woodhouse’s (Michael Fassbender) inner turmoil unfolds as he probes a clue suggesting his wife Kathryn St. Jean (Cate Blanchett) might be involved. However, the identities of those to rely on remain uncertain among all characters. In actuality, this secretive couple of spies seems to hold the reins of the situation.

At the conclusion of this short yet exhilarating journey, we discover that George correctly placed his faith in Kathryn, who was secretly involved in the same undercover operation. As for those seeking a hint about whether love prevails in the storyline – rest assured, it does, primarily due to Col. James Stokes (Regé-Jean Page) and Arthur Stieglitz (Pierce Brosnan), portrayed as M in this adaptation, who turns out to be the real antagonist.

In contrast to other romantic pairs who face job-related stresses and eventually falter, our elegantly dressed married couple maintains composure – unless it’s strategically used to unmask the traitor among them. For the most part, this is achieved by subtly exploiting their vulnerabilities as couples.

I Totally Dig How George And Kathryn Are The Gomez And Morticia Of MI6

Regardless of whether you prefer films like ‘Dr. No’ or ‘Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy’, which are not part of the Bond series, or even the seemingly domestic duo of ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’ from 2005, espionage stories seldom revolve around a contented home life. In fact, many draw comparisons between ‘Black Bag’ and the action-comedy ‘Mr. and Mrs. Smith’.

If I were to rephrase your text in a more natural and easy-to-read manner, it would be: “In my opinion, George and Kathryn are most similar to Gomez and Morticia from ‘The Addams Family.’ They have a shared profession as their primary bond, and they’re incredibly loyal to one another. Their relationship is solid because of this fundamental truth, much like the Addams couple. And just like them, they would go to great lengths to protect each other – Kathryn even demonstrates this by taking action!

Typically, being a married spy often involves leading a complex dual existence, similar to the characters in movies such as “True Lies” and “Mission: Impossible III”. Even films like “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy”, featuring the character George Smiley, played by Gary Oldman, portray the struggle of maintaining a relationship while navigating through the rocky waters of uncovering secret agendas within The Circus.

Surprisingly, such outcomes are often the unfortunate ones. In the Christmas-themed 007 movie titled On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, we witnessed a heartbreaking finale where James Bond (George Lazenby) and his bride Tracy (Diana Rigg) exchanged their vows, only for her to be gunned down moments later.

The film, titled “Black Bag”, explores an intriguing concept: what if two secret agents were deeply dedicated to their profession, yet harbored a strong affection for each other? This added depth to the movie is particularly engaging, as Clarissa Dubose (Marisa Abela) playfully flirts with George, but these instances never lead to anything significant. Instead, the theme of spies grappling with loyalty is addressed through Freddie Smalls (Tom Burke), which leaves their unique relationship as a refreshing and unexplored model of romantic compatibility.

In this Soderbergh/Koepp thriller, the action remains top-notch, let me emphasize. Interestingly, the film titled Black Bag surprised me by deviating from its advertised image and turning out to be even more enjoyable. I’m hoping for more escapades featuring George Woodhouse and Kathryn St. Jean, a duo who seem to be ready to go to great lengths, even sacrificing their lives, for each other.

If this is our sole chance to share some wine, exchange a few secrets, then I’m grateful I could make it. Now, you can enjoy the same experience at the theater, as Black Bag has been made available for public viewing.

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2025-03-19 23:08