Matthew Vaughan’s British action-comedy franchise,Kingsman, is a film series that has definitely gained much fame across the globe. With the perfect amount of comedy and action, these films have everything that is necessary to grasp the viewer’s attention. Vaughan’s casting, as well as the storyline of the films are epic, due to its infusion of mystery, secrets, and spies. Moreover, the three movies are connected to one another, in turn, making them perfectly in-sync.
However, if one were to regard the three films andquestion what is the best one of them, it is probablyKingsman: The Secret Service. Released in 2014, this was the first film that entered the franchise. It may not be the first film in terms of the storyline, as the most recent film,The King’s Man,released in 2021, lays the foundation for the Secret Service. Yet again, there are so many reasons whyKingsman: The Secret Servicecan be argued as the best among the three. From brilliantly executed character developments, to sending out some very positive messages to society, and a very funny, but threatening villain, here’s whyKingsman: The Secret Servicecan be regarded as the best in Vaughan’s infamous franchise.
Eggsy’s Character Development
Taron Egerton has won the hearts of many through his performance as Gary “Eggsy” Unwin. Interestingly, Eggsy’s role was what paved the way for Egerton’s success, as he states that this specific audition “was the first of very many”. Similar to Egerton, we see Eggsy’s character going through a major change as he enters into the world of secret spies. However, instead of introducing an Eggsy on a mission, Vaughan introduces Eggsy as a struggling boy who is finding it difficult to help his mom, and thus, is stuck with her abusive boyfriend. Eggsy is recommended to the Secret Service byHarry Hart, played by Collin Firth. However, a mere recommendation is not enough. As the process to select the ideal candidate for the position of Lancelot begins, we see that Eggsy stands out from the rest due to his non-Oxbridge background. Unlike the other candidates, Eggsy lacks the proper upbringing. However, as the story progresses, we see that Eggsy is able to be the perfect gentleman. Moreover, his skills and talents gained from the streets came in handy as he performed brilliantly in the tests. He may not be the smartest of the candidates, but his qualities make him the perfect candidate.
Related:Best Taron Egerton Movies, Ranked
A Villain with Humor
Samuel L. Jackson’s portrayal of Richmond Valentine is quite intriguing, as this particular villain invokes humor as well as fear. Valentine is a wealthy maniac whose “solution” to climate change is wiping out the human population. Additionally, he selects a few people to ensure that the human population doesn’t go extinct. However, this selection is based on the person’s class and wealth. What makes this character hilarious, is his ability to find things like bloodshed appalling, while at the same time, being eager to kill so many people. Moreover, as Harry visits Valentine for dinner, which was initially supposed to be a “ball”, the menu includes so many McDonald’s burgers. For someone who wants to tackle climate change, it is ironic to beconsuming meat and having so much food producedfor just two people. Valentine is definitely an eye-opening character, who also adds in humor, and Jackson’s execution of the character is the cherry on top.
Related:Samuel L. Jackson Joins The Secret Service as the Villain
The Kingsman Recruitment Process
It is obvious that to join a Secret Service, you cannot just send a simple resume and a cover letter. To join the Kingsman’s Secret Service, having mere talents, gentleman-like qualities, and brains is definitely not enough either. This particular film goes on to show what it takes to be a Kingsman. Prima facie; it may seem as if the process is a test on strength and the brains of the candidates, as seen in most action movies. However, to be a Kingsman, you also need to be loyal and a good team worker. Eggsy may not have been the selected candidate for the position of Lancelot as we see Roxy, played by Sophie Cookson, winning the title, but Eggsy does end up in the Secret Service.
Following Harry’s alleged death, as well as Arthur’s betrayal, Eggsy uses his skills as well as the training he gained to team up with Roxy and Merlin to defeat Valentine. Ultimately, Eggsy becomes the new Galahad, which was previously held by Harry. Thus, this particular film gives the viewer an in-depth idea as to what the process is like in becoming a Kingsman. Of course, Eggsy might be a rare exception, as he does not get recruited due to the process ashe fails the final test.
Character-Focused Rather than Mission-Focused
Another factor that makesKingsman: The Secret Servicethe best in the franchise, is that it gives the audience an idea as to what kind of characters the film contains. Most action movies are mission-focused. Thus, instead of illustrating the characters' personalities and qualities, they tend to focus a bit too much on the action element of the film. However,Kingsman: The Secret Servicestrikes the perfect balance between the two. We are shown what kind of setting Eggsy comes from, in turn, allowing the viewer to sympathize with him, as well as adore his development. We are also introduced to Harry through aniconic bar fight, which elaborates on Harry’s mentor-like personality, and also his gentleman qualities, since “manners maketh man”.
Overall,Kingsman: The Secret Servicestill tops the franchise. Of course, there is a possibility that this might change, given theupcoming additionsto the franchise.
