Atomic Blond

(loosely based on graphic novel, The Coldest City by Antony Johnston, Sam Hart)

This film held my attention. It was confusing with the many McGuffins scattered throughout the story. However due to the talent of the primary actors Charlize Theron and James McAvoy it is worth watching. The supporting actors, Sofia Boutella, Eddie Marsan, John Goodman, Toby Jones and Bill Skarsgard validated this story with involving personalities. While I have not read the graphic novel (The Coldest City by Antony Johnston, Sam Hart) that this is based on, but I am told that this film is only very loosely based on that novel. Atomic Blond has been advertised as a stylish action/fighting thriller.  It is actually must more of a 1950's type spy story with no one being who they are portrayed to be. The action is highly realistic. The fighters show signs of fatigue and serious injuries. There is a staircase scene, while very violent, glues your eyes to the screen. The music is a bit heavy handed, comparable to horror movies that over rely on jump scares. Once I realized that the everything is twists and turns, it became easier to follow. The story is more of a loop than a straight line.The last 5-10 minutes of the movie does briefly explain what the "blank (insert your own colorful term here)" was going on. While I enjoyed its addition, it did feel tacked on, as if the preview audience had complained about not being able to figure out this film. I would recommend seeing this film, but would wait for it to stream.