The 355

The 355

Happy New Year everyone and welcome to my first film review of the new year, The 355. I’ve been excited and anxiously awaiting this one to hit the big screen for over two years so I couldn’t wait to get to the theater and see this on the big screen.  Directed and co-written by Simon Kinberg The 355 stars a cast of heavy hitters lead by: Jessica Chastain, Lupita Nyong’o, Diane Kruger, Bingbing Fan, and Penelope Cruz as super spies that must work together (or die alone) to stop WWIII. Sebastian Stan and Edgar Ramierz round out the cast.  

Given the nature of this film, I’m struggling a bit to try and not spoil anything, so apologies if I’m a bit vaguer and more nonsensical than usual.  

While somewhat predictable (the trailers give some things away) The 355 is a satisfying, well-paced espionage thriller that delivers strong performances, brutal fight sequences, chaotic and energetic action that gives the likes of James Bond and John Wick a run for their money.  Best of this female led “girl power” film doesn’t fall into the usual trope of powerful, competent women being nothing more than guys with boobs and/or bitches.  Each has their own individual personality, expertise, and cross to bear. Watching this group come together, kickass, be vulnerable, bolster one another and get the job done is one of the most refreshing aspects of the film.

The 355 is also just fun.  Sure, the fate of the world hangs in the balance (doesn’t it always?), but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself and have a few laughs.  The humor in the film is wonderfully done and hits as hard as the punches thrown.  

I first heard about and got excited for The 355 during a Sebastian Stan interview (big fan). I don’t feel I can say much about his character, Nick, without spoiling the film, but I can and will say, the man delivers, again.  In a big way.  Loved him.  Hated him. Loved to hate him and hated to love him.  Perfection.

 Is The 355 perfect?  No. There are some issues I had, but none which kept me from enjoying the film and happy I braved the theater to see it on the big screen.  And for me, definitely none so bad to justify the haterade I’m seeing in many early reviews.  I actually dragged a friend to this one, (hi Golda) she had no idea what it was or what it was about, but she enjoyed it as well.

If you can and feel safe doing so, check The 355 out in the theater and decide for yourself.  

I’m giving The 355 a solid 8.5