Operation Fortune: A Spy Comedy with a Familiar Flair
Elite mercenary Orson Fortune (Jason Statham) finds his vacation cut short by a mission from the British government. Ruthless billionaire and arms dealer Greg Simmonds (Hugh Grant) is looking to sell a mysterious device with world-altering capabilities to dangerous individuals. To thwart the deal, Fortune assembles his team of seasoned operatives and enlists the help of Hollywood superstar Danny Francesco (Josh Hartnett).
Hugh Grant as Greg Simmonds in a still from “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre”
A year after its initially planned release, Guy Ritchie’s latest film arrives, trading the intense grit of “The Gentlemen” and “Wrath of Man” for a lighter, spy-comedy vibe. Echoing the spirit of “Mission: Impossible” and similar genre staples, the film tackles a ludicrously dangerous threat and then nonchalantly heads back to vacation.
A Return to Lighter Fare
This return to lighthearted humor and a somewhat faded aesthetic feels appropriate, even necessary, in the current climate. The world seems perpetually on the brink of destruction, yet somehow never quite gets there – perhaps thanks to the ever-present Jason Statham. As a true patriot, Fortune doesn’t hesitate to spend government funds on fine wines and private jets, knowing he’s always on call. This cycle of denial, bargaining, and acceptance leads him from Madrid to Cannes to Antalya. Criminals know no bounds, and it’s Fortune’s job to keep them in check.
Josh Hartnett as Danny Francesco in a still from “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre”
Hugh Grant’s Villainous Charm and Hartnett’s Comeback
This time, Hugh Grant embodies the charming villain once again. His character, Greg Simmonds, aims to sell a stolen AI capable of breaching any security system worldwide. Simmonds’ one weakness? Hollywood icon Danny Francesco. The popular and somewhat naive Danny (a welcome return for Josh Hartnett) has a penchant for vintage cars and his own cousin, and finds himself thrust into the role of a real-life hero at Fortune’s request. Gaining the trust of the world’s most dangerous man is easy; escaping his web is another story.
Ritchie’s Signature Style
It’s refreshing to see that Ritchie hasn’t been entirely consumed by the corporate machine. Sandwiched between Disney’s “Aladdin” remake and the upcoming “Hercules,” he carefully assembles his old crew, sends out explosive vignettes, and revisits his own and others’ past glories. This “one for them, one for me” approach evokes a sense of lost trust, now thankfully restored. The machismo that permeates nearly every frame is par for the course, so any surprise or outrage should be kept in check.
Jason Statham as Orson Fortune in a still from “Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre”
Statham and Plaza Steal the Show
While “Wrath of Man” saw Statham exploring more dramatic territory, “Fortune” steers him back towards his earlier collaborations with Ritchie. He may not reach the meta-ironic heights of “Spy,” but he still offers fatherly advice to his boss (Cary Elwes) and resolves problems before they even arise. However, the main reason “Operation Fortune” surpasses Ritchie’s recent work is Aubrey Plaza. She undoubtedly delivers the best female performance in the director’s filmography. Her deadpan humor is complemented by action-star charisma, and a brief slow-motion shooting scene is a definite highlight of the year.
It seems Ritchie is, for the first time, contemplating his own purpose: the rebellious spirit of the '90s may be fading, but his stoic adventurism remains. Everything will go smoothly, Fortune assures us, and in these uncertain times, that unwavering confidence is something to be grateful for.