350 Bewertungen
There's just about enough intrigue in David Koepp's efficient script to hold the attention in trying to decipher what is going on in Steven Soderbergh's underwhelming spy thriller which is more like a theatrical play than a cinematic experience.
All of the assembled cast do a sufficient job in delivering a very talky script. I especially liked Michael Fassbender's concise and measured performance as the spy ordered to get to the bottom of a leaked top secret software program that could jeopardise national security where his wife, Cate Blanchett, is one of the suspects.
For me Soderbergh never quite scratches my itch when he attempts to do 'cool' like he did with the Ocean trilogy. There's a cold aloofness that prevents me as a viewer to get completely wrapped up in the story he is trying to tell. Also with Black Bag I wasn't keen on the cinematography which looked like a creative decision to make most light sources seem diffused, presumably to make this look like an old fashioned espionage thriller from the 1960's. Fassbenders character certainly has shades of Harry Palmer to him, especially wearing those trademark black glasses.
Despite it being talky and smart it's not that taut and I would like to have seen a bit more action and a few surprise twists for there to be a better payoff for all the concentration the viewer has to endure to get to a rather mediocre finale.
All of the assembled cast do a sufficient job in delivering a very talky script. I especially liked Michael Fassbender's concise and measured performance as the spy ordered to get to the bottom of a leaked top secret software program that could jeopardise national security where his wife, Cate Blanchett, is one of the suspects.
For me Soderbergh never quite scratches my itch when he attempts to do 'cool' like he did with the Ocean trilogy. There's a cold aloofness that prevents me as a viewer to get completely wrapped up in the story he is trying to tell. Also with Black Bag I wasn't keen on the cinematography which looked like a creative decision to make most light sources seem diffused, presumably to make this look like an old fashioned espionage thriller from the 1960's. Fassbenders character certainly has shades of Harry Palmer to him, especially wearing those trademark black glasses.
Despite it being talky and smart it's not that taut and I would like to have seen a bit more action and a few surprise twists for there to be a better payoff for all the concentration the viewer has to endure to get to a rather mediocre finale.
I find myself increasingly weary of the spy film genre, especially those that center around a romantic couple. It has become a trope so familiar, so predictable, that the very notion of it now feels like an exercise in the mundane. Each iteration feels almost mechanically constructed, as if there is an unspoken formula at play, one that prioritizes style over substance, a kind of cinematic sleight of hand designed to keep the audience distracted from the lack of originality beneath the surface. In this particular instance, however, the dialogue attempts to elevate itself above the usual banter of its kind, but only to the point of indulging in an almost ostentatious, borderline pretentious, air of intellectualism. There's a certain artifice to it all-an effort to sound clever, to sound profound, that ultimately rings hollow. The conversations between the characters, rather than offering any real emotional depth or compelling insight, instead feel like performative displays of wit, which do little more than alienate rather than engage. This was a film that seemed more concerned with showcasing its own perceived sophistication than with crafting any meaningful connection with its audience. And yet, despite all its verbal flourishes, it never once managed to grasp my attention in any truly significant way. The pacing felt sluggish, the stakes hardly compelling, and the emotional core-if one could even call it that-was so underdeveloped it barely registered. In the end, it was less a work of cinema and more an exercise in style over substance, one that never captured my imagination or curiosity.
- glenn-54867
- 27. März 2025
- Permalink
It was one of those movies that's first hard to get into, but once you hit halfway you're invested. It's not that this movie was bad at all, it just didn't hit for me. It felt like a murder mystery, without the murder. It had fun twists and turns and dark at times. Them sitting around the table was the most intense parts, that goes to show you the amount of action in this movie. Just a warning if you're looking for any at all, this has none. Also most of this movie could have been figured out with a conversation between wife and husband, thay apparently trust each other so much. But whatever. Haha
Watched at AMC on 3-13-2025.
Watched at AMC on 3-13-2025.
- skylerkennethkidd
- 17. März 2025
- Permalink
- saldangeorgy
- 4. Apr. 2025
- Permalink
My Review- Black Bag
My Rating 6/10
In Cinemas now
Mmm, I found this movie directed by Steven Soderbergh really dull and lifeless.
He's not a favourite director of mine although I loved Erin Brockovich but some oh his other offerings left me underwhelmed.
Black Bag begins with intelligence agent Kathryn Woodhouse being suspected of betraying the nation and her husband George also a legendary agent .
The stakes get high when the security around a software program named Severus is threatened by falling into foreign hands.
George played by Michael Fassbender faces the ultimate test of whether to be loyal to his marriage, or his country.
Kathryn Woodhouse is played by Cate Blanchett in what I refer to as one of her " look at me I'm acting! " roles most recent being the complex wife Catherine Ravenscroft a celebrity journalist in the series Disclaimer which I also rated a 6/10.
Black Bag is a slick looking production with an estimated budget of USD 60,000,000 .
For me the script by David Koepp didn't flow and got very convoluted at times with no light or shade to make the characters believable.
Even some of the supporting characters seemed cut outs from previous spy dramas .
It even features two alumni from the official James Bond feature film series. They are Eve Moneypenny actress Naomie Harris and former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan.
The scene in the restaurant with Pierce Brosnan's character Arthur Stieglitz consuming what appears to be a live fish in an illegal Japanese custom called ikizukuri really turned me off my dinner .
I really even couldn't say I recall any movie score in Black Bag but apparently it was composed by Thomas Newman.
I'm sure some people will probably enjoy Black Bag but it went over my head and straight out of my memory.
Mmm, I found this movie directed by Steven Soderbergh really dull and lifeless.
He's not a favourite director of mine although I loved Erin Brockovich but some oh his other offerings left me underwhelmed.
Black Bag begins with intelligence agent Kathryn Woodhouse being suspected of betraying the nation and her husband George also a legendary agent .
The stakes get high when the security around a software program named Severus is threatened by falling into foreign hands.
George played by Michael Fassbender faces the ultimate test of whether to be loyal to his marriage, or his country.
Kathryn Woodhouse is played by Cate Blanchett in what I refer to as one of her " look at me I'm acting! " roles most recent being the complex wife Catherine Ravenscroft a celebrity journalist in the series Disclaimer which I also rated a 6/10.
Black Bag is a slick looking production with an estimated budget of USD 60,000,000 .
For me the script by David Koepp didn't flow and got very convoluted at times with no light or shade to make the characters believable.
Even some of the supporting characters seemed cut outs from previous spy dramas .
It even features two alumni from the official James Bond feature film series. They are Eve Moneypenny actress Naomie Harris and former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan.
The scene in the restaurant with Pierce Brosnan's character Arthur Stieglitz consuming what appears to be a live fish in an illegal Japanese custom called ikizukuri really turned me off my dinner .
I really even couldn't say I recall any movie score in Black Bag but apparently it was composed by Thomas Newman.
I'm sure some people will probably enjoy Black Bag but it went over my head and straight out of my memory.
- tm-sheehan
- 13. März 2025
- Permalink
This is not your average spy thriller: it's mainly talk, tons of it, between a small group of British intelligence employees who all seem to live their personal and work lives in each others pockets and beds. To attempt to add gravitas to the production, the colour has been desaturated and the light dialled down to dull and grim, so viewers know it's a serious drama, not James Bond.
There are a few effective action set pieces to keep viewers awake ( not my wife, unfortunately, she slept through most of it ) but not really enough, I'm guessing, to satisfy the action fans.
For film fans who try to see everything that opens in cinemas, only.
There are a few effective action set pieces to keep viewers awake ( not my wife, unfortunately, she slept through most of it ) but not really enough, I'm guessing, to satisfy the action fans.
For film fans who try to see everything that opens in cinemas, only.
Full disclosure: when I first saw the trailer for Black Bag, I wasn't impressed. In fact, I was even less impressed when I assumed it was just another run-of-the-mill spy thriller about agents hell-bent on destabilising Moscow.
Boyyyyy, was I wrong.
This film is an absolute class act - an intelligent, gripping espionage drama that had me hooked from start to finish. Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender deliver powerhouse performances, balancing raw intensity with the kind of nuance that elevates the film beyond your standard spy fare. Their chemistry is electric, and every moment between them crackles with tension.
The supporting cast is just as strong, with Naomie Harris, Regé-Jean Page, and Pierce Brosnan adding layers of intrigue and depth. The dialogue is razor-sharp, and the script is packed with twists and turns that never feel forced - just expertly crafted storytelling at its finest.
Steven Soderbergh is in his element here, blending sleek cinematography with a tight, sophisticated narrative. It's stylish, smart, and effortlessly cool. If you think you know what to expect from Black Bag, think again. This is espionage cinema at its absolute best.
Boyyyyy, was I wrong.
This film is an absolute class act - an intelligent, gripping espionage drama that had me hooked from start to finish. Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender deliver powerhouse performances, balancing raw intensity with the kind of nuance that elevates the film beyond your standard spy fare. Their chemistry is electric, and every moment between them crackles with tension.
The supporting cast is just as strong, with Naomie Harris, Regé-Jean Page, and Pierce Brosnan adding layers of intrigue and depth. The dialogue is razor-sharp, and the script is packed with twists and turns that never feel forced - just expertly crafted storytelling at its finest.
Steven Soderbergh is in his element here, blending sleek cinematography with a tight, sophisticated narrative. It's stylish, smart, and effortlessly cool. If you think you know what to expect from Black Bag, think again. This is espionage cinema at its absolute best.
Greetings again from the darkness. Are you ready for 90 minutes of cool people wearing cool clothes and doing cool things while acting cool in the face of danger? If so, this one is for you. Oscar winner Steven Soderbergh (TRAFFIC, 2000; OCEAN'S ELEVEN, 2001; OCEAN'S TWELVE, 2004) dons multiple hats here as director-producer-editor-cinematographer (some under familiar pseudonyms). The screenplay comes from well-known writer David Koepp (JURASSIC PARK, 1993; MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE, 1996). The pedigree of these two is exemplified by the cast assembled.
George (Michael Fassbender) and Kathryn (Oscar winner Cate Blanchett) star as husband and wife secret agents that have pledged to kill for each other if ever necessary. Really, that should be part of every wedding vow. Fastidious George has built his reputation on his mystical ability to spot a lie, and has no room for anyone who is less than honest. Glamorous Kathryn excels at her missions and when secrecy is required, one spouse will utter the magic titular phrase, "black bag". This signals, 'I love you, but can't tell you more'. They live in a stunning London apartment, which serves as the setting for two particularly crucial dinner parties.
Every spy story worth its mettle has at least one MacGuffin, and ours is Severus, a sophisticated code worm designed to take control of nuclear weaponry. While it gets mentioned numerous times, the real story here is in discovering who the mole is inside the Secret Intelligence Service managed by Stieglitz (Pierce Brosnan). The five suspects George must investigate include computer analyst Clarissa (Marisa Abela, BACK TO BLACK, 2019), easily tempted agency veteran Freddie (Tom Burke, so excellent in THE SOUVENIR, 2019), suave and self-confident Stokes (Rege-Jean Page, "Bridgerton"), and staff psychologist Dr. Zoe Vaughn (Naomie Harris, MOONLIGHT, 2016). You'll notice that's just four suspects, as the fifth (unknown to her) is George's wife Kathryn. Adding to the intricacies of the jobs, the dinner parties, and this mole mission is the fact that George and Kathryn aren't the only couple in attendance. Clarissa is dating the older Freddie, while Stokes and Zoe are also seeing each other ... and there are likely other surprise complications with this group.
True fans of spy thrillers should know that this is not a new TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (2011), but rather a user-friendly story in the mold of the "Mission: Impossible" movies - only with less action and no high-wire stunt sequences. Instead, these agents withhold a lot while still talking a lot (some of the dialogue is quite funny). It's more of a personality chess match than an assault on our senses. Complementing the verbose proceedings is a perfect twisty jazz score from David Holmes. We must also take note of the numerous ties to the James Bond franchise (Brosnan, Harris, and rumors), and it's best to just sit back and enjoy Soderbergh in his element (this is his second film released in 2025) ... entertainment with a cool vibe.
Opens in theaters on March 14, 2025.
George (Michael Fassbender) and Kathryn (Oscar winner Cate Blanchett) star as husband and wife secret agents that have pledged to kill for each other if ever necessary. Really, that should be part of every wedding vow. Fastidious George has built his reputation on his mystical ability to spot a lie, and has no room for anyone who is less than honest. Glamorous Kathryn excels at her missions and when secrecy is required, one spouse will utter the magic titular phrase, "black bag". This signals, 'I love you, but can't tell you more'. They live in a stunning London apartment, which serves as the setting for two particularly crucial dinner parties.
Every spy story worth its mettle has at least one MacGuffin, and ours is Severus, a sophisticated code worm designed to take control of nuclear weaponry. While it gets mentioned numerous times, the real story here is in discovering who the mole is inside the Secret Intelligence Service managed by Stieglitz (Pierce Brosnan). The five suspects George must investigate include computer analyst Clarissa (Marisa Abela, BACK TO BLACK, 2019), easily tempted agency veteran Freddie (Tom Burke, so excellent in THE SOUVENIR, 2019), suave and self-confident Stokes (Rege-Jean Page, "Bridgerton"), and staff psychologist Dr. Zoe Vaughn (Naomie Harris, MOONLIGHT, 2016). You'll notice that's just four suspects, as the fifth (unknown to her) is George's wife Kathryn. Adding to the intricacies of the jobs, the dinner parties, and this mole mission is the fact that George and Kathryn aren't the only couple in attendance. Clarissa is dating the older Freddie, while Stokes and Zoe are also seeing each other ... and there are likely other surprise complications with this group.
True fans of spy thrillers should know that this is not a new TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY (2011), but rather a user-friendly story in the mold of the "Mission: Impossible" movies - only with less action and no high-wire stunt sequences. Instead, these agents withhold a lot while still talking a lot (some of the dialogue is quite funny). It's more of a personality chess match than an assault on our senses. Complementing the verbose proceedings is a perfect twisty jazz score from David Holmes. We must also take note of the numerous ties to the James Bond franchise (Brosnan, Harris, and rumors), and it's best to just sit back and enjoy Soderbergh in his element (this is his second film released in 2025) ... entertainment with a cool vibe.
Opens in theaters on March 14, 2025.
- ferguson-6
- 13. März 2025
- Permalink
If you enjoyed watching Michael Caine in The Ipcress File, you would enjoy the updated homage in this clever spy whodunnit. Evidence the black-rimmed spectacles on Michael Fassbender.
This film will appeal to intelligent viewers who enjoy attending to every detail of the evolving mystery.
Fassbender and Blanchett are superb, but watch for nuanced portrayals from all involved.
Not for casual viewing; intellectually stimulating.
Recommended for attentive viewing with no interruptions. Like at the cinema. The large screen helps with the details but also adds to the retro nature of the picture.
The update is the astounding technology we now live with. Watch this with someone clever.
This film will appeal to intelligent viewers who enjoy attending to every detail of the evolving mystery.
Fassbender and Blanchett are superb, but watch for nuanced portrayals from all involved.
Not for casual viewing; intellectually stimulating.
Recommended for attentive viewing with no interruptions. Like at the cinema. The large screen helps with the details but also adds to the retro nature of the picture.
The update is the astounding technology we now live with. Watch this with someone clever.
This taut spy thriller from Stephen Soderbergh doesn't exactly reinvent the wheel of the spy fiction genre, but it's definitely and thoroughly well-made and well-acted. Viewers should first and foremost know that this is a small-scale drama/thriller without action scenes and mostly set in a handful of relatively confined locations, so it is definitely not like a James Bond or Mission Impossible-style spy movie. For patient and sophisticated viewers who enjoy a lot of cleverness with their mystery and intrigue, "Black Bag" will prove to be an entertaining watch. The cast is generally pretty good, especially Michael Fassbender and Cate Blanchett, who are the two leads.
The film feels stylish and polished despite its small scale and brief running time. Soderbergh's deft direction keeps things running quickly and efficiently, paying special attention to the psychological and intuitive motives of the characters. The plot developments aren't particularly unique compared to other spy films, which is what holds back "Black Bag" from being truly great, but its commitment to creating intriguing narrative tension in an entertaining way and at a small scale is commendable. Recommended. 7/10.
The film feels stylish and polished despite its small scale and brief running time. Soderbergh's deft direction keeps things running quickly and efficiently, paying special attention to the psychological and intuitive motives of the characters. The plot developments aren't particularly unique compared to other spy films, which is what holds back "Black Bag" from being truly great, but its commitment to creating intriguing narrative tension in an entertaining way and at a small scale is commendable. Recommended. 7/10.
- bastille-852-731547
- 13. März 2025
- Permalink
This film was so bad, it motivated me to write this review. The most disappointing thing about it all is 99% of reviews here make this film seem amazing and genre-defining - did you watch the same film as me? I get the feeling people want to like it more than they actually do, because you all can't be serious. Let's be real!
I booked a ticket for early afternoon, and I was fighting myself to stay awake - maybe because visually it's dark most of the time but primarily because I got bored of waiting for something to happen. Then towards the end it seems like the film-makers realised it's not going well so let's wrap it up - like when a comedian leaves the stage early because there's nobody in the abyss laughing back. I've been so and so, and you've been great.
How is this at 7.3 right now? I usually trust IMDb ratings as fairly accurate - they're more often than not a good barometer of what to expect. I'm questioning myself if I'm deluded or I missed something because I seem to be the only one not taken by it. I wanted to love it - I spent good money to have a nice day, and I regret it so much. There is not one memorable moment that happens in approx 90mins. For a film like this with a cast and budget and director like this, you'd have assumed 90mins would be too short and it would fly by - it seemed about 85 minutes too long. I think of this movie sometimes when I want to be irritated with myself or be able to fall asleep quickly.
Who greenlighted this? A $50million budget is ridiculous, I'm convinced it must be some type of money laundering scheme because it was all so pointless - you haven't added anything to the genre and you've taken 90mins away from people. I'd respect the makers more if they decided not to make the film and instead do something more productive with $50million like give it to film school students who may have a film idea that actually moves people.
Please, if you value your time and you want going to the cinema to be an event for you - avoid this at all costs!
I booked a ticket for early afternoon, and I was fighting myself to stay awake - maybe because visually it's dark most of the time but primarily because I got bored of waiting for something to happen. Then towards the end it seems like the film-makers realised it's not going well so let's wrap it up - like when a comedian leaves the stage early because there's nobody in the abyss laughing back. I've been so and so, and you've been great.
How is this at 7.3 right now? I usually trust IMDb ratings as fairly accurate - they're more often than not a good barometer of what to expect. I'm questioning myself if I'm deluded or I missed something because I seem to be the only one not taken by it. I wanted to love it - I spent good money to have a nice day, and I regret it so much. There is not one memorable moment that happens in approx 90mins. For a film like this with a cast and budget and director like this, you'd have assumed 90mins would be too short and it would fly by - it seemed about 85 minutes too long. I think of this movie sometimes when I want to be irritated with myself or be able to fall asleep quickly.
Who greenlighted this? A $50million budget is ridiculous, I'm convinced it must be some type of money laundering scheme because it was all so pointless - you haven't added anything to the genre and you've taken 90mins away from people. I'd respect the makers more if they decided not to make the film and instead do something more productive with $50million like give it to film school students who may have a film idea that actually moves people.
Please, if you value your time and you want going to the cinema to be an event for you - avoid this at all costs!
And now...a film for adults.
Amidst the sequels, Super Hero Flicks, gratuitous violence and horror films, an original I. P. film with A-List stars, an interesting script and a good director has, somehow, snuck it's way into our local Mega-plex.
And...BLACK BAG is well worth your time.
Directed by Steven Soderbergh (ERIN BROCKOVICH), BLACK BAG is based on an original script by David Koepp (the first Tom Cruise MISSION IMPOSSIBLE film) and tells the tale of a British Spy (Michael Fassbender) who must ferret out a traitor in their midst amongst 5 potential candidates - one of which is his wife (Cate Blanchett).
And not a shootout in site!
This might seem like a set-up similar to the Brad Pitt/Angelina Jolie shoot-em-up MR. & MRS. SMITH from 2005, but instead of resorting to violence the spies in this thriller do what they do best - they use their spy abilities to outthink/outwit and outplay their opponents.
What a refreshing change.
Soderbergh directs this whoddunit with professional ease, letting the pace of the scenes set the pace of this film - therefore, the movie moves along at a deliberate pace that makes the 1 hour and 33 minute film feel a little bit longer.
But, that's not (necessarily) a bad thing.
That is because this film has 2x Oscar Nominee Fassbender and 2x Oscar Winner Blanchett as it's 2 leads - and one could watch these 2 play spy games against each other all day. The only down side is that, by plotline necessity, these 2 spend most of their time away from each other, so when they are together, the screen crackles with tension/excitement. It would have been fun to have these 2 confront each other mid-way through the film (a la the DeNiro/Pacino Diner Scene in HEAT), but Soderbergh is a smarter director than that and, wisely, avoids the temptation to do this to keep the rhythm of the mystery story going.
Fassbender and Blanchett are joined by Tom Burke (MANK), Marisa Abela (BARBIE), Rege-Jean Page (BRIDGERTON) and Naomi Harris (MOONLIGHT) as the other suspects/allies and since these 4 need to go toe-to-toe with Fassbender and/or Blanchett, their performances are as good as I've seen from any of them thus far.
Oh, and did I mention Pierce Brosnan (you know, REMINGTON STEELE and a film icon named JAMES BOND) as the boss of all of them. This is an actor who has become more and more interesting the older he gets and this role gives him a chance to chew the scenery and be VERY interesting with the best of them. If the new producers of the next James Bond series doesn't consider making Brosnan the new "M", then they have missed an ideal opportunity.
Screenwriter Koepp has constructed an interesting - and grounded - whoddunit/thriller that gives all of the actors some choice scenes/speeches that are delivered under the careful, trusted vision of Soderbergh which equates to a very satisfying time in the movie theater.
Letter Grade: A- (it does move at a rather languid pace)
8 stars (out of 10) and you can take yhis to the Bank(ofMarquis)
Amidst the sequels, Super Hero Flicks, gratuitous violence and horror films, an original I. P. film with A-List stars, an interesting script and a good director has, somehow, snuck it's way into our local Mega-plex.
And...BLACK BAG is well worth your time.
Directed by Steven Soderbergh (ERIN BROCKOVICH), BLACK BAG is based on an original script by David Koepp (the first Tom Cruise MISSION IMPOSSIBLE film) and tells the tale of a British Spy (Michael Fassbender) who must ferret out a traitor in their midst amongst 5 potential candidates - one of which is his wife (Cate Blanchett).
And not a shootout in site!
This might seem like a set-up similar to the Brad Pitt/Angelina Jolie shoot-em-up MR. & MRS. SMITH from 2005, but instead of resorting to violence the spies in this thriller do what they do best - they use their spy abilities to outthink/outwit and outplay their opponents.
What a refreshing change.
Soderbergh directs this whoddunit with professional ease, letting the pace of the scenes set the pace of this film - therefore, the movie moves along at a deliberate pace that makes the 1 hour and 33 minute film feel a little bit longer.
But, that's not (necessarily) a bad thing.
That is because this film has 2x Oscar Nominee Fassbender and 2x Oscar Winner Blanchett as it's 2 leads - and one could watch these 2 play spy games against each other all day. The only down side is that, by plotline necessity, these 2 spend most of their time away from each other, so when they are together, the screen crackles with tension/excitement. It would have been fun to have these 2 confront each other mid-way through the film (a la the DeNiro/Pacino Diner Scene in HEAT), but Soderbergh is a smarter director than that and, wisely, avoids the temptation to do this to keep the rhythm of the mystery story going.
Fassbender and Blanchett are joined by Tom Burke (MANK), Marisa Abela (BARBIE), Rege-Jean Page (BRIDGERTON) and Naomi Harris (MOONLIGHT) as the other suspects/allies and since these 4 need to go toe-to-toe with Fassbender and/or Blanchett, their performances are as good as I've seen from any of them thus far.
Oh, and did I mention Pierce Brosnan (you know, REMINGTON STEELE and a film icon named JAMES BOND) as the boss of all of them. This is an actor who has become more and more interesting the older he gets and this role gives him a chance to chew the scenery and be VERY interesting with the best of them. If the new producers of the next James Bond series doesn't consider making Brosnan the new "M", then they have missed an ideal opportunity.
Screenwriter Koepp has constructed an interesting - and grounded - whoddunit/thriller that gives all of the actors some choice scenes/speeches that are delivered under the careful, trusted vision of Soderbergh which equates to a very satisfying time in the movie theater.
Letter Grade: A- (it does move at a rather languid pace)
8 stars (out of 10) and you can take yhis to the Bank(ofMarquis)
- bankofmarquis
- 15. März 2025
- Permalink
- monteaustin
- 29. März 2025
- Permalink
Steven Soderbergh's Black Bag attempts to be a gripping spy thriller but instead delivers a tedious, confusing, and lifeless experience. The convoluted plot, centered on intelligence agents George and Kathryn Woodhouse, is incoherent, making it difficult to stay engaged. Even with a strong cast, performances feel flat. Any positive reviews must be from people who worked on it because no objective viewer could find much to praise. The film lacks suspense, its twists are predictable, and it drags endlessly. Black Bag will soon land on streaming-in the bargain section, where it rightfully belongs.
I have to confess that I have tried my best to sit through watching it, but I failed...gladly.
I don't know why this movie, with several men and women sitting around a dinner table, kept blabbering to each other, would cost and consume 50 million dollars to make. How much did the producers pay each of these actors to sit down? Maybe they spent a lot of the movie budget just for the black plastic glass frame for the guy, even if it looked so unnecessary and so fake on his face?
I have also found that the dialogue of this movie is just so irrelevant to me. I couldn't even understand what it meant, maybe not just to the participant actors who could ingeniously memorize the wtf? Dialogue, but to a lot of the viewers, including me. I have watched some movies with only two actors sitting facing each other and talking from the very beginning to the end, but I found them so interesting and never lost my focus. But the dialogue of this Black Bag, with more people talking to each other, I didn't even know what they were talking about and couldn't care less.
Black Bag (2025) would be one of the most tedious and meaningless movies that I have watched in the last 50 years.
Cate Blanchett didn't age well and did an abysmal facelift job that almost made her unrecognizable and tough to look at.
I don't know why this movie, with several men and women sitting around a dinner table, kept blabbering to each other, would cost and consume 50 million dollars to make. How much did the producers pay each of these actors to sit down? Maybe they spent a lot of the movie budget just for the black plastic glass frame for the guy, even if it looked so unnecessary and so fake on his face?
I have also found that the dialogue of this movie is just so irrelevant to me. I couldn't even understand what it meant, maybe not just to the participant actors who could ingeniously memorize the wtf? Dialogue, but to a lot of the viewers, including me. I have watched some movies with only two actors sitting facing each other and talking from the very beginning to the end, but I found them so interesting and never lost my focus. But the dialogue of this Black Bag, with more people talking to each other, I didn't even know what they were talking about and couldn't care less.
Black Bag (2025) would be one of the most tedious and meaningless movies that I have watched in the last 50 years.
Cate Blanchett didn't age well and did an abysmal facelift job that almost made her unrecognizable and tough to look at.
- MovieIQTest
- 3. Apr. 2025
- Permalink
It started off slow and it is difficult to understand their accents in the opening dinner scene, but it finished off strong towards the end. Don't expect a lot of action but good narrative. Fassbender plays a good robot agent that makes Spock look really human. Typical Soderbergh movie with the pacing of an Ocean's 11 type movie but with a lot less comedy and minimal twists and turns. Blanchett and Fassbender have minimal chemistry, but maybe that was more of a lack of character development in the script. Seems like it should have been a Hulu release as releasing it in the big screen seems a waste. They wasted Pierce Brosnan as an actor for his minimal role.
- mmdchavez16
- 19. März 2025
- Permalink
This movie was ok but not great. It is a little slow moving and cerebral. It's not a bad movie, but would definitely be better watching on tv at home. We left the theater feeling a little cheated. The cost of going to a movie and ease of streaming now make a higher hurdle to clear for me.
I liked the acting. The camera work, dialogue, and sets were cool. The story was a little weak and could've used some action to lift it. The good thing is the run time is short...about 90 minutes.
I think it is better than average, but don't believe that's a great selling point. If you go, you won't be upset, but you also won't leave feeling satisfied.
I liked the acting. The camera work, dialogue, and sets were cool. The story was a little weak and could've used some action to lift it. The good thing is the run time is short...about 90 minutes.
I think it is better than average, but don't believe that's a great selling point. If you go, you won't be upset, but you also won't leave feeling satisfied.
- brynnharms
- 31. März 2025
- Permalink
As a movie its too short.
The build up is too quick and by the time you understand what's going on, you find yourself at the final scene, It felt like it was rushed but probably only because I am used to hour long episodes in 10 episode series.
I mostly enjoyed it but it felt rushed, and I literally had to pause it from time to time and go back, to get my bearings.
I think this would have been better as a short series, with a proper build up and more chance for exploring the twisted relationships and intrigue. It would have heightened the suspense and have room for some more character building.
The build up is too quick and by the time you understand what's going on, you find yourself at the final scene, It felt like it was rushed but probably only because I am used to hour long episodes in 10 episode series.
I mostly enjoyed it but it felt rushed, and I literally had to pause it from time to time and go back, to get my bearings.
I think this would have been better as a short series, with a proper build up and more chance for exploring the twisted relationships and intrigue. It would have heightened the suspense and have room for some more character building.
- shoomkloom
- 17. Apr. 2025
- Permalink
Yeah, itsss sort of a serious semi-realistic James Bond in high metropolitan life. While I like the artists involved, most of them play it quite well. The main negative entrance in the genre is Cat Blanchet though. She usually plays high drama roles and somewhat ironic twists, doing it very well.
Unfortunately, for me, her role as the dismantled Queen of England in medieval setting overshadows everything else. She absolutely showed sheer brilliance in that movie and a larger than life real woman of real decadence and love of life
Here, she really goes dark every time she tries hard, failing the part badly. Michael Fastbender does well and quietly carries a bit of swagger of investigative mind, but not tto great either. The movie is slow and sort of interesting at times, but so "pretensively modern life" that it leaves me with no choice but to walk out of it.
Unfortunately, for me, her role as the dismantled Queen of England in medieval setting overshadows everything else. She absolutely showed sheer brilliance in that movie and a larger than life real woman of real decadence and love of life
Here, she really goes dark every time she tries hard, failing the part badly. Michael Fastbender does well and quietly carries a bit of swagger of investigative mind, but not tto great either. The movie is slow and sort of interesting at times, but so "pretensively modern life" that it leaves me with no choice but to walk out of it.
The movie had a premise. See if you can spot the liar. That was the mindset I took from the movie. All it took was a dinner scene to spot the traitor, I had a lot of fun watching the movie. Michael Fassbender, Cate Blanchett, Marisa Abella, Rege Jean Page, Naomie Harris, and Tom Burke were extraordinarily good actors. I can't deny how great it was. The polygraph scene was the best and how the twist began during the end was truly amazing reveal. I didn't care that they talked a lot or that there was only a few action scenes. I cared more about Michael and Cate's character development because they knew they were setup. I got to love that Pierce Bronson was in the movie too.
- gcarpiceci
- 11. März 2025
- Permalink
We had high expectations. But they remain unfulfilled. This film is short. Lots and lots and lots of talking. Very little action. It ended suddenly leaving you with a "what was that about" feeling. Excellent cast but the plot? No idea. No idea what was going on as the dialogue was all so coded. The plot was extremely opaque. It is assumed somehow that you will understand what is going on by some sort of magical process. I am not stupid. I have a Masters Degree. Work in high end finance. I get complexity. The plot line is not complex. It is simply not evident at all. All 4 of us in our group left the cinema saying what the hell was that all about? Save your money. Give it a hard pass. One for the TV only.
- martinstewartsmith
- 26. März 2025
- Permalink
Absolutely amazing movie, leaves you guessing most of the movie. The opening dinner scene was an incredible way to start the movie, turns your idea of these morally right characters into the morally unjust tone the rest of the movie comes with. Michael Fassbender is one of my favorite actors in cinema with his character having that underlying tone of seriousness that most of his roles entail. The relationship and chemistry between George and Kathryn was unmatched with the director making you believe that there was somewhat of a betrayal going on but deep down knowing that they would "Kill for eachother" meaning that they wouldn't betray each other. The class of the movie and its characters was almost inspirational having you leaving the theater wanting to be more like what these characters are maybe not there moral compass per se but the day day to outfits and class in which the main "Spy's" carried themselves with. It gave resemblance to the class in the movie "The Gentleman". Overall was a great movie where I felt I left with more than what the plot held.
- steventaustin
- 12. März 2025
- Permalink
LIKES:
Smart Writing
Great Acting
Beautifully Shot
Dark Humor Integrated Well
A Layered Plot
Realism, Or Close To It
Shorter Run Time
Summary:
Black Bag is a smart film about the details and piecing together the little clues to figure out the grand scheme. A character-centric tale, one has to understand each of the profiles of the characters involved with Project Severus and figure out just how involved they were and the angles involved. It's a deep, convoluted tale that requires you to listen to everything, each scene holding some insight to help get you to the end and figure out who did the deed. It has an intense dialog that feels welcome in the spy world, and many superfans of the espionage genre should enjoy it to help immerse you further into the plot. I felt this was decently real, only dropping into the Hollywood theatrics occasionally to add that thrill aspect. Such tones keep it grounded and let the acting and characters do most of the heavy lifting rather than the special effects. To help give the characters some polish and diversity, especially in a building where everyone seems to be of the same cloth, Soderbergh and Koepp have granted their characters fun little elements to give them a few quirks to shake things up. A few of them have dark comedy elements to their name, an edge that gets wedged into the scenes at just the right moments to be fun and add a little more humor to the mix. Not too much; Black Bag keeps this in check to never let it consume the movie. To no surprise, it requires a lot of talent to bring such focus to life, and our cast has accomplished much in this project. Fassbender, in particular, is captivating; that elegance in his performance curtailed into the spy role well without requiring the elaborate theatrics other characters have required of him. He's got such craft in his delivery of the lines, his mannerisms a wonderful compliment to his words as he brings the full weight of the role to life. Blanchett also delivers her role with finesse and hardcore edge. I just had hoped for more time with her character's arc in searching for the answers. The scenes we do get hold of plenty of wisecracking jabs and a control of the situation, but yet there is more to her character in other key moments. Finally, the movie accomplishes all of this with stunning cinematography work to help unleash the gripping emotion that such a job holds. Excellent use of filters alongside those perfect frames of face capture so much effortlessly that they lend themselves a large amount of the acting themselves.
DISLIKES: Dense Sort of Confusing At Times Lots Of Dialog A Bit Underwhelming In Reveals Pierce Brosnan Not Well-Utilized Not Really That Suspenseful.
Summary: Black Bag is not one of these movies to get lost in for pure enjoyment, though. It's a movie that requires you to pay attention; no phones, no sleepiness, and no half-hearted efforts to watch the movie. Black Bag has a lot of information hidden in plain sight, so to speak, and to uncover everything before the reveal requires full focus on the story and performances. As engaging as it is, the patient does hold confusion with it, the beginning throwing so many pieces of information and intros that you have to keep track of. The dense material can be less exciting than other spy films, and I didn't feel the edge in this movie that any deadline or timeline was spelling out impending doom. Lacking such excitement is going to limit the audience members who will like this, and I do encourage you not to watch this if you are tired just in case you have to fight sleep with the heavy dialog you have to wade through as the movie continues. When the big reveal does come up, I can't say it was the most amazing twist I've seen, and I can't say that me solving it beforehand offered any reward. That realistic revelation sort of felt lacking of the big climactic punch, which again may limit how many people are ready to run to the theaters to see it. Finally, as mentioned above, not every character has equal use, and one of these characters, played by Pierce Brosnan, was one that felt very underutilized. So much potential in the character. Brosnan shows what he can bring to the table; he just needs more time and involvement. A shame, given his talent.
The VERDICT: I appreciate and love so much of the layered elements that Black Bag had to offer. The intelligence behind this film is engaging, the realism in particular fitting very well into the current trend of such drama thrillers on streaming platforms. Fantastic performances with well-written dialog to play with. It's a movie that engages the brain to help you find the answers and a movie that wants you to attach yourself to the characters. Soderbergh's direction is executed to a quality level on many elements, and for a fan of his work, this movie fits well into the collection. Yet, because of all the strengths, the movie is convoluted, dry, and perhaps not entertaining for a general night out or watching when one is low on energy. Black Bag's realism makes the revelation less spectacular, as well as lacking that super-suspenseful timeline these movies thrive on for a viewer like me. Throw in some character imbalances and story components that needed more time, and you get a film that loses some of the artistic sheen the trailers granted it. This feels much better in book form or would have done well as a twelve-episode season/series. Is it worth a trip to the theaters? For those who love a realistic drama and spy epic, this is the movie worth a trip for the quality, but most I believe will like this at the comfort of their own homes.
My Scores: Spy/Drama/Thriller: 7.5 Movie Overall: 7.0.
DISLIKES: Dense Sort of Confusing At Times Lots Of Dialog A Bit Underwhelming In Reveals Pierce Brosnan Not Well-Utilized Not Really That Suspenseful.
Summary: Black Bag is not one of these movies to get lost in for pure enjoyment, though. It's a movie that requires you to pay attention; no phones, no sleepiness, and no half-hearted efforts to watch the movie. Black Bag has a lot of information hidden in plain sight, so to speak, and to uncover everything before the reveal requires full focus on the story and performances. As engaging as it is, the patient does hold confusion with it, the beginning throwing so many pieces of information and intros that you have to keep track of. The dense material can be less exciting than other spy films, and I didn't feel the edge in this movie that any deadline or timeline was spelling out impending doom. Lacking such excitement is going to limit the audience members who will like this, and I do encourage you not to watch this if you are tired just in case you have to fight sleep with the heavy dialog you have to wade through as the movie continues. When the big reveal does come up, I can't say it was the most amazing twist I've seen, and I can't say that me solving it beforehand offered any reward. That realistic revelation sort of felt lacking of the big climactic punch, which again may limit how many people are ready to run to the theaters to see it. Finally, as mentioned above, not every character has equal use, and one of these characters, played by Pierce Brosnan, was one that felt very underutilized. So much potential in the character. Brosnan shows what he can bring to the table; he just needs more time and involvement. A shame, given his talent.
The VERDICT: I appreciate and love so much of the layered elements that Black Bag had to offer. The intelligence behind this film is engaging, the realism in particular fitting very well into the current trend of such drama thrillers on streaming platforms. Fantastic performances with well-written dialog to play with. It's a movie that engages the brain to help you find the answers and a movie that wants you to attach yourself to the characters. Soderbergh's direction is executed to a quality level on many elements, and for a fan of his work, this movie fits well into the collection. Yet, because of all the strengths, the movie is convoluted, dry, and perhaps not entertaining for a general night out or watching when one is low on energy. Black Bag's realism makes the revelation less spectacular, as well as lacking that super-suspenseful timeline these movies thrive on for a viewer like me. Throw in some character imbalances and story components that needed more time, and you get a film that loses some of the artistic sheen the trailers granted it. This feels much better in book form or would have done well as a twelve-episode season/series. Is it worth a trip to the theaters? For those who love a realistic drama and spy epic, this is the movie worth a trip for the quality, but most I believe will like this at the comfort of their own homes.
My Scores: Spy/Drama/Thriller: 7.5 Movie Overall: 7.0.
Absolutely awful audio and dialogue. They all speak with their mouths closed mumbling and it's impossible to hear them. There is hardly any soundtrack and when there is it is absolutely awful weird jazz. Horrible. It's not worth watching, I had to walk out.
It was advertised as a spy thing but it had no excitement to it at all.
A huge waste of money and really put me off going to the cinema ever again.
Honestly, why are they all speaking in that affected posh accent and why are they are speaking so quietly? What was the audio mixer thinking?
It definitely needs closed captions because it was actually impossible and maddening and irritating to watch. I am so disappointed.
They should all be ashamed of themselves. Also, all the characters are incredibly hateable. I hated them all so much!
Save your money! Don't go to see it.
TLDR: Atrocious audio, dialogue, soundtrack and all mumbling. Absolutely awful acting in hushed tones. Horrible weird jazz soundtrack which is basically so rare it's almost no soundtrack.
It was advertised as a spy thing but it had no excitement to it at all.
A huge waste of money and really put me off going to the cinema ever again.
Honestly, why are they all speaking in that affected posh accent and why are they are speaking so quietly? What was the audio mixer thinking?
It definitely needs closed captions because it was actually impossible and maddening and irritating to watch. I am so disappointed.
They should all be ashamed of themselves. Also, all the characters are incredibly hateable. I hated them all so much!
Save your money! Don't go to see it.
TLDR: Atrocious audio, dialogue, soundtrack and all mumbling. Absolutely awful acting in hushed tones. Horrible weird jazz soundtrack which is basically so rare it's almost no soundtrack.