Deep Cover, 2025.
Directed by Tom Kingsley.
Starring Bryce Dallas Howard, Orlando Bloom, Nick Mohammed, Paddy Considine, Ian McShane, and Sean Bean.
SYNOPSIS:
Three improv actors are asked to go undercover by the police in London’s criminal underworld.
Tom Kingsley has made a name for himself on British television, on the likes of Stath Lets Flats, Ghosts and This Is Going To Hurt, showing an aptitude for both comedy and drama. His latest film is Deep Cover, an Amazon original comedy with an eclectic cast anchored by Bryce Dallas Howard, Orlando Bloom and Nick Mohammed, which follows our central trio, a set of amateur improv comedians struggling to make ends meet. When they are offered decent money to infiltrate a criminal drug smuggling organisation, they jump at the chance but have they got in over their head? The answer of course yes.
The lead three actors have compelling chemistry; Howard and Mohammed are perhaps more known for their comedic timing, but its Bloom who is the real standout here. He revels in his opportunities to impersonate a Mancunian hardman with his character Marlon determined to play a proper role. The film is also bolstered by a strong supporting cast including Sean Bean as the trio’s handler, Paddy Considine as their mark and Ian McShane as a nefarious crime boss. All lean into the silliness and are clearly having a blast. Meanwhile Daniel Pemberton once again proves why he is one of the most versatile composers working today with an energetic, propulsive score.
While the plot might be silly ultimately what makes Deep Cover work is the sense of fun and cast on top form. It is a lively, escapist romp that is likely to be a crowd pleaser. It feels quintessentially British, making the most of its London locations and distinct humour. The sharp pace and twists will keep audiences involved and it is a shame that it won’t play in cinemas where it would surely go down a storm as there is plenty to admire, showing Kingsley’s knack for comedy, and hopefully we see more from him on the big screen in future.
Deep Cover looks set to be a hit with fans of the cast and British comedy, with shades of The Outlaws with its fish out of water characters, and while it may not be the most original concept it makes the most of its preposterousness to keep the laughs and twists coming.
Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★
Chris Connor
