9. The Man From U.N.C.L.E.
Lumped into a cinematic year with no shortage of Spy movies, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. wasnt as big a box office success as it couldve been. However, its an awful lot of fun, and a fair bit lighter than what that old chap 007 tends to offer these days. Brit blockbuster maestro Guy Ritchie is behind the camera (as well as producing through his own company, alongside Warner Bros and others), for one of his best films in years. Ritchie presents the viewer with visceral thrills against a stylishly recreated 1960s backdrop, and also wrangles memorable performances from his impressive cast. Particularly remarkable is British-born Man Of Steel star Henry Cavill, who shares top billing with Armie Hammer from The Lone Ranger and The Social Network. Cavill is far more charming here than he is as Snyder's brooding Superman, and he displays great comic timing in his bantering scenes with Hammer. The script, too, is strong. In a reboot of the classic Ian Fleming TV series, Cavill and Hammer play a reluctantly cooperating pair of secret agents (an American and a Russian, respectively) tasked with trying to avert nuclear destruction. This set-up allows a unique blend of odd couple humour and Cold War tension, resulting in a film that has your sides splitting as regularly as your nails need biting. Additionally, Alica Vikanda sizzles as the female lead Gaby Teller, who more than holds her own in this testosterone-filled globetrotting adventure. All in all, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. is an immensely fun film, and one with no shortage of sarcastic quips, thrilling chase scenes and eye candy for everyone (whether you love guys, gals, gadgets or snazzy set dressing).