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Set and based on the television series from the 60’s, top agent to the C.I.A., Solo (Henry Cavill), and top agent from the K.G.B., Illya (Armie Hammer) are forced to work together despite their mutual disdain for each other in an effort to put an end to the plans of an evil superpower bent on developing, selling, and detonating nuclear arms. Meanwhile, the mysterious and alluring, Gabby (Alicia Vikander), works in concert with the two but has a few tricks up her own sleeve. Will the team succeed in their mission or will the black widow-esque Victoria (Elizabeth Debicki) and her crew outplay the united forces? Only time will tell. Directed and partially written by Guy Ritchie, this stylized spy thriller pays great homage to one of the lesser known spy franchises of the mid 60’s. Stiff dialogue with dry but well placed humor is sure to bring smiles to those in the know. Told with a lighter hand than previous work, Ritchie’s cinematic vision to U.N.C.L.E. maintains his rapid pacing and lean screenwriting but has a broader reach than say the testosterone driven Snatch from 2000. Hammer, Cavill and Vikander as a team all compliment each other nicely in their roles, a winning combo for a follow up? Fun for spy lovers and those needing an escape back to when a spy spoke with panache and dressed to kill, worth your time. The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is rated PG-13.

Recounting the history of N.W.A., the most influential hard core rap act dating back to the mid 80’s, Straight Outta Compton is the story of household names Easy-E (Jason Mitchell) , Ice Cube (O’Shea Jackson Jr.), Dr. Dre (Corey Hawkins), DJ Yella(Neil Brown Jr.), and MC Ren (Aldis Hodge), their rise to fame, fall from grace, and discovery of brotherhood despite adversity and disagreements. Directed by F. Gary Gray Straight Outta Compton recalls a collection of historical beats from the group’s past, some a little over romanticized, but none the less important signposts along the way for all parties involved; and, despite the occasional forced moments and dramatic license, a truly heart felt film still resides inside. Solid portrayals of each of the artists is appreciated, btw that really is Ice Cube’s son playing the role of Ice Cube, a chip off the old block one might say. Great insight to the stories behind the lyrics of the group adds further depth and meaning to a number of the band’s larger hits– all done without the VH1 behind the music feel, but rather, something that feels more organic and less stiff upper lip. A solid suggestion for fans of the music this weekend, Straight Outta Compton is rated R.