The Man from UNCLE: One of Our Spies is Missing
One of Our Spies Is Missing sees American UNCLE agent Napoleon Solo sent to London to investigate the mysterious rejuvenation of a scientist. This being the 1960s, it of course involves talking to models in a couture house to begin with. Meanwhile, his Russian colleague Ilya Kuryakin is investigating catnappings in Soho. You'd think that looking into cats going missing was rather beneath Kuryakin's level, wouldn't you? However, it's fortunate for UNCLE that he is involved in the Mystery of the Missing Moggies, as it appears the cats and rejuvenation process are linked, and tie into a THRUSH plot to manipulate politics.
If you've seen the TV series, it's an edited version of a two-part story from that, though it does feel rather different. There's a wonderfully 1960s soundtrack, including poppy renditions of 'Rule, Britannia' that lifts things rather. The film looks great; I expect many a gent will envy Solo and Kuryakin's sharp suits, even if they don't usually like vintage. (The forthcoming film also uses some vintage clothing, which should look great. I hope they do the 1960s originals justice.)
Don't know how I managed to miss hearing about the new movie, so thanks for pointing it out. I'll have to get my hands on a set of the old series to get the child caught-up on his classic television (we have a station that broadcasts old series, but I don't recall seeing Man from UNCLE on their schedule). This movie looks fun too.
ReplyDeleteI love the fact Danny gets to watch classic television. I'm now imagining it as part of his syllabus!
DeleteI have reasonable hopes of the film. Though they'll be hard pushed to equal the crumpetness of the real McCallum...
Another Fan from UNCLE checking in here (open channel D, please)! I've got the DVD box set of the films (two TV episodes edited together as you say) although oddly enough it doesn't include One Of Our Spies Is Missing. However it does include a couple of my other favourites - The Helicopter Spies and One Spy Too Many. I remember watching the TV series as a boy back in the late '80s/ early '90s when it was repeated on BBC2 on Fridays at 6:25pm (the reason I can remember is we used to sit and watch it with our fish & chip dinner!). I even used to play The Man From UNCLE with a friend (we made the cards and everything!) who sadly had a slight speech impediment so that we ended up fighting the evil crime syndicate FLUSH (now there's a parody in the making!). And since I was dark-haired and he blonde, I had to be Napoleon Solo and he was Ilya Kuryakin - and Ilya was always my favourite too (for his aloof, matter-of-fact nature I should add)! Although now I can see more of an attraction to the Solo character, if only for his dress sense.
ReplyDeleteI'm really looking forward to the film too - here's hoping Guy Ritchie can do for UNCLE what he did for Sherlock Holmes. And Henry Cavill looks and sounds fantastic in it. In fact you've just reminded me, Mim, that Hawes & Curtis has "partnered" with The Man From UNCLE to create a 1960s collection based on the outfits in the film. It could make another good sponsored post for my blog, what do you think?
Yes, Solo was quite the dandy. Though Kuryakin was my favourite. After losing so many 60s icons this year, I keep hoping McCallum with keep on going.
DeleteOh, do the clothes post! I reckon lots of people would find it interesting. I've only revently started to pay more attention to menswear - blame John Steed for that - and find it fascinating. The differences aren't as immediately obvious as with womenswear; you need a real eye for subtlety.
Have you been watching Agent Carter? A lot of attention has been paid to the Hayley Atwell's costumes in that, but I find the suits and, especially, ties on the gentlemen really interesting.
Mim,
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I have to admit: up until the moment I've read this post I haven't got the idea this was ever filmed. So; I owe you a massive THANKS darling.. and not only with this - you are the one who "monitors" the stations in UK and tells the world what to expect.. and I do expect. :)
I have been much more "active" back when I was not employed and when I haven't got all the house reconstruction drama.. so, nowadays, I leave the "search job" to others - like yourself, dear.
Many hugs from Serbia (still in a heat wave!)
Marija
I'm a dreadful square-eyes. I love films and telly... though I'm also not averse to a bit of radio too; I was listening to some 1950s Orson Welles radio plays last night. I knit along to it, so it's not a *complete* waste of time!
DeleteFunnily enough, I just spotted a poster for the remake film today, and then noticed it is directed by Guy Ritchie... So no, I'm not bouncing, I'm afraid! But the original series was good kitschy fun, of course. xxx
ReplyDeleteYeah, there is the Ritchie factor... But he seems to have a real love of the original, so I shall give him the benefit of the doubt for now.
DeleteDo you know that I have never seen either the TV series or any of the films? However, the fashion and style seem right up my particular alleyway so I will check this out when it comes to the cinema. Thank you for the recommendation. I am off to scour Netflix/You Tube for the originals. Xx
ReplyDeleteI just heard about this new film this week and I don't quite remember the originals that well, I vaguely remember repeats of the series being screened back in the '80s but I wasn't particularly into it at the time. I'd like to see the film now and explore a bit more of this! x
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