Two spies fall in love during the Second World War—but can they really trust one another? And, will their pasts catch up with them in the future?
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In the heat of Casablanca, a romance is also heating up between French spy Marianne Beauséjour (Marion Cotillard), and Canadian spy Max Vatan (Brad Pitt), who are assigned together on a life or death mission as husband and wife. Their attraction is immediate, but it’s hard to tell whether it’s all part of a well-trained façade, or whether the feelings are real.
When their mission is complete, they return to England and attempt to begin a life together. But, all is not as it seems—and as questions begin to be raised about their life before, their entire future becomes threatened.
Allied is an epic World War II romance and espionage thriller all wrapped in one. It captures the visual richness of the classics from which it is obviously inspired, and conveys action aplenty across an engaging two hours. At the centre of the story is the love affair, and the presence of doubt over its authenticity. But, the backdrop of a world at war is equally engaging.
Cotillard is stunning, and carries off the nuances of her double life with aplomb. While Pitt feels less at ease in the role, the two share ample chemistry to carry the film’s sweeping majesty and significant battle sequences.
Robert Zemeckis is a master storyteller, and his talents are not wasted here. Sadly, though, much of the discussion around the film has centred on Brad Pitt, following his very public breakup with wife Angelina Jolie. What should be discussed instead are the wonderful layers that are woven throughout, the incredible sweeping shots and the ode to a simpler, yet more tragic time in our world’s history.
If you love a classic romance, with a few twists and turns thrown in for good measure, Allied is a wonderful way to spend a few hours (especially in the heat of summer). Cotillard is majestic, and the careful storytelling of Zemeckis, combined with his ability to capture incredible shots, pairs wonderfully to create quite the spectacle.
Deserving of its Boxing Day prime billing, enjoy the sizzle and seduction of this espionage epic.
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Director: Robert Zemeckis
Stars: Marion Cotillard, Brad Pitt.
Runtime: 2 hours, 4 mins
Release Date: December 26
Rating: R
Reviewer Rating: 3.5/5
Feature image via pinterest