There are fight scenes galore, so there is some violence. With a major character completely unable to cope with gore and a 15 rating, however, it isn't unbearable. The stunt coordinators and choreographers worked well, as the fight scenes are exciting and aesthetically pleasing. A huge multi-character battle, most likely included for the sheer enjoyment factor, is outstanding and makes the most of the way fights can be choreographed. Some great slow motion moments and prop use make it an ironically beautiful scene.

Back to the haemophobic character, Samuel L. Jackson's Valentine is a complex and interesting villain. Blood phobia, a lisp, and an understandable end-goal, he is far from the illogical and two dimensional villains of many spy and crime films. Eggsy is, likewise, a well rounded hero. His homelife troubles, distrust of the posh Harry and relationship arcs with other characters (including a very cute little dog) make him easy to identify with and like.

Of course, this is not a high brow or modern classic film, but it is a very good and enjoyable afternoon film. It might not become your favourite but it's definitely a good choice for an entertaining movie night. It could have been the lack of expectations I had, but I really think this is well worth the time to watch on an otherwise uneventful day.

The intelligence of this film and the way genuinely funny moments are treated as non-events by characters is what makes this such an outstanding film. In between amusement, I found myself pondering the serious possibilities the film presents. Could one person cause a war like that? What would happen if nuclear bombs were used again, now so many countries have them? How safe are the safety measures? The opening ensures us what follows is impossible, but it's certainly a scary 'what if'.

For a Kubrick film, it doesn't have his signifying absurdity and the plot is easy to follow. He is a master directer and the use of lighting, shapes and angles is masterful. The dramatic light in the war room and the large, round table add to the drama that unfolds there. The bright naturalistic light in other scenes contrasts with the utter darkness of the situation.

Of course, you may just be looking for the classic with the iconic bomb-riding rather than a clever piece of historical satire. Yes, someone says "You can't fight in here, this is the war room!"; yes, Dr. Strangelove fights with his arm as it moves on it's own; yes, the cowboy-hat wearing fighter plane Major goes down with the bomb. You'll see those and more outstanding iconic moments when you watch this iconic film. If you haven't seen it, you can tick it off of your to-watch list.