Hollywood loves a good spy thriller, and Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre delivers just that. Directed by Guy Ritchie, this 2023 action-comedy packs a punch with its star-studded cast, globe-trotting adventure, and clever twists. Featuring Jason Statham as the suave superspy Orson Fortune, alongside Aubrey Plaza, Hugh Grant, and Josh Hartnett, the film blends high-octane action with sharp humor. Since its release, it has sparked conversations among fans and critics alike. Let’s dive into the world of Operation Fortune, exploring its plot, production, reception, and lasting impact.
The Plot: A High-Stakes Spy Game
Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre centers on Orson Fortune, a skilled private contractor hired by the British government. His mission? Recover a stolen device called “The Handle,” a mysterious piece of technology worth billions. A gang of Ukrainian mobsters swipes the device, and billionaire arms dealer Greg Simmonds (Hugh Grant) plans to sell it to the highest bidder. Fortune assembles a crack team of operatives, including tech whiz Sarah Fidel (Aubrey Plaza) and weapons expert J.J. Davies (Bugzy Malone). To infiltrate Simmonds’ inner circle, they recruit Hollywood heartthrob Danny Francesco (Josh Hartnett), leveraging his fame to get close to the villain.
The story unfolds across exotic locations like Antalya, Cannes, and Qatar. Fortune’s team navigates dangerous deals, double-crosses, and explosive action sequences. The plot keeps viewers guessing about the contents of The Handle, revealed only halfway through the film. Ritchie’s signature style—fast-paced dialogue, slick visuals, and nonlinear storytelling—drives the narrative. While the mission to save the world feels familiar, the film’s humor and charisma set it apart. For instance, Danny’s bumbling attempts to play spy add a lighthearted touch to the tension.
Moreover, the film balances action with comedy. Fortune’s phobia-ridden personality clashes with his tough-guy persona, creating amusing moments. Sarah’s deadpan sarcasm and Greg’s smarmy charm further elevate the dynamic. Consequently, the plot feels like a mix of Mission: Impossible and The Man from U.N.C.L.E., but with Ritchie’s gritty flair. Fans of spy capers will find plenty to enjoy, even if the story doesn’t reinvent the genre.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Spy Spectacle
Development and Casting
Guy Ritchie, known for films like Snatch and The Gentlemen, co-wrote and directed Operation Fortune. He collaborated with writers Ivan Atkinson and Marn Davies to craft a script that blends espionage with humor. Initially titled Five Eyes (a nod to the real-life intelligence alliance), the film adopted its current name in September 2021. Ritchie’s vision was clear: create a fun, stylish thriller that showcases his knack for quirky characters and sharp dialogue.
Casting was a major draw. Jason Statham, a Ritchie regular since Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, embodies Orson Fortune with his trademark stoicism and charm. Aubrey Plaza, fresh off Ingrid Goes West, brings her sardonic wit to Sarah Fidel. Hugh Grant, embracing his villainous streak from The Gentlemen, plays Greg Simmonds with gleeful menace. Josh Hartnett, making a comeback, adds a comedic edge as Danny Francesco. Additionally, Cary Elwes and Bugzy Malone round out the ensemble, each contributing to the film’s eclectic vibe.
Filming Challenges
Production began in January 2021, with filming in Antalya, Turkey, Farnborough, UK, and Qatar. The team faced logistical hurdles due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including strict safety protocols. Furthermore, the film’s original release date of January 2022 was delayed. Reports suggest the delay stemmed from the Russo-Ukrainian War, as the film’s Ukrainian mobster antagonists raised concerns about sensitivity. Producers opted to push the release to avoid backlash, a decision that sparked debate among fans.
Despite these challenges, Ritchie’s crew delivered stunning visuals. The film’s bright, commercial-like aesthetic—complete with mega-yachts, luxe hotels, and fancy parties—creates a glamorous backdrop. Action scenes, from shootouts to high-speed chases, showcase Ritchie’s flair for kinetic storytelling. For example, an opening sequence pairs a silent, slapstick shootout with the sound of tapping footsteps, setting a playful tone.
Production and Release
Lionsgate and MIRAMAX backed the project, with STX Entertainment initially set to distribute. However, STX’s financial troubles led to Lionsgate taking over. The film hit international theaters on January 4, 2023, and the U.S. on March 3, 2023. It later streamed on Amazon Prime Video in the UK starting April 7, 2023. Digital downloads became available on March 21, followed by Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K UHD releases on May 16.
The rollout was rocky. The film’s removal from its March 2022 schedule fueled speculation. Some believed it clashed with The Batman’s release, while others pointed to the Ukrainian controversy. Nevertheless, Operation Fortune found its audience, grossing $49 million worldwide against a $50 million budget. While not a blockbuster, it performed decently for a mid-tier action flick.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics’ Take
Critics gave Operation Fortune mixed reviews, with a 51% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 151 reviews. The consensus? It doesn’t match top-tier spy films but offers enough thrills for casual viewers. Many praised the cast’s chemistry, particularly Plaza and Grant’s standout performances. John Li of Geek Culture gave it a 7.4/10, lauding Statham’s charisma and the plot’s energy. The Guardian called it “slick and silly,” highlighting Ritchie’s infectious enthusiasm.
However, some critics found fault. Pat Brown of Slant Magazine gave it 1/4 stars, arguing it lacked colorful characters and a coherent plot. The Los Angeles Times dubbed it a “Mission: Impossible* facsimile,” criticizing its thin story and over-editing. Roger Ebert’s site noted a lack of stakes and eccentricity, calling it “weirdly empty.” Despite these critiques, the film’s B+ CinemaScore suggests audiences enjoyed its lighthearted vibe.
Audience Buzz
Fans embraced Operation Fortune for its escapist fun. Social media platforms like X buzzed with praise for the cast and action sequences. Viewers called it a “Saturday matinee gem,” perfect for those craving a break from heavy dramas. Aubrey Plaza’s sarcastic quips and Hugh Grant’s villainous turn earned particular love. For instance, one X post raved, “Plaza steals every scene she’s in!” Meanwhile, Statham fans relished his signature fight scenes, even if some felt the humor fell flat.
The film’s release timing helped. After a 2022 dominated by sequels like Top Gun: Maverick, audiences welcomed an original story. Its blend of action and comedy appealed to Ritchie’s fanbase, though some wished for the gritty edge of his earlier work. Overall, it carved a niche as a crowd-pleaser, even if it didn’t break box office records.
Themes and Style: Ritchie’s Signature Touch
Macho Humor and Stylized Action
Ritchie’s films often blend macho humor with stylized visuals, and Operation Fortune is no exception. The dialogue crackles with witty banter, from Sarah’s deadpan jabs to Greg’s cockney swagger. Action scenes, like a rocket-fueled chase, prioritize flair over realism. Ritchie’s use of freeze-frames, quick cuts, and bold graphics gives the film a comic-book feel. For example, location tags like “London, ENGLAND” add a cheeky touch.
The film also pokes fun at spy tropes. Danny’s ineptitude as a “spy” contrasts with Fortune’s cool competence, creating a playful dynamic. Similarly, the mysterious briefcase—a classic MacGuffin—keeps the plot moving without bogging it down. These elements make Operation Fortune a love letter to the genre, even if it doesn’t delve into deep themes.
Moral Undertones
While primarily a fun romp, the film touches on morality. Fortune’s team operates outside official channels, raising questions about loyalty and justice. Greg’s greed-driven villainy contrasts with the team’s mission to protect the world. A review from Hope 103.2 noted the film’s “moral center,” suggesting characters grapple with right and wrong, even in a world of deception. However, these themes take a backseat to the action and humor, keeping the tone light.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Operation Fortune didn’t spark a franchise, but it left a mark. Its diverse cast and global settings reflect Hollywood’s push for inclusive, accessible stories. Plaza’s role as a tech-savvy operative challenges gender stereotypes, though some critics wished her character had more depth. Grant’s reinvention as a villain further cements his versatility, while Hartnett’s return signals a career resurgence.
The film also highlights Ritchie’s evolution. After big-budget flops like Aladdin, he’s returned to leaner, character-driven stories. Operation Fortune proves he can still deliver crowd-pleasing entertainment. Its streaming success on Amazon Prime suggests a growing appetite for mid-budget action films in the post-COVID era. As one X user put it, “It’s not Snatch, but it’s a blast.”
Looking ahead, Ritchie’s next project, Fountain of Youth, stars John Krasinski and Natalie Portman. If Operation Fortune is any indication, he’ll continue blending action, humor, and star power. For now, the film remains a solid addition to his filmography, offering fans a thrilling escape.
FAQs About Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre
What is Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre about?
Sasha The film follows super spy Orson Fortune (Jason Statham) as he leads a team to recover a stolen device called The Handle. Teamed with operatives Sarah Fidel (Aubrey Plaza) and J.J. Davies (Bugzy Malone), Fortune recruits movie star Danny Francesco (Josh Hartnett) to infiltrate the world of arms dealer Greg Simmonds (Hugh Grant). The mission takes them across the globe, blending action, comedy, and espionage.
Why was the film’s release delayed?
A Man Called Originally set for January 2022, Operation Fortune faced multiple delays. STX Entertainment’s financial issues and a crowded release schedule, including The Batman, played a role. Additionally, the film’s Ukrainian mobster antagonists raised concerns amid the Russo-Ukrainian War, prompting producers to postpone the release to avoid controversy.
How did critics and audiences respond to the film?
Oculus Critics gave mixed reviews, with a 51% Rotten Tomatoes score, praising the cast but critiquing the thin plot. Audiences, however, enjoyed its fun vibe, giving it a B+ CinemaScore. Fans on platforms like X lauded the action and humor, particularly Plaza and Grant’s performances, making it a hit for casual viewers.
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