What it's about:
It’s North Africa, 1942. Intelligence officer Max Vatan encounters a French Resistance fighter named Marianne Beausejour, on a deadly mission behind enemy lines. Once they’re reunited in London, their relationship is threatened by the extreme pressures of the war.
What we thought:
Allied is exactly the type of film I absolutely love. It’s got spies, romance and suspense all wrapped up in old school cinematic perfection. Like something from the golden age of Hollywood.
It’s clear that every scene, camera angle and bit of dialogue was perfectly crafted to fit into this masterpiece directed by Robert Zemeckis – perhaps best known for his directorial work in Forest Gump.
From the crooked streets of 1940’s Casablanca to the war torn cobblestone walkways of London, Allied is a beautifully told tale playing off in picturesque settings. This is complimented with immaculate styling that will leave you totally infatuated with the story and its characters.
Marion Cotillard as Marianne Beauséjour is proof that stars can indeed be born to play certain roles. She’s the perfect combination of ruthless spy and loving mother, and the ideal sidekick to Brad Pitt’s Max Vatan.
It’s clear that Pitt has discovered the fountain of youth. His brooding, mysterious Max combined with his classic hero features ensure the screen lights up every time he makes an appearance. One smouldering look from him and you’ll melt away in your seat.
There’s a certain type of chemistry between Pitt and Cotillard that at times will leave you with butterflies in your stomach and the next moment uncomfortable with anticipation and uncertainty.
Sure the film, like any other, has its faults. But you’ll be so smitten with it that you’ll hardly notice any. It’s a carefully crafted classic film that embraces the very best of cinema and elegantly projects it onto the big screen in a time of quick buck blockbuster box office hits.
Spoil yourself and take the time to go watch this film. You’ll leave the cinema floating on a cloud like someone who just fell madly in love with a stranger on a bus.