The early buzz for “The Spy Who Dumped Me” is surprisingly strong – according to Deadline, the action-comedy even had its release date shifted after a “phenomenal test screening.” Could this finally be Kate McKinnon’s breakthrough film? Even if you’re a fan of the “Ghostbusters” reboot, it’s hard to argue that the “Saturday Night Live” MVP has yet to have her own “48 Hrs.” or “Bridesmaids.”
“The Spy Who Dumped Me,” which McKinnon stars alongside Mila Kunis, is reminiscent of several other recent comedic espionage movies. The premise, as well as a title that riffs on a James Bond entry which Mike Myers already parodied years ago, isn’t particularly inspired. But, there’s reason to hope that “The Spy Who Dumped Me” can transcend a well-worn set-up.
Director/co-writer Susanna Fogel made her film directorial debut with another comedy about BFFs, 2014’s “Life Partners” starring Leighton Meester and Gillian Jacobs. The picture won praise for its depictions of female friendship, with Variety calling it, “A well-scripted, intriguingly-acted effort to mine the theme of prolonged adolescent best-buddyism through two women.” A similar, thoughtful approach to the high concept of “The Spy Who Dumped Me” could be the difference between a forgettable summer movie and an unexpected hit.
Here’s the official synopsis:
Audrey (Mila Kunis) and Morgan (Kate McKinnon), two thirty-year-old best friends in Los Angeles, are thrust unexpectedly into an international conspiracy when Audrey’s ex-boyfriend shows up at their apartment with a team of deadly assassins on his trail. Surprising even themselves, the duo jump into action, on the run throughout Europe from assassins and a suspicious-but-charming British agent, as they hatch a plan to save the world.
Fogel co-wrote with TV veteran David Iserson, who boasts credits on “Saturday Night Live,”“Mad Men,” and “Mr. Robot.” Co-starring Sam Heughan, Hasan Minhaj, Ivanna Sakhno, Justin Theroux, Gillian Anderson, and Fred Melamed, “The Spy Who Dumped Me” opens August 3rd. Watch the new trailer below.