Genre-wise, espionage films have long fared well at the box office. Spy thrillers have a rare blend of excitement and mystery, from nail-biting chase scenes to unexpected narrative twists. There are a plethora of espionage films out there, and it might be difficult to pick the best ones. So, settle down for drinks and snacks and be ready to be whisked away to a realm of intrigue and deceit with our chosen spy films from the 2010s.
Argo (2012)
This film is inspired by the true-life account of a courageous CIA campaign to free six American diplomats sheltering up at the Canadian Consulate amid the Iranian hostage situation of 1979. The American intelligence agency devises a scheme to set up a phony cinematic studio and brings in operative Tony Mendez to masquerade as a filmmaker in order to save the Americans. Mendez opens an office in California and enlists the aid of others to fabricate a plot for the hoax film. After crossing the border, the gang encounters a number of challenges, notably the skepticism of Iranian authorities and unanticipated difficulties at the terminal. The picture offers an interesting glimpse into an overlooked part of history and does a good job of conveying the heated geopolitical mood of the period. The climactic action takes place at the Mehrabad Terminal in Tehran and is sure to get your pulse racing.
Atomic Blonde (2017)
The film depicts MI6 operative Lorraine Broughton as she travels to Cold War-era Berlin to uncover the truth behind the death of a colleague and retrieve a roster of covert operatives that has slipped into the clutches of criminals. Lorraine is an expert operative who is competent in both close-quarters fighting and the art of spycraft. She joins forces with renegade MI6 operative David, who has been stationed in Berlin for quite some time. When Lorraine digs further, she discovers that the reality is more convoluted than she had anticipated and that a spy has penetrated their ranks. The battles are well choreographed and performed, with Theron undertaking many of them herself. The film also has excellent ’80s music that works well with the story.
Red Sparrow (2018)
Dominika, a Russian dancer, has her career cut short by accident and is driven to serve as a spy. Dominika travels to Budapest at Nate’s request and finds herself developing feelings for him while there. But she quickly remembers that her duty to Moscow supersedes any personal feelings she may have, and she presses on with her task. Yet, Nate believes Dominika isn’t an operative and encourages her to escape to America. As the plot develops, we discover that both the Soviet and American security services are seeking to use Dominika and Nate to advance their respective agendas. Dominika has to decide between being faithful to Moscow and her affection for Nate, and it’s not an easy decision to make. The film concludes with an unexpected tone, with many questions left unanswered.
Allied (2016)
The story follows Max and Marianne as they pretend to be husband and wife in order to join a group of Nazis in Morocco. They develop a serious romance as they become attached while on their assignment. But Max is subsequently charged with scrutinizing Marianne after learning of suspicions that the latter might be a Nazi operative. If she is proven to be a snitch, Max will follow the operational procedure and execute her. Max’s inquiry leads him on a path of self-discovery as the story progresses, prompting him to rethink his entire existence and devotion. The risks become greater as the film proceeds, making for numerous action-packed scenes.
Operation Finale (2018)
The picture centers on an Israeli intelligence squad headed by Peter Malkin and entrusted with locating and apprehending Eichmann, one of the most important Nazis responsible for the Holocaust. While dealing with their own flaws and experiences as European Jews, the intelligence squad must also overcome social and procedural obstacles in their pursuit of Eichmann and his eventual prosecution. Isaac and Kingsley provide standout portrayals that ground the picture in realism. The film’s photography and visual effects are also excellent, effectively conveying the feel of Buenos Aires during the sixties. If you like period dramas and/or are curious about the Holocaust, this is a film you should not miss.
The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
The plot revolves around the friendship between CIA operative Solo as well as Soviet spy Kuryakin. The Cold War backdrop heightens the stakes for these experienced operatives as they team up to track down a weapon of mass destruction that, if in the paws of criminals, might destabilize the global order. Their sole clue is the exquisite daughter of a German researcher who is obsessed with high-end clothes and motorcars. This film boasts a fantastic cast in addition to its impressive visual effects, international locations, and cutting-edge style. This film has all the makings of a good time, with its exciting plot, stylish characters, and emphasis on friendship and loyalty. The film is easy on the eyes, with all the stunning scenery, hot protagonist, and speedy vehicles from the 1960s. It’s a lighthearted look at the cultural contrasts Involving Moscow and Washington with a dash of humor, but it rarely grows too serious or graphic.