This fast paced high action hilarious show is a wonderful send up of the old style James Bond films that will leave you shaken (not stirred) from laughing so much, even if you’re not a fan of that genre this is a hilarious hour of fun and delight. 

After a perfect opening sequence of acrobatics and gunshots we meet international spy Jane Blonde who is tasked with saving the world with the help of writer Ian Flemish who has just finished his latest spy novel. They come up against several villains, Mr and Mrs Hugs, Mr Lovely and Mr Jubbly all as hapless and ridiculous as the names suggest! 

The writing is funny and slick, lots of references to old James Bond films as well as throwing in modern references too, it’s all family friendly but there are a few jokes which will leave the adults in fits of giggles. The design of the show is clever with puppets, confetti cannons and of course lots of hat changes to show different characters, it looks simple but I’m sure it's very complicated for the actors involved. They do well at every twist and turn of this slightly chaotic plot. To my knowledge, this is also the only fringe play that includes use of a remote control helicopter which adds an extra element of excitement as it is flown over the heads of the crowd.

Everyone plays a vital role; Emily Waters plays the writer, hoping to gain funding from the big film producer ‘Gary’ who just so happens to be sat in the front row of the audience. Matthew Howell plays the producer of the show, who also steps in at the last minute to cover a role. Jo Hartland is Jane Blonde, and Jack Stacey is writer Ian Flemish, but they all also play several other roles, villains, MI5 agents, waiters and many more! The quick changes are brilliantly executed and at times cause eruptions of laughter from the audience. 

At times it does feel a little too chaotic and that some sections could be pulled back a little as some plot points get missed or moved on from too quickly. 

This is a really fun show though, one for all the family whether you like spy films or not! It would be a great addition to your Edinburgh Fringe schedule, I do hope this show has a life after fringe, as it’s a joy to watch!

This show was reviewed on the 23rd August 2024 at Pleasance Courtyard - Beneath, Edinburgh where it runs until the 26th August 2024.  Tickets here: Spy Movie: The Play! | Theatre | Edinburgh Festival Fringe (edfringe.com)

Review written by Rosie Browne

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