Alex Rider: Operation Stormbreaker – A Teenage Spy That’s Worth a Gander

Alright, folks, let’s dive into “Alex Rider: Operation Stormbreaker.” You know, the teenage-spy genre might sound like a Sunday morning cheese fest, but this one’s got some punch. The movie, based on Anthony Horowitz’s novel, is a whirlwind. And, oh boy, there’s none other than Ewan McGregor who kicks it off. Ewan’s got that charm—like a Swede with their first kaffe of the morning—and for the brief spell he’s onscreen, he nails it.

Directed by Geoffrey Sax, who’s not exactly Ingmar Bergman but knows how to orchestrate an action sequence, the film moves at quite a clip. It’s got this youthful energy that’s contagious if you let it be. But let’s be honest, some parts had me glancing at the wall clock. Maybe it was the classic ‘villain reveals everything’ trope—seriously, who does that? Mickey Rourke giving us the heavy as Darrius Sayle though, it’s kinda like pouring chili sauce on surströmming—unexpectedly intense but not for everyone.

Funny memory here: when the book first came out, I picked it up while on a train ride to Malmö. The landscapes zipped by as I couldn’t peel my eyes away from Alex’s antics. It’s surreal seeing it all come alive on the screen. Though it’s been ages since that trip, the nostalgia is strong, and that’s movie magic right there.

It’s a mix of hit and miss, really. I think the real appeal here is the relatability—who didn’t imagine themselves a secret agent as a kid, right? And those gadgets, man, like something crafted by a particularly imaginative Swede in their garage. If you’re in for some light-hearted espionage with a fair sprinkle of humor, give it a whirl. And after all, any chance to see recognisable faces like Bill Nighy and his deadpan Brit humor, it’s worth a go. Maybe not Oscar material, but definitely a fun ride on a rainy Tuesday evening.

Check the trailer below