The previous attempts to reignite the Charlie’s Angels franchise were not as sustainable and even the relative stability of network T.V. could not help the Angels find a permanent home. But with an increasing demand for women-led action, there was only so long that three talented agents could stay inactive for. In 2019, rising from the ashes of the cancelled T.V. the world received heavenly saviours in the elegant, and cinematic return of Charlie’s Angels.

The Townsend Agency has now franchised into many locations and after many years of service and successful adventures in now seeing faithful John Bosley finally retiring. But there is no rest for the Angels. A new power management device for the homes, known as Calisto, might be deadly to the average user due to a flaw that researcher Elena Houghlin finds, yet her overseers are eager to push forward with the launch as is. She teams up with Townsend’s Angels to stop this product launch however, a traitor may lurk in the agency, putting everything in jeopardy.

The new film, despite being a continuation of the 2000s and not a reboot, makes dramatic alterations, while recalling its past. For instance, Bosley has regenerated into Sir Patrick Stewart, who like his predecessors, is not the first choices you would have, but since this Bosley is retiring it hardly matters. We get a fun photoshop of Stewart in 70s attire, with the previous Angels. But its Elizabeth Banks who is spearheading this from production, direction and even staring as Bosley herself. Yes, Bosley is now a rank, not a name (a delicious detail this film adds to the lore). Bank’s Bosley joins the new line-up of Angels. Consisting of formerly wealthy heiress turned thief Sabina whose blonde hairstyle and penchant to talk/wisecrack remind me of Holtzmann from the 2016 Ghostbusters reboot. It is refreshing for Kristen Stewart who has had an unfortunate reputation for sullen roles, Sabina provides evidence to the contrary. However, it was Ella Balinska, in her breakout role, who delivered the killer lines as Jane Kano, Ex M.I.6. Agent, and perfect deadpan counterpart to the team. Along with rookie Elena whose awkwardness but determination helps ground the Angels in believable territory.

Humour and charm are far from their only assets, as the film indulges in action more than amply from choreographed car chases, martial arts match-ups, and automatic firepower. Combined with its core mystery within the heart of the franchise, and it is safe to say that the new incarnations of the Angels seem more than capable. You might also notice that the descriptions of these Angels, might sound like the 2011 variations, and yes it does feel like this recycled a lot from the failed T.V. series and it is great to see the show’s spirit live on.

Just under 50 years have passed since the Angels first dazzled our screens, a lot has changed in society and with this film, a new generation has the daunting task to live up to the original’s expectations, and they do splendidly. The 2019 instalment assembles an action cast that can certainly cater to a very demanding audiences’ appetite of action, adventure, humour and many more. It is comforting to know that for many years after its inception, there will probably always a new generation of Angels to answer the call.

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