Get Smart (2008)

When the secret identities of CONTROL agents are compromised, the Chief (Alan Arkin) enlists uber-analyst Maxwell Smart (Steve Carell) to become Agent 86. Teamed with the only special agent who's cover remains intact, Agent 99 (Anne Hathaway), they must overcome drastic--she's deadly, he's bumbling--differences in order to stop the shady terrorist organization known as KAOS and their operative, Siegfried (Terence Stamp) from unleashing nuclear missiles.

Allow me to preface this review by stating that I come into this movie completely blind, vaguely aware that this movie is based on a classic TV sitcom. I can't say how the movie compares to the series. What I will say is Get Smart is a surprisngly effectual comedy/spy caper that {surprisingly} entertains.

Steve Carell leads the stellar cast as Max. Playing a government analyst who takes his job more than seriously, Carell is pitch perfect. While he has a tendency to play shades of his Michael Scott in all his roles, you won't find that here. Carell walks the fine line of comedy/drama nicely. Even the suit takes on new meaning. Anne Hathaway is a surprise, but a solid choice as Agent 99. Stylish, charming, and effective, Hathaway has a great sense of timing. The chemistry between the two is believable, if corny. Her seriousness is great foil to his ineptitude.

The supporting cast is stacked with a blend of seasoned veterans, character actors, and Carell sidekicks. Dwayne Johnson takes a turn as Agent 23. Bill Murray gets in a cameo as Agent 13. James Caan, Masi Oki, Patrick Warburton, and David Koechner pop-up in various roles. Alan Arkin as the Chief is remarkable. Arkin maintains a poise throughout the chaos and seemingly adds an overall validity to the film.

With a vague storyline, Get Smart never reaches to far. Director Peter Segal seems content to entertain and allow the film to become the Steve Carell vehicle it is. But for all that, Get Smart contains some surprisingly slick action sequences. Carell and Hathaway deliver beautifully. Segal cobbles together exotic locals, physical comedy, funny dialogue and laudable villains for a good balance of nonsense and energy.

There are some inspired periods of humor that I hesitate to give away. Alan Arkin's tirade of 'nuclear' kills me. And there must be some tremendous send-ups to the original series based on the reaction of a certain family member. I can't imagine any viewer not coming away without a smile.

As I see it, Get Smart is simply an entertaining spoof. I was pleasantly surprised. Get Smart manages to rise above average thanks to inspired performances from all; it feels genuine.