This movie is simply inane.

Most of the actors playing Russians seem like they are auditioning for a live action version of Rocky and Bullwinkle, the actors playing the Americans could have been replaced with cardboard cut outs, and it seems like every exterior scene has a tram running in the background, I guess so we don't forget the film is taking place in Europe. For a big budget spy thriller there is little depth to the cast, production value is limited (this kind of film should be grand and lavish), and above all else the story line somehow both doesn't make sense AND is predictable. Think of the worst James Bond film you've ever watched, then take out whatever was redeeming and you get this movie.

Sex has undoubtedly been used by spies for as long as spies have existed and it's no doubt the Russians, and the Americans, use it to their advantage. However, rather than getting a thoughtful film that might explore all the many aspects of sex that would inculcate an espionage story you get a muddled mess of a plot, full of holes and insipid decision making. There's a bunch of gratuitous skin and sex scenes, to try and entertain the reptilian parts of our brains, but it's all rather tawdry, machinated and far from stimulating. Meanwhile the rape and torture scenes fail to elicit much guttural reaction, let alone empathy.

If you want simple Cold War chauvinism and fear mongering or if you just want to see Jennifer Lawrence and a bunch of other actors nude, then you'll enjoy it. Otherwise re-watch the Americans.

This is the first negative review I have written on IMDB. I hope it keeps someone from making the mistake of giving this movie a chance.

It gets three stars because I watched it all the way through and Mary Louise Parker has a delightful small role in it.