Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre

Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre is a 2023 spy action-comedy film directed by Guy Ritchie. The movie features an ensemble cast including Jason Statham, Aubrey Plaza, Josh Hartnett, Cary Elwes, Bugzy Malone, and Hugh Grant. The story revolves around Orson Fortune (played by Statham), a spy tasked with recovering a stolen high-tech device before an arms dealer can sell it to the highest bidder.

The film had its international theatrical release on 04 January 2023 and opened in the United States on 03 March 2023. It became available for digital streaming on Amazon Prime Video in the United Kingdom on 07 April 2023.

The plot kicks off when a group of Ukrainian mobsters steals a device known as "The Handle," which is valued at billions. The British government hires Nathan Jasmine to retrieve it before arms dealer Greg Simmonds (Grant) can sell it. Nathan recruits super-spy Orson Fortune and assembles a team that includes Sarah Fidel, a skilled hacker, and JJ Davies. Their quest takes them to Madrid to locate a courier carrying information about the device.

As the plot unfolds, the team discovers Simmonds will host a charity gala in Cannes. They plan to infiltrate the event by blackmailing Simmonds' favorite movie star, Danny Francesco, to help them create a distraction. The story leads the team to Antalya, where they encounter various obstacles, including a rival faction led by Mike, who has his own agenda related to the stolen device.

The film’s cinematography was handled by Alan Stewart, with editing by James Herbert and music composed by Christopher Benstead. The production companies involved are Miramax, STXfilms, and Toff Guy, while distribution in the U.S. was managed by Lionsgate.

Despite a budget of $50 million, the film grossed approximately $49 million worldwide, falling short of its financial expectations. In its opening weekend in the U.S., the film earned about $3.1 million, placing it seventh at the box office.

Critical reception has been mixed. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 51%, indicating divided opinions among audiences and critics. The consensus states that while the film lacks the depth of top-tier modern action movies, it offers enough entertainment for viewers looking for light thrills.

Overall, Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre showcases Ritchie's signature style of action and humor, paired with Statham's charismatic performance as the lead. Viewers can expect an entertaining spy adventure, though it may not satisfy those seeking a deeply intricate plot.