Fans of the action-comedy film “My Spy” are in for a treat with its highly anticipated sequel, “My Spy: The Eternal City.” Stars Dave Bautista and Chloe Coleman return, bringing the same comedic chemistry and dynamic that audiences fell in love with in the 2020 original.
The story picks up with retired Army Ranger JJ (Bautista), who has chosen to transfer to a CIA desk job in Chicago. This career shift is motivated by his desire to spend more time with his stepdaughter Sophie (Coleman), whose mother is volunteering as a doctor in Rwanda. Despite JJ’s hardcore training methods, Sophie’s budding spy skills are flourishing. However, this intense focus on espionage leaves her little time to experience the typical high school life she dreams of, like attending Homecoming and getting her first kiss.
The plot takes an exciting turn when Sophie’s school choir is selected for a tour of Italy, culminating in a prestigious performance at the Vatican for the Pope. Seeing an opportunity to keep an eye on Sophie and her best friend Collin, JJ volunteers as a chaperone. Collin, unbeknownst to Sophie, has a secret crush on her and is also the son of JJ’s CIA boss, David Kim (Ken Jeong). What could have been a straightforward trip quickly turns chaotic when an innocent curfew violation, aimed at tasting the best gelato in Florence, leads to Collin’s kidnapping.
Held for an earth-shattering ransom, Collin’s abduction sets the stage for a thrilling rescue mission. Along with top CIA analyst Bobbi (Kristen Schaal), JJ, Kim, and Sophie leap into action to thwart an evil genius whose desire for revenge threatens to destroy the world as we know it. JJ’s years of Special Forces training are put to the ultimate test as he navigates the ingenuity and determination of teenagers abroad for the first time.
Director and producer Pete Segal recalls the unique challenges of creating a sequel, especially considering Chloe Coleman’s growth from a 9-year-old in the first film to a teenager now. He emphasizes that this change had to be embraced, adding a new layer of complexity to JJ and Sophie’s relationship. Drawing from his own experiences chaperoning high school choir tours in Italy, Segal injects authenticity and humor into the storyline. His personal anecdotes, including getting into trouble with the head chaperone, add a relatable and comedic touch to the film.
The success of the first “My Spy” film, especially during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic when streaming services were desperate for new content, paved the way for this ambitious sequel. As Segal humorously recalls, “My Spy opened in 17 countries on Friday and closed in 17 countries on Saturday.” The film’s unexpected success on streaming platforms, particularly Amazon Prime Video, led to a bidding war, eventually securing the sequel.
Producer Chris Bender reflects on the moment they knew the film was a hit: “I said, ‘If they ask for a sequel.’ Well, they asked for a sequel!” The first film’s charm and originality made the sequel an eagerly awaited project. Segal’s extensive career, including hits like “Tommy Boy,” “Get Smart,” and “50 First Dates,” equipped him with the expertise to tackle the follow-up’s unique challenges.
Segal and Bender both have daughters, providing them with a deep well of humor and drama to mine from the father-daughter dynamic. JJ’s struggle to balance his protective instincts with Sophie’s desire for independence resonates with any parent of a teenager. This theme is further explored through the character of David Kim, who is also dealing with his son Collin’s transition into young adulthood and his growing pains.
Gigi Pritzker, another producer of both films, highlights the irresistible comedic possibilities of a father balancing the challenges of raising a teenage daughter while simultaneously thwarting a nuclear attack. The film’s expanded scope, enabled by a tripled budget, allowed for more elaborate set pieces and a grander scale, particularly in the picturesque settings of Rome.
In “My Spy: The Eternal City,” fans can expect a blend of heartwarming moments, laugh-out-loud comedy, and thrilling action. This sequel not only continues the story but evolves it, offering a fresh take on the beloved characters while exploring new, exciting territories. Whether you’re a fan of the first movie or new to the series, this sequel promises an irresistible mix of laughs, thrills, and heartfelt moments.
