Watch Once Upon A Spy

Once Upon A Spy is a thrilling action-adventure movie released in 1980. Starring Ted Danson, Mary Louise Weller, and Christopher Lee, the movie take us through an intriguing story of international espionage, high-tech gadgets, and the classic battle of good versus evil. The plot follows an average American meter reader, Jack Chenault (Ted Danson), whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is recruited by the CIA to help them capture an infamous arms dealer known as Janus (Christopher Lee). Jack's unique skill set, including his ability to speak several languages, catches the attention of the agency who believes he is the perfect candidate for the mission.

Intrigued by the opportunity to serve his country, Jack agrees to work with the CIA and begins an intense training program. He is soon trained to be a spy, complete with new identity and gadgets to support him, like a camera in his tie clip and a mask that can transform his features.

Jack embarks on his mission, tracking Janus around the world, including Hong Kong and Paris, in an attempt to stop him from selling arms to hostile powers. Along the way, Jack meets and falls for a beautiful French agent, Fathom Harvill (Mary Louise Weller).

Their relationship is complicated by the fact that Fathom is also working the Janus case, but they still manage to find time to assist each other, bonding along the way. The action-packed plot follows the two secret agents as they track Janus's every movement and ultimately locks him up by the end of the movie.

The movie is a thrill-ride from start to finish, filled with high-stakes action sequences, secret identities, and daring rescues. Christopher Lee's portrayal of the diabolical Janus is particularly chilling as he brings his signature gravitas to the role. Ted Danson is a charismatic leading man, and Mary Louise Weller is charming as the determined and resourceful female lead. The chemistry between the two actors is undeniable and adds a touch of romance to the story.

The locations in the movie are breathtaking, taking viewers on a global journey through eclectic and iconic cities. Hong Kong's bustling cityscape, Paris's romantic streets, and the seedy underworld of Janus's criminal operations - all are depicted with accuracy, transporting the audience to each location.

The movie itself keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its brisk pace, clever plot twists, and suspenseful musical score. With the help of the director, Ivan Nagy, the tension between Jack and Fathom is kept very thinly veiled, providing a perfect excuse for comic moments as Jack often finds himself almost exposed because of Fathom.

The themes of espionage and anti-arms trafficking are as relevant now as when the movie was first released, making it still enjoyable to watch in 2021 compared to many other organizations who end up with political views. Once Upon A Spy is perfect for anyone looking for a thrilling action-adventure movie that combines classic espionage tropes with modern technology. A fun, vintage film that reminds us of the dangers of being a spy and the lengths countries will go for peace, providing a great commentary that is still very apt today.

Once Upon A Spy is a 1980 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.9.