Hopscotch
Hopscotch

Movie spotlight

Hopscotch

1980
Movie
104 min
English

When CIA operative Miles Kendig deliberately lets KGB agent Yaskov get away, his boss threatens to retire him. Kendig beats him to it, however, destroying his own records and traveling to Austria where he begins work on a memoir that will expose all his former agency's covert practices. The CIA catches wind of the book and sends other agents after him, initiating a frenetic game of cat and mouse that spans the globe.

Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes67%
Google Users73%
Director: Ronald NeameGenres: Comedy, Crime, Mystery

Plot Summary

A covert CIA operative, Miles Kendall, fakes his own death to escape his vindictive former boss, Myerson, who wants him silenced. Living under various aliases and constantly on the move across Europe, Kendall uses his wit and charm to stay one step ahead of his pursuers. His elaborate game of 'hopscotch' involves elaborate disguises, coded messages, and a growing entanglement with a former lover, all while trying to expose Myerson's illegal activities.

Critical Reception

Hopscotch was generally well-received by critics and audiences, praised for its witty script, engaging plot, and strong performances, particularly from Walter Matthau. It was considered a clever and entertaining espionage comedy that balanced suspense with humor effectively.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Walter Matthau's charismatic performance and the film's clever, humorous espionage plot.

  • Cited as an entertaining blend of comedy and suspense with a sophisticated, witty script.

  • Appreciated for its lighthearted take on spy-thriller tropes.

Google audience: Audiences generally found Hopscotch to be a thoroughly enjoyable and witty spy comedy, highlighting Walter Matthau's performance and the film's intelligent humor. Many viewers appreciated its classic feel and engaging storyline.

Fun Fact

The film's original premise was based on a novel of the same name by John B. Manion and Walter J. Bernstein, with Bernstein also co-writing the screenplay.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

A simply delightful little film. After growing tired of the job, CIA agent Miles Kendig decides to get out of the business once and for all. Fearing that his peace, and maybe his life, could be threatened by the organisation, he tells th...