Spy No. 13
Spy No. 13

Movie spotlight

Spy No. 13

1964
Movie
106 min
Cantonese

During World War II, spy Wu Lai-sheung is instructed by her superior Fan Yeung-shan to murder spy number 13 Cheung Chi-ping. While Wu establishes a relationship with Sakei, the assistant general of the Japanese army, she also gets acquainted with Cheung. Cheung and Wu fall in love. Wu recommends Cheung to become Sakei's driver. Cheung pretends to court the Japanese spy Siu-kuen, but Siu-kuen arranges to kill the spies contacting with him. Cheung has seen through Kuen's identity for long. When Kuen is going to kill Wu, Cheung kills Kuen, Fan compels Wu to kill Cheung. Wu follows the instruction to murder Cheung. After the murder, Wu disappears. After the war, Fan discovers Wu ends up in asylum. When he visits Wu, he tells her of Cheung's innocence. This breaks Wu's heart. Cheung turns out to have seen through Wu's identity for a long time and pretended to have been killed to cover up his identity and facilitate his work. With the truth known and the war ended, Cheung and Wu married.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: Charles CrichtonGenres: Comedy, Spy

Plot Summary

A timid accountant stumbles upon a secret government agency and is inadvertently recruited as a spy. Despite his lack of experience and a series of comical mishaps, he finds himself tasked with thwarting a nefarious plot. He navigates dangerous situations with a blend of luck and accidental bravery, often aided by his unlikely colleagues.

Critical Reception

Spy No. 13 was a lighthearted British comedy that garnered a generally positive reception for its humor and performances, particularly from its ensemble cast known for their work in similar comedies of the era. While not a critical darling, it was considered an enjoyable piece of escapism by audiences.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its lighthearted, farcical humor and silly spy antics.

  • Appreciated for the comedic talents of Kenneth Williams and the supporting cast.

  • Seen as a fun, if somewhat predictable, romp in the spy comedy genre.

Google audience: Audiences often recall Spy No. 13 fondly for its nostalgic humor and the memorable performances of its cast. Many found it to be a charming and amusing film that delivered on its comedic premise.

Fun Fact

The film is often associated with the 'Carry On' film series due to the presence of several actors who were regulars in that franchise and its similar brand of British humor.

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