The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare
During World War II, a covert British outfit pulls together a small group of skilled soldiers and specialists to carry out daring raids behind enemy lines. The film follows their training, planning, and a sequence of dangerous missions aimed at disrupting Nazi operations. Along the way the team... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: January 14, 2026
About The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare
During World War II, a covert British outfit pulls together a small group of skilled soldiers and specialists to carry out daring raids behind enemy lines. The film follows their training, planning, and a sequence of dangerous missions aimed at disrupting Nazi operations. Along the way the team mixes sharp planning with improvisation, using unorthodox tactics that surprise their enemies and test their own limits. Henry Cavill leads as Gus March-Phillips, supported by Eiza González, Alan Ritchson, Henry Golding, and Cary Elwes, and the story balances action set pieces with moments of dry humor and tense camaraderie, staying rooted in the real-life origins of the Special Operations Executive without revealing major plot twists.
Directed by Guy Ritchie, released in 2024, the film was created by Damien Lewis, Paul Tamasy, and Eric Johnson, and draws on the real history of the Special Operations Executive, the secret organization Winston Churchill helped establish.
Released widely in 2024, the movie opened in theaters internationally, and the Guy Ritchie name plus a strong cast helped attract audiences. It had a steady commercial run, appealing to viewers who like wartime action with a comic edge, though it wasn't positioned as a runaway blockbuster.
Audience and critical responses settled in around a positive middle ground, with a 7.025/10 vote average from 1,718 votes reflecting solid approval. Reviewers often praised the cast chemistry, kinetic set pieces, and the film's willingness to mix humor with violence, while some critics pointed out uneven pacing and tonal shifts. Major themes include unconventional warfare, loyalty among comrades, and the moral blur that comes with secret operations.
The film renewed interest in the real Special Operations Executive and the origins of modern black operations, prompting conversations about how irregular tactics changed the course of the war. It also pushed wartime spy stories toward a looser, more adventurous tone, and encouraged viewers to read up on lesser-known WWII missions and their ethical implications.
What Viewers Are Saying
Viewers have mixed opinions about The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, with some praising Guy Ritchie's energetic direction and the film's unique blend of historical drama and action. Audiences appreciate Henry Cavill's intense performance and the fast-paced storytelling reminiscent of Ritchie's earlier work. However, some criticize the movie for shallow villains and a story they feel disrespects real WWII heroes, calling it overly stylized and lacking depth. Overall, reactions vary between enjoyment of its stylish execution and disappointment with its portrayal of history and character development.
Details
- Release Date
- April 18, 2024
- User Ratings
- 1,718 votes
- Type
- Movie
- Genres
- Action, Comedy, War
Official Trailer
Cast
Henry Cavill
Gus March-Phillips
Eiza González
Marjorie Stewart
Alan Ritchson
Anders Lassen
Henry Golding
Freddy Alvarez
Cary Elwes
Brigadier Gubbins 'M'
Alex Pettyfer
Geoffrey Appleyard
Hero Fiennes Tiffin
Henry Hayes
Babs Olusanmokun
Mr. Heron
Henry Zaga
Captain Binea
Til Schweiger
Heinrich Luhr
Director: Guy Ritchie
Written by: Damien Lewis, Paul Tamasy, Eric Johnson