Spy

Back in June, I tweeted that if there was any justice in the film world, Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne and Jason Statham would all be Oscar nominated for "Spy." We are now fully immersed in movie awards season and there are plenty of stellar performances out there, but I stand by my statement.

More than a spoof (although quite the deliciously bent satire), "Spy" has a clever script and deft direction that blends the required action scenes with a sense of the ridiculous and its director, Paul Feig ("Bridesmaids"), isn't afraid to allow scenes to breathe.

The zany saga centers on CIA analyst Susan Cooper (McCarthy), who has been happily desk-bound, acting as the eyes and ears of suave field agent Bradley Fine (an irresistible Jude Law, who proves he could easily be the next Bond). When Fine vanishes, presumed dead, Cooper volunteers to go undercover to find out what happened to her crush -- oh, and to save the world from a bunch of nukes that are about to fall into the wrong hands.

I have to admit I am not the biggest Melissa McCarthy fan. Up until now, I didn't really get what all the fuss was about. But that has changed. Her performance here is daft, sweet, driven, vulnerable and fierce. Talk about nuance. And in a comedy!

McCarthy has plenty of great thesps to work with. Byrne has never been more lunatic. She's an arrogant bitch, and it's intoxicating. Statham is a crass, mean, nasty charmer. Allison Janney, in a few brief scenes, makes quite a huge impression (but doesn't she always). Miranda Hart, Morena Baccarin, Bobby Cannavale and Peter Serafinowicz, provide great support as well.

The 1080p transfer in the film's original 2.39:1 aspect ratio is a visual treat with the exciting European locations sleekly swirling by. The audio offers impressive sound effects that don't blast you into the next room, but are more in sync with the audio proper.

Special Features are an abundance of riches for those who love to laugh. The almost two hours of goodies include: Three Redacted Scenes, 15 Classified Alternative Scenes, Gag Reels and a slew of Featurettes on the making of this instant comedy classic. My favorites were the Alternative Scenes -- in particular, a scene between McCarthy and Swedish actor Bjorn Gustafsson that had me in stitches. The actor is so good that an entire film should be created around his clueless character, Anton.

The docs are nice and meaty, and there is an enjoyable Audio Commentary by director Feig, producer Jessie Henderson, fight coordinator Walter Garcia, gaffer John Vecchio and cameraman Robert Yeoman -- it's fun to hear from the unsung heroes usually relegated to behind the scenes.

The Blu-ray boasts the original theatrical version and a slightly raunchier unrated version, which is a treat.

"Spy" is high among the year's best comedies.

"Spy"
Blu-ray & Digital HD
$19.99
http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/spy