My Spy The Eternal City has landed on Prime Video with a bang — similar to the noise secret agent protagonist JJ (Dave Bautista) makes when he is trying but failing to be subtle. To celebrate the sequel’s release, FILMHOUNDS joined an exclusive press junket where star spy actors Dave Bautista, Ken Jeong and Chloe Coleman dished all the dirt on the film.
Interviewed by their director and the film’s co-writer, Peter Segal, it’s evident that the rapport the trio have is as strong on screen as it is off. There were laughs throughout and the cast’s relationship with Segal shone through. The director even playfully asked if any of the trio stole props whilst filming. All three denied any wrongdoing and quickly wanted to clear their names. Segal on the other hand cheekily beamed, with a prop phone in his hand, which also doubles up as a taser in the film. Through Segal’s questioning, we also learnt that filming took place in Italy and South Africa. Most of the cast were able to go on a Safari when they got downtime, but Bautista missed out on this.
In the My Spy realm, five years have passed since we were first introduced to chaotic JJ, his now step-daughter Sophie (Chloe Coleman) and boss David (Ken Jeong). If you thought things were prickly in the first My Spy instalment, the stakes are even higher this time as the duo stumble upon a cryptic nuclear terrorist attempt in Rome.
Previously embarking on highly dangerous missions, JJ opts to swap the life-threatening assignments, for a more chilled-out CIA desk job, so that he can spend more time with his new family. Sophie, who is now a teenager, has matured from the last time we saw her. As to be expected when on the brink of adolescence, she experiences those relatable awkward coming-of-age moments and develops her first crush on her fellow choir singer, Ryan (Billy Barratt).
Once idolising her step-dad, the dynamic duo’s relationship is on the rocks. Sophie couldn’t be more embarrassed by JJ and his overprotective dad schtick. It’s even more mortifying for the teen, who asks for more space, but gets the complete opposite when JJ decides to volunteer as a chaperone for the school trip to Rome. Unbeknownst to the pair, it’s the same place where nuclear carnage is unfolding…
Speaking warmly of the newcomers, the quartet revealed that Anna Faris (who portrays Nancy) was slightly intimidated to join the existing cast and crew due to their tight knit-bond. Segal revealed that despite her reservations, Faris, Barratt, Craig Robinson and Flula Borg (Crane) fit right into their family unit. The cast and the newcomers were able to recreate some of that magical on screen chemistry from the first film that pulled the fans in.
There was a breath of fresh air during the conference when Coleman was asked about her character’s romantic revelations. The actor revealed that she felt comfortable expressing her input in how Sophie’s love life was portrayed. For Coleman, Sophie was too “boy crazy,” and it was important to her that this specific element of the character’s arc was dialled down. The suggestion being taken onboard further solidifies a positive relationship, and is also quite brave for a fifteen year old to request!
Coincidently, the weirdest scene for Coleman to film involved kissing. Well, kind of. A tense moment is somewhat eased by JJ’s colleague and fan favourite Bobbi (Kristen Schaal) tries to give Sophie relationship advice and kissing tips. The second hand embarrassment for Sophie is a little toe curling, but Schaal’s comedic value and timing is on point. Albeit, a little uncomfortable.
What can you expect in the sequel? Action, romance and cold leads. The stunts are seriously impressive and several cars sadly meet their demise. Fan favourites, Bobbi’s and David’s reprisal cement their entertainment factor in the film franchise, and My Spy wouldn’t be My Spy without a large twist.
And if there is a third instalment in the film series, what would the stars want to see? Coleman was quick to comment that it would be nice for Sophie to explore her final year in high school. Whereas Bautista wants Sophie to be in university and navigating life, her studies and spy work. Jeong hinted that he would like to see a wedding on the cards. But who would tie the knot? You’ll have to watch the sequel to find out.
My Spy Eternal City is available to stream now on Prime Video.
