SoloStories: “Spy”

SoloStories is our feature in which we explore books, films and TV shows that show single women navigating their lives – but romance is not the main component.

In the 2015 movie Spy, 40-year-old Susan Cooper (Melissa McCarthy) unexpectedly becomes a field agent in this spoof of James Bond movies. She wears a variety of demeaning disguises that stereotype single, loveless women – such as a woman who has 10 cats. For one outfit, she declares, “I look like someone's homophobic aunt!”

But Susan is wicked smart, able to detect enemies in pursuit of a nuclear bomb. “I do not condone these sexy but reckless actions!” her coworker Nancy declares.

With her wits, Susan shows she has great power – going from an invisible middle-aged woman to one who saves the world.

It’s a fun movie to watch when you need to feel empowered and feel good about yourself. This movie has loads of laughs and a great cast, including a cameo from 50 Cent. We wish this had been a franchise.

Please note we receive a commission from purchases you make, which helps keep our site running – thank you!