As we approach Labor Day, it’s clear we’re getting plenty of options at the theater and at home. Joining this crowded release period is Apple TV, which is offering its latest new film Mayday to stream starting September 4. The film—which stars Ryan Reynolds and Kenneth Branagh—is an action comedy that takes us all the way back to the Cold War.

The film is set in 1987 and follows a U.S. pilot (Reynolds) who is shot down over the Soviet Union. That leaves him in a dangerous place seeking a way out when he comes across a former KGB Agent (Branagh) who has an affinity for American culture. A unique pairing ensues.

We begin by learning about Lt. Troy Kelly (Reynolds), a hot-shot Navy pilot. He’s got skills and he’s got jokes. But when the pressure is on, he comes through. He nails the latest war games exercise and even manages to help a fellow pilot in need. That earns the attention of his superiors, who tap him for a special mission.

Kelly, dubbed Assassin on his call sign, is paired with a veteran Air Force pilot (Louis Cancelmi) to fly a recon mission over Russia in the new SR-71. It’s a sleek and fast plane meant to stay high above it all. But when the low-level clouds force the plane lower, they’re spotted by the Russians. While Kelly advises some slick maneuvers, his pilot ignores him and ends up getting killed as the plane is shot down.

Kelly lands disoriented and hurt, in the middle of a forest well over the border. But he’s met by Nikolai (Branagh), a former KGB Agent who is desperate to embrace America and freedom. Nikolai offers treatment and tries to keep Kelly safe, though he decides he can do it on his own. When he discovers he can’t, Kelly has no choice but to rely on Nikolai to get him out of the country and safely back home.

This is the ultimate kind of odd couple war film. There’s plenty of action and even some cool effects. But it’s mostly about these two people with different skill sets and backgrounds who come to appreciate each other, and each other’s countries for what they are. We know where this is going and there aren’t many surprises in the sleek 110-minute run time, but it’s about the journey, not the destination.

The film comes from writer/directors John Francis Dailey and Jonathan Goldstein who’ve teamed in the past for comedies like Vacation, Game Night, and Dungeons & Dragons. This brings a similar style to the storytelling. There’s a familiar plot and some good action, but this is about the clever dialogue and delivery.

They find a great partner in Reynolds. He’s the king of the quippy come backs and one-liners, and he applies that skill gracefully here. But his Kelly also has some heart and learns some things during the course of the film. Branagh, too, has some excellent timing with his lines that adds to the fun and humor. While he’s more of the straight man here, his back-and-forth with Reynolds is entertaining and delightful.

In the end, Mayday packs a lot of entertainment into a tight package. If you’re looking for a fun stream this holiday weekend, this film has you covered.

Mayday streams on Apple TV on Friday, September 4.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.