Studio: eOne Films

Reviewed by: Jordan C.

I’m a big fan of BBC programming and two of my favorites are MI:5 and The Hour. I say that because Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is like a perfect marriage of those shows' best elements. Now, the original Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy film starring Alec Guinness (aka Obi-wan) predates these TV series by about three decades and in fact, was probably an influence on them. But for those who haven’t reached their forties, if you like espionage intrigue with some good character building, you will dig this film.

The star line-up here is pretty ridiculous. There is Gary Oldman in the lead role, with John Hurt (Immortals), Tom Hardy (Inception), Mark Strong (Green Lantern), Toby Jones (Captain America), Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock), and Colin Firth all playing major parts. This team of actors really take responsibility for their roles, which gives the movie a genuine sense of humanity. You’re made to feel how the intelligence community are chewed up and spit out, and expected to come back for more if need be. You know, for the Queen and all that.

I’ve heard comments that this film is slow and hard to follow but if you actually pay attention and you enjoy well written dialogue, this should be one of your favorite video releases of 2012 so far. It’s definitely up there for me.