The trouble with Bridge of Spies is that it's just so American and Tom Hanks is just so - decent. It's a cracking true story - and I'm tempted to read the book - and Berlin in 1962 looks amazing. But despite what the Guardian says, I like my Cold War thrillers dark and cynical and messy and le Carré-ish - and I want tension not Hollywood optimism. So despite Mark Rylance as the Russian spy - and we turned out on a damp, chilly evening for him, not for Tom Hanks - we came out mildly grumbling that this was a 6.5 film ( well, I gave it 7, my friend said only 6). I kept thinking of the tension of The Spy Who Came in from the Cold - and thought the old ones are the best.
I have so been looking forward to seeing this film, Mary. My very secret vice is Cold War films/books and John le Carre especially - all that moral ambiguity and intrigue. I still have my fingers crossed for Bridge of Spies.(Different sort of film, but have you seen Carol? I've high hopes for that film too)
ReplyDeleteIt's still a good story, Sue - and it looks terrific - I just wanted it to be edgier. I still haven't seen Carol; maybe next week.
ReplyDeleteI do get confused by two Sues! But agree with you both that you can't beat le Carré. (Did you now that his house has just opened as a rather expensive Landmark Trust holiday let?)
ReplyDeleteI'm going to check that out now, Quince Tree Sue. But if it's the one when she elopes with Dolly, yes, I have seen it and it's hilarious! I love the mince pie crumbs in her eye.
I've just watched it again, Sue. Brilliant! I'd forgotten the Pekoe for the middle classes.
ReplyDeleteHonorary Sue here. I've just been directed to that parody by someone else entirely. So well done. I wanted more. I miss Victoria Wood. I don't much like Cold War books but as I may have told everyone already had Mark Rylance spying in my house recently.
ReplyDeleteNow I think of it, I haven't seen her in anything for ages, Lucille.
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