Jane Eyre or John le Carré ... I didn't have to think twice.There's no contest.
It had to be Tinker Tailor. Can you give a film 10*? It was brilliant. What can I say ... I didn't think of Alec Guinness, not once. No wonder John le Carré is so pleased with it.
It's a phenomenally good cast. Gary Oldman has made George Smiley completely his own. Colin Firth is superb. (His suede shoes speak volumes.) The homosexual undertones that were more understated in the 1970s version .. well, history speaks for itself.
And in a film that is largely about the quiet ruthlessness of male betrayal, Kathy Burke is simply fantastic as the Circus's retired, alcoholic researcher Connie Sachs.
I'm ever so tempted to go again.
I wondered how he'd measure up, but he is completely brilliant, Sue. It's a while since I've read the book but it seemed very true to what I remember. And if it has the thumbs-up from John le Carré, it must be good.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I was riveted ... and all the moody atmospheric stuff is good, too. Oscars by the cartload, I should think.
Meant to say, the director is Scandinavian so it should be right up your street. (I was hooked on The Killing, too.)
ReplyDeleteOh, Sue, don't - it's worth seeing in the cinema, you'll lose half the atmosphere seeing it on small screen. Slope off on your own to the midday screening like I did!
ReplyDeleteThe second review I've read this morning and the other was less complimentary than yours! I still want to see the film but I have a hankering to watch the old TV version again, too.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to see it again, too, Callmemadam. I wish they'd repeat it.
ReplyDeleteHope you enjoy it, Sue!
Can't wait to see it! And Jane Eyre also, although I'm prepared for some disappointment there....
ReplyDeleteI know. I'm inclined to think that Jane Eyre will keep until it's on television, Rachel.
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