Movie - Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a remake of a television mini-series that aired in the late 1970's.  I did not see the mini-series and so cannot make any comparisons between the two.  However, I can unequivocally state that the movie version was an excellent experience!  My movie synopsis is as follows:

1. In the early 1970's, during the height of the Cold War, Control, a spymaster played by John Hurt, believes that there might be a mole in his organization at the very top.  An operation in Budapest to find evidence goes badly leaving an agent dead in the field.  Control is forced to resign as is Mr. Smiley, his loyal second played by Gary Oldman.  
2. Some time later, a senior government official is contacted by a field agent who believes that at least one of the top four officials remaining with the intelligence service is a Russian mole.  This government official remembers Control's warning; however, Control recently passed away and is no longer available to investigate the matter.  
3. The government official asks Mr. Smiley to review the matter and presses him on accepting the task.  After all, he argues, this is part of Smiley's legacy as well.  And so the movie picks up speed with Mr. Smiley's very methodical investigation.

The movie is full contact - don't walk away for a minute since every moment means something.  Even glances and pauses seem to imply meaning that must be further analyzed.  The story is interwoven with flashbacks that provide context and clarity so it may take an effort to follow.

The lighting is drab and dark but it lends itself to the Cold War Era and the certain doom that was in the air, especially in this profession where the lines blur between enemies...and moral codes are seen as liabilities.  

The cast is a director's dream and includes strong performances from Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, Mark Strong and John Hurt.  However, this is Gary Oldman's movie and his performance is nothing short of brilliant.  See this movie!!

I give this movie four stars out of five.

More movie information can be found on IMDB and you can always buy the movie on Amazon!