A very skimped version compared to the TV series

Rating: 5/10 (11 February 2012)

The big problem with this film is the lack of characterisation of the people Smiley is investigating. If you are going to buy the story on DVD buy the BBC series which is infinitely better especially if bundled with Smiley's people. You really get to know the characters in the BBC version which is brilliantly performed by everyone. When the conclusion comes about in this film it is difficult to see why anyone would really care. Gary Oldman just seems too bland and the use of an open plan warehouse for an office has an out of place contemporary feel. A bit of period cost saving I think. Not a bad experience in the cinema possibly but not worth buying the blu-ray/DVD as the BBC version blows the film away. Barely adequate against sheer class.