Do not expect a James Bond film

Rating: 9/10 (22 August 2015)

If you expect a bang-up performance of a John le Carre story, you won't be disappointed. Gary Oldman pulls off a terrific performance as veteran spy George Smiley, almost understated.
Please recall that le Carre really worked for British Intelligence, he knew what it was really like. While fictional, the story remains highly credible.
But if you are looking for giant explosions, chases in supercars that turn into submarines, and women in bikinis a la Ian Fleming's stories (which I also enjoy), you will likely not appreciate this.
It's a cerebral drama, not an action film. If you simply want a "BOOM! WOW!" factor, choose another film. This one requires you pay attention.