A masterpiece

Rating: 10/10 (21 October 2014)

People say this movie is too slow or doesn't have enough action. To them I say, go back to watching Transformers or some other such junk. This is a movie for people who think. There is action all through the film, in Gary Oldman's subtle performance, in the understated derring-do of Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hardy and Mark Strong. The rest of the cast performs their roles better than the author, John LeCarre, could have hoped, especially Colin Firth and Toby Jones.
Yes, the plot may be somewhat hard to follow upon a first viewing. Most of LeCarre's works are difficult the first time they're read. That may explain why I've watched this film some 40 or 50 times, enjoying it more each time.
I love the Jason Bourne movies as much as anyone, but for those who want a REAL spy movie, this is a classic.