A film that doesn't insult our intelligence

Rating: 10/10 (30 March 2018)

I read all the "bored to death/too confusing" negative reviews and "it demands multiple viewings to understand" positive reviews before watching. I personally found both not true. I thoroughly enjoyed the intricate plot, extremely slow-paced intensity, superb performances and beautiful cinematography at the first viewing. If you are bored by this film you should stick to the shootout & explosion-type action flicks or rom-coms that explain everything with wordy dialogues. Those who find it too confusing to understand and give it one star should seriously grow some brain cells.
Gary Oldman is simply sublime as George Smiley. The script has almost zero exposition but you can clearly see what's going on by just watching his face and demeanor. He raises his voice only once in the entire movie and it's enough to show Smiley's anger, pity and contempt to the mole. Truly great example of "less is more" subdued acting. A standout among the stellar supporting cast is Mark Strong. I couldn't take my eyes off him whenever he's in the scene. Prideaux is perhaps the most human character in Tinker and he played it perfectly.
Overall this is a brilliant film in that it trusts its audience. Yes it takes concentration (and brain cells) to enjoy but it's really nice to see an adult film that doesn't play up to the desire for easy gratification of lazy moviegoers. Definitely a future classic in my opinion.