One of the best for 2011

Rating: Null/10 (25 September 2011)

Never read a le Carre' book. Might just start reading them if this film is anything to go by. An intelligent post cold war spy thriller from Tomas Alfredson who made the brilliant Let The Right One In. Alfredson is atmospheric and stylish with his direction which gives Tinker, Tailor a very musty nostalgic look of the 1970's. So who is the mole? Not giving that away! But what I will say is that the film's pace leading up to the end is tense as well as exciting. Performance wise everyone does a stand up and job but there are two actors who I thought were exceptional. Firstly Tom Hardy, who has been receiving a lot praise for his performance in Warrior. He's excellent in this. Loved his character, a spy on the run whose been accused of defecting. He brought emotion and a charismatic swagger (if that makes sense) to this film; it's one of the best performances this year. He's been dubbed the British Brando, which I think is a bit much. But once he's on screen he demands your attention and I have no doubt he'll be around for along while to come. Gary Oldham however, is truly awesome in this film. Playing the Smiley character which was first brought to life by the great Alec (Obi Wan) Guinness. He owns every scene. Some say it's a direct copy of Guinness' portrayal of Smiley. Whether it is or it isn't (I haven't seen the original TV series) he's brilliant nonetheless. He was dressed like a school headmaster, but had the mind of a superspy. A very human performance as well, showing that the job had taken a lot out of his character and almost cost him his life. Throughout the years Oldman has played sinister characters, from Stansfield (Leon) to Jean Baptiste Emmanuel Zorg, (The Fifth Element) he gives everything to his performances. The Oscars are around the corner. Do not be surprised if Mr Oldman's man is among the nominees. The script is smart, witty and easy to follow as is the story, plot and flow of the film. The only problem I had with this film is the ending, which I thought was a bit of an anti climax. Other than that, it's a great film. Tom Hardy and Gary Oldman do their part as does Tomas Alfredson whose direction is assured. This is one of the best films of the year. GO SEE IT!