A little over-hyped, and it had some problems, but overall an OK movie.

Rating: Null/10 (16 September 2011)

I wasn't sure what to expect when I went to see this movie. I've not read the book, but I did see the BBC series some years ago when BBC4 repeated it. I had hoped they wouldn't turn it into a fast paced, big action, more 'bond' style movie, and they didn't.
The visuals and sound were great, and the acting also. The pacing was pretty good, and they did a reasonable job of compressing it down to about 2 hours. There were some good moments of tension and a couple of shocking moments.
I'm curious how people who know nothing of the story would find it. It seemed like it may be a little confusing in parts, especially the way it ties up at the end. If you like your spy movies to contain lots of chases through alleyways, abseiling into windows, and shootouts, this movie is probably not for you.
Here are some of the flaws I felt in the film.
The main suspects (tinker, tailor, soldier, spy) didn't feel developed quite enough. Kathy Burkes part was weird, especially her voice. There was a weird crow-baring in of some music at one point (I think it was blood sweat and tears?) The ending felt a bit rushed and slightly confusing. Cumberbatch seemed a little young looking for his role (his acting was great though)
It certainly wasn't a wasted trip to the cinema, the film is great in many ways, but it could have been better.
6/10