And then there was George.

Rating: Null/10 (3 October 2011)

I've read a few of the reviews here already. I was interested to read some of the negative ones by people who clearly had not done their homework before going to see it. And by that I don't mean reading the book - simply reading a review would provide all the information necessary.
First there was James.
Then Jason.
And then there was George.
This film is as much a reaction to the "spy" movies of recent times as it is an adaptation of a classic novel. The reality, as portrayed in this fascinating movie, is the a good spy does not go around blowing up cars and killing scores of people... it does not assist in staying incognito. The spies all work in drab, grey government buildings. Flashbacks to the a Christmas party help to portray the "Circus" as just another workplace.
And yet there are killings in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Graphic, horrific deaths. But it is not the deaths themselves but the tension and the feeling of dread that precedes such moments.
This is a film for grown ups. You have to watch, listen and take it all in. Not just sit back and wait for the next fight scene or car chase to keep you engaged.
It is not a film without flaws. Many of the characters are introduced too quickly so we have a litany of names and faces but difficulty in matching them up. This does not aid in interpreting what is a considerably complex plot.
But there are great performances from an all-star British cast and from the set designers who portray Cold War-era London in all its oppressive greatness.
See this if you are willing to engage your brain.