A Spy Among Friends
Based on Ben Macintyre’s book of the same name, A Spy Among Friends recounts the taut espionage thrills of SIS (MI6) and Soviet double agent Kim Philby (Guy Pearce) and boasts a tremendous, star-studded cast. The series begins with the bombshell revelation that Philby has been a Soviet spy for two decades. Long-time friend and fellow SIS agent Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) is sent to Beirut to find out why; however, the double agent flees during the night and escapes to Russia. What follows is an enthralling hunt for the truth that’s approached from several angles and spans many decades and locations.
The crux of the series sees intelligence agent Lily Thomas (Anna Maxwell Martin) interviewing Elliot to determine how much he new about his friend’s secret life and for how long. Simultaneously, Elliott reflects on his history with Philby as he questions his friendship, seemingly unsure himself why he did what he did. And amongst all that, the double agent gives his own account of events. There’s a multitude of layers to the script as the key players try to make sense of the information they’re given – assuming the intel isn’t part of another intricate double bluff, of course.
Pearce and Lewis are exquisite in the lead roles. Each actor brings an intoxicating measure of mystery and vulnerability to their character that only adds to the overarching intrigue and character-driven thrills that lie at the core of the script. Martin, too, is an equally exceptional presence onscreen, bringing yet another dimension of drama to the series. The performances are only matched in sophistication by the meticulous editing and cinematography that weaves these various elements together.
With each minute detail potentially carrying huge significance, this is a show that demands the viewer’s utmost attention. However, with much of the high-stakes investigation occurring at a glacial pace with a personality that can be as drab as the English weather, it’s easy for one’s concentration to slip and consequently miss vital information. Likewise, an underlying commentary that takes aim at the privileged British elite lacks substance beyond surface-level dialogue.
A Spy Among Friends boasts incredible performances within a multifaceted script. However, it falls short when it comes to excitement and social commentary.
Andrew Murray
A Spy Among Friends is released on 8th December 2022.
Watch the trailer for A Spy Among Friends here:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=uorIJtb6yCM
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