Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Focus Features | Release Date: December 9, 2011
6.6
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Generally favorable reviews based on 491 Ratings
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Negative:
77
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9
danmasters1987Jan 12, 2012
I'm writing this review purely because I feel it would be a massive injustice to this film if people were put off by people assuming critics weren't being true to their feelings on the film or viewers are simply talking up their enjoyment toI'm writing this review purely because I feel it would be a massive injustice to this film if people were put off by people assuming critics weren't being true to their feelings on the film or viewers are simply talking up their enjoyment to claim some perceived intellectual high-ground. This is certainly not an easy, sit back and consume film by any stretch of the imagination, but that is ultimately it's greatest strength, as the satisfaction at the final pay-off is all the larger for it. There are LOTS of strands to arrange and balls to juggle early on, and a massive part of this film keeping all the mental plates spinning as all the little pieces start to come together to create a seamlessly interlocking whole.
I disagree with arguments of pretension in this film. While I feel it's valid for Thomas Alfredson's 'Let the Right One In' more so, though I also enjoyed that, there is no interpretation required, everything you need to know is either on screen or in the script. The more attention paid the greater the rewards, which is surely the perfect undercurrent for a spellbinding spy movie.
I only don't give it a ten because if you either don't enjoy complexity in your films (though this is not the faux-complexity of bad story-telling) it isn't for you - which bares no relation to intelligence, purely taste. Classics need to be accessible and this isn't. But if you do access it it is a hugely rewarding and satisfying journey entirely unreliant on cheap tricks and hollywood mainstays. Two hours of beautiful brain workout and tantalising story depth.… Expand
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10
NilsJawaJan 13, 2012
This dense, slow, and complex film rewards the intelligent and invested viewer and repels those seeking a quick fix or spy thriller. Its sepia stained ambiance creates an increasingly tense character drama where a stellar cast interact atThis dense, slow, and complex film rewards the intelligent and invested viewer and repels those seeking a quick fix or spy thriller. Its sepia stained ambiance creates an increasingly tense character drama where a stellar cast interact at increasingly high tensions played, not through over dramatisation, but the machinations of the 70's English intelligence communities methodology. A highly rewarding film for those smart enough and engaged enough to commit to it.… Expand
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9
sesostrisJan 14, 2012
Angels:
This is a very good movie. You have to pay attention. It does not have a straight narrative. However, that is part of its appeal. It is a well constructed intriguing puzzle. The dialog is excellent. The acting is first rate. AndAngels:
This is a very good movie. You have to pay attention. It does not have a straight narrative. However, that is part of its appeal. It is a well constructed intriguing puzzle. The dialog is excellent. The acting is first rate. And there is a sense of suspense, or dread from beginning to end. Who is the mole? when is the next shoe going to drop? Will Smiley ever smile? If you are looking for a thoughtful, well constructed, beautifully acted, well-paced (o.k. slow paced) movie you will enjoy this immensely; I did. (In the interests of full disclosure, I have to tell you that my date fell asleep during the movie.)
Shine Brightly Angels… Expand
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7
slice3333Jan 16, 2012
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Got a chance to check out the movie "Tinker Tailor Solider Spy," starring Gary Oldman(The Dark Knight), Mark Strong(Sherlock Holmes), and Tom Hardy(The Dark Knight Rises). My first thought when I saw the previews for this movie is that it looks like a good movie. Then I said to myself, "Gary Oldman is in it, so how bad can it be." Gary Oldman is starting to become one of my favorite actors.

At any rate, this is a movie about a man that was forced out of retirement, but is asked to investigate a mole in the circle of his former job. George Smiley's former occupation was an intelligence officer. Smiley must find the mole that was in his former group so he can figure out the problem they had in their former operation. Which took place in Budapest, Hungary. This movie takes place in the early 1970's.(Cold War)

I have many thoughts about this movie so please bare with me! This is a movie that is going to be a little boring to some. This is a movie that you have to pay attention to. You may have to watch this movie twice, or even three times! To fully comprehend. Its a little hard to place what is going on at times in this movie. There were times it seems like they were going back in time, but it was a little hard for me to be sure. So there were parts in this movie were I made my first assumption and just stuck with it.

What made this movie a little easy to follow(for first time watchers) was the acting that was done well. Gary Oldman might receive an Oscar for this movie. If you get lost, just pay close attention to what the actors are doing and that should give you a comfortable grasp of what is going on. This movie also has some gruesome scenes that were surprising. There are some parts that make you say "did that really happen," or "did he or she just say that?" If you were suspecting a shoot em up bang bang kind of movie, this is not the movie for you.

Overall it is a solid movie. The acting is great. You have to keep in mind that your probably going to have to really be into these kinds of movies to fully appreciate this one. I give this movie the final rating of 7 out of 10.… Expand
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7
VisenyaJan 28, 2012
No one can really dispute that the acting was fantastic. It is probably some of Gary Oldman's best work, and the entire cast did a great job. The imagery is great as well, and really adds to the setting of the entire movie. There are quite aNo one can really dispute that the acting was fantastic. It is probably some of Gary Oldman's best work, and the entire cast did a great job. The imagery is great as well, and really adds to the setting of the entire movie. There are quite a few times when the shots say more than any of the character's words do. However, the pacing seemed to hit and miss. Sometimes it rushed ahead and you were sitting on the edge of your seat, and then sometimes it would seem to get lost and you couldn't wait for the scene to be over because it was just dragging on for too long. This is a movie that most people are going to need to see twice. Its complex and deep, and most people are going to come out of the theater confused about some of the finer points in the conspiracy. I recommend this movie, but any viewer should know that they can't just sit through the movie and trust it to spoon-feed you everything. You are going to have to think. But if you pay enough attention, you will be rewarded.… Expand
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10
Reshiram52Jan 29, 2012
The best things were the acting and the story, very very intriguing. Highly recommended for the suspense/thriller audience. It was very confusing I would say, had to watch it two times to completely understand almost every detail about theThe best things were the acting and the story, very very intriguing. Highly recommended for the suspense/thriller audience. It was very confusing I would say, had to watch it two times to completely understand almost every detail about the plot, but that's not a bad point in my opinion. A great movie anyways.… Expand
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10
BadMovieLoverFeb 4, 2012
This was a very engrossing, tightly woven, and well-paced film, that doesnâ
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2
rizzo212Feb 6, 2012
I really don't know what Alfredson was trying to accomplish with this movie because it is neither smart or complex; It's boring, uneventful, and totally confusing. Trying to be cerebral is one thing. Totally leaving your audience in the dustI really don't know what Alfredson was trying to accomplish with this movie because it is neither smart or complex; It's boring, uneventful, and totally confusing. Trying to be cerebral is one thing. Totally leaving your audience in the dust is another. And I say this admitting that I loved Let the Right one in - a beautiful movie. This on the other hand is self conceited mumbo jumbo.… Expand
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5
LokathorApr 25, 2014
This movie is confusing. This movie is slow. This movie is even boring. However, this movie presents a mood, and presents it perfectly. The mood is bleakness and mystery. This movie is great at what it does, but what it does is to sap theThis movie is confusing. This movie is slow. This movie is even boring. However, this movie presents a mood, and presents it perfectly. The mood is bleakness and mystery. This movie is great at what it does, but what it does is to sap the life from you and make everything seem bleak.… Expand
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7
beingryanjudeAug 29, 2014
As British as they come. Tinker Tailor Solider Spy is a unique, and likely, realistic look at the world of espionage during the Cold War. Gary Oldman gives a long-awaited Academy Award nominated performance.
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6
A_NorthernerSep 8, 2012
What's it all about?
Tinker Tailor Solider Spy is the first feature length film adaptation of John Le Carre's well respected spy novel of the same name. Set in the early 70's, in the midst of the Cold War, the film follows retired spy GeorgeWhat's it all about?
Tinker Tailor Solider Spy is the first feature length film adaptation of John Le Carre's well respected spy novel of the same name. Set in the early 70's, in the midst of the Cold War, the film follows retired spy George Smiley (Gary Oldman) as he is tasked with uncovering a suspected mole in the British spy fraternity known as 'the Circus'.

Should you watch it?
Following the press the film received and with the ensemble British cast (Oldman, Hardy, Firth, Hurt, Cumberbatch) I had high expectations for it. I'm sad to say the film fell somewhat short. Although a spy film, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is the complete polar opposite to Britain's most famous member of Her Majesty's Secret Service. Given what James Bond gets up to, it is therefore more than likely a far more realistic take on the world of government intelligence, in particular considering the era. This was not a problem for me, I love realism in stories but Tinker is too slow, too deliberate and too ponderous. Spying 70's style - glasses, coats, tweed and briefcases
Granted that the standard of acting is high, as you would expect from the cast and Gary Oldman is captivating with his quiet and understated performance as Smiley. The production also deserves credit and these two pluses carry the film a long way.

I'm sure that a lot of the detail of the book could not be squeezed into a two hour adaptation. The film is a slow-burner, which is usually my favourite type of story, but once the final act arrives it lacks any really punch and I could not recall any twist or even being led in any particular direction with my suspicions. Not what I would expect from a 'thriller'.

Worth watching to see the all round strong acting performances and production but I will definitely be reading the book in the hope it delivers a stronger story.… Expand
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9
SatiricalewokNov 9, 2014
This film is edge of seat gripping throughout, the tension does not let up for a second, and considering it isn't an "action" film. It is quite confusing, but if you properly watch it you should keep up. Every performance is fantastic,This film is edge of seat gripping throughout, the tension does not let up for a second, and considering it isn't an "action" film. It is quite confusing, but if you properly watch it you should keep up. Every performance is fantastic, especially Gary Oldman, who is always brilliant, and this could be his best yet.… Expand
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6
Apemonkey666Aug 18, 2012
Purely story driven film with great performances from a lot of fine British actors. Although the book was probably better coz there are lots of characters and names that you have to keep track off and there realy doesn't seem to be happeningPurely story driven film with great performances from a lot of fine British actors. Although the book was probably better coz there are lots of characters and names that you have to keep track off and there realy doesn't seem to be happening allot so it's easy to get distracted and lose focus. So don't watch it when you're wasted or spaced out ;)… Expand
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6
XposureSep 9, 2012
The plot is very difficult to comprehend, but the cast, the score, the screenplay and the atmosphere are all top notch. Ultimately, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a fairly enjoyable movie.
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8
JTKelleyAug 10, 2012
Not at all easy to follow, but worth the focus and attention necessary for understanding, as it weaves quite the nice mystery in an anti-James Bond sort of fashion.
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3
jigooAug 17, 2012
in reality this movie is just plain confusing. it starts off ok, but suddenly there are a number of random event and it becomes incredibly hard to follow whats going on. the only thing that somewhat saves this movie are its actors. Garyin reality this movie is just plain confusing. it starts off ok, but suddenly there are a number of random event and it becomes incredibly hard to follow whats going on. the only thing that somewhat saves this movie are its actors. Gary Oldman, John Hurt, Colin Firth, Toby Jones, and Mark Strong all give great performance as usual. but that doesnt completely save a movie when their performances cant tell you whats going on. From what ive heard, this is a book-adapted movie. apparently people who've read the book were able to enjoy it. but if not, then its not worth it. try a different movie unless youve read the book.… Expand
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10
GeorgerossiOct 5, 2012
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is just the best film of the decade, one of the best of the history! Gary Oldman is one of the gratest actor in the world, and the cast is one of the most impressive of the year.
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7
JawsLaxerDramaDec 20, 2012
It is long and to some, it is dull. I would agree there are times when it was boring, but only for a minute. It is hard to watch, but I'm glad I did!
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0
bob516Nov 27, 2021
I've enjoyed many slow paced movies but when there is no character I feel is engaging I cannot stand such a movie. Twenty minutes in I gave up. Wonderful sets, great atmosphere, but after that length of time I expect there to be a protagonistI've enjoyed many slow paced movies but when there is no character I feel is engaging I cannot stand such a movie. Twenty minutes in I gave up. Wonderful sets, great atmosphere, but after that length of time I expect there to be a protagonist who I would be interested in following their story and find out their fate. If my enjoyment of this movie is dependent on my having read the book then it fails as a movie.… Expand
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7
Compi24Nov 28, 2012
Although it doesn't exactly feature an entirely comprehensible plot, "Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy" still allows the audience an ear in on what's intrinsic to the story, and it also lets us view one of Gary Oldman's best performances to date.
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7
WiesyApr 6, 2013
I like this movie but there have to be more action in it. The actors are very good and the plot is good to, but the action. Very well acting by Garry Oldman and Mark Strong. It's a nice movie!
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9
FranzHcriticJan 19, 2015
For once in a long while, it's realistic. The reason why people are put off by this film is the unanimous opinion that this film is dull. Yes, it's hard to get onto. It's not James Bond. Subtlety is what drives this film, an often unwantedFor once in a long while, it's realistic. The reason why people are put off by this film is the unanimous opinion that this film is dull. Yes, it's hard to get onto. It's not James Bond. Subtlety is what drives this film, an often unwanted factor in a spy thriller. But it could all happen. Even the Russian accents are real. One of the few movies that uses Russian actors for Russians. Dull, yes. But incomprehensible? No.… Expand
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1
BearzyDec 18, 2013
Way too slow-paced for mid-twenties people to enjoy. My friends and I sat bored out of our minds through most of this movie. A couple interesting scenes, with good acting, but overall a lot of emphasis on watching characters walking down streets.
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4
underinNov 8, 2015
I was underwhelmed by the movie. It definitely deserves to be a TV series rather than a movie. Even though the movie consists of A class actors it doesnt really do justice to their talent. The photography and the cinematography are amazing though.
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7
AbeMCAug 18, 2016
The trailer is a lie. tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is slow, measured, and reflective; the twitch of a facial muscle can convey as much as a line of dialogue. And the entire film is hung with grey, drab visuals, grimy city air and unexpectedThe trailer is a lie. tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is slow, measured, and reflective; the twitch of a facial muscle can convey as much as a line of dialogue. And the entire film is hung with grey, drab visuals, grimy city air and unexpected shadows. Gary Oldman delivers a superb performance as Smiley (he doesn't speak for the first 30 minutes of the film); Mark Strong, Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, John Hurt and many others add to a great ensemble cast. Some of the film's timeline can be confusing, as the present is cross-cut with flashbacks that are not always immediately denoted as flashbacks, but if you've read John le Carre's book or watch the film multiple times, it's a minor quibble. The slow pacing and contemplative style won't be everyone's proverbial cup of tea, but the film is easily equal to the sum of its parts. A solid 7 out of 10.… Expand
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8
alejandro970Mar 12, 2017
Tangled but smart Cold War thriller that requires patience and discipline as viewer. Efficent performances from well chosen casting particularly Gary Oldman in a monologue.
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6
HassalehOct 14, 2016
It's amazing how with such a great cast and such an interesting premise the film makers actually managed to make this one of the most boring movies I have ever watched. Apparently, just attaching the name of a great author to your film is noIt's amazing how with such a great cast and such an interesting premise the film makers actually managed to make this one of the most boring movies I have ever watched. Apparently, just attaching the name of a great author to your film is no guarantee that it will deliver a compelling story. This one needed a huge injection of action but as it stands I miss the time that I spend forcing myself to stay awake through this flick.… Expand
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8
NBFCJan 9, 2018
About as anti-James Bond as you can get for a British spy thriller, which is based on the 1974 novel of the same name by John le Carre. Taking place in early 1970’s London, espionage veteran George Smiley (Gary Oldman who was nominated for anAbout as anti-James Bond as you can get for a British spy thriller, which is based on the 1974 novel of the same name by John le Carre. Taking place in early 1970’s London, espionage veteran George Smiley (Gary Oldman who was nominated for an Oscar for this role) is forced from semi-retirement in order to uncover the identity of a Soviet double agent at the top of MI6. A deliberate and clinical look into the paranoia and anxiety-filled world of espionage. Features about every one of your favorite British actors from Kingsman’s Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt, Mark Strong and Benedict Cumberbatch.… Expand
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8
grant28304Mar 18, 2018
A great slow burn spy movie. This is not a James bond or mission impossible type spy film full of action. Instead, Tinker, tailor soldier spy is a cerebral cat and mouse game where the viewer follows the protagonist tries to find the mole.A great slow burn spy movie. This is not a James bond or mission impossible type spy film full of action. Instead, Tinker, tailor soldier spy is a cerebral cat and mouse game where the viewer follows the protagonist tries to find the mole. The cast is fantastic.… Expand
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7
amheretojudgeApr 22, 2018
better come in..

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy If there is anyway one is supposed to create such character driven feature, its in this manner i.e. cunning, gripping and brewing brutality and tension among the characters revolving around thisbetter come in..

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy

If there is anyway one is supposed to create such character driven feature, its in this manner i.e. cunning, gripping and brewing brutality and tension among the characters revolving around this eerie bubble that they all reside in. Tomas Alfredson's brilliant execution is definitely a step forward but the screenplay by Peter Straughan and Bridget O'Connor (adapted from a novel by John le Carre) has already won this marathon before it even begins this around 2 hour journey. Gary Oldman has given his best in it along with the help of a great supporting cast like Benedict Cumberbatch, Colin Firth, Toby Jones and Tom Hardy. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy; despite of its brilliant execution and stellar performances, is a writers show that helps the feature kick in to their world from the first frame keeping it smart and true to its tone throughout the course of it.… Expand
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10
Cin726Nov 15, 2020
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a meticulously crafted masterpiece of the spy/thriller genre, with a career-best performance by Gary Oldman.
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5
ProfAmateurJan 5, 2023
Only for real spy fans. Story is very confusing and fails to get my attention the whole time. Furthermore the name is very confusing because it refers to a card game and in the movie it's chess. Well maybe it's just me who doesn't get it ^^'
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7
joshwashereMar 14, 2022
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a great slow-burn spy movie. The acting is well done - there's lots of atmosphere and emotion on display.

I had trouble keeping up with the decisions and deductions made by each character as the movieTinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is a great slow-burn spy movie. The acting is well done - there's lots of atmosphere and emotion on display.


I had trouble keeping up with the decisions and deductions made by each character as the movie progressed. Yet, the plot is delivered overall very slowly - at points so slow that I was waiting for the next scene.

I recommend this if you want to be kept on edge and are ok with pausing and rewatching bits to make sure that you understand the plot.… Expand
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0
micro101lab13Sep 5, 2022
Garbage...................................................................................................................
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