It's really easy to compare great television to works of literature. David Simon's The Wire is most often the focus of such praise, with its complex storyline described by many as 'novelistic.' Even modern works of television greatness, like Mad Men and Breaking Bad, are compared to Shakespearean and Victorian tragedies. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy certainly fits into the genre of such television, though unlike the shows mentioned above, it is actually based upon a book.
John le Carre's Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is one of the classic works of the spy genre, telling a story of Cold War intrigue that has proven timeless. The 1974 novel was adapted into this 1979 version starring Alec Guinness, and it's being adapted again into a star-studden film slated to drop in December 2011 (Gary Oldman plays lead character George Smiley in this version).
In anticipation of that film, Acorn Media has re-released the series onto DVD. The set hit shelves on October 25, and it's truly a great set. Guinness, fresh from his iconic role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the original Star Wars film, is a quiet, contemplative lead to a quiet, contemplative miniseries.
It's also a really complex miniseries; over the course of its six episodes, so many characters are introduced that it's difficult to tell them apart. That's why the set comes with a glossary of names and terms, just to help you sort them all out.
The series focuses on George Smiley, a spy pulled out of retirement to help find a mole in the 'Circus,' or British secret intelligence. The titular job descriptions are actually codenames for the suspects.
In addition to the show itself, the set also includes an exclusive interview with author John le Carre, which runs a full half hour. On-screen production notes, cast filmographies, and a biography of le Carre are also provided.
If you're looking to prepare yourself for the upcoming film (which looks awesome), or you just want to watch an iconic piece of British television, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is the show for you. Also out on DVD October 25 is the sequel series, Smiley's People, a review for which is forthcoming.
cant wait for dvd release ))
Sam McPherson is an amazing writer. I really loved this!