Rent The Ipcress File (1965)

A good low-key spy thriller with Michael Caine in the driving seat - The Ipcress File review by Philip in Paradiso

A scientist called Radcliffe is kidnapped from a train. Harry Palmer, a British Army sergeant, now working for an MoD outfit, is summoned by his superior, Colonel Ross, and transferred to an investigation section headed by Major Dalby. H Palmer, played by an excellent Michael Caine, is the most interesting character in the story because he is a relatively complex individual with a troubled past. The other characters, overall, are stereotypical and formulaic in their roles/ acting.

It is a good film, as low-key spy thrillers go, and it is interesting to see London in the 1960s featured extensively in the movie -- a trip down memory lane for older viewers! The story is not entirely plausible, but the suspense keeps you hooked and wanting to know what will happen next. There is still a lack of depth in the plot and the characters, somehow, so that it cannot be a masterpiece or a truly unforgettable classic, in my opinion.

Still, I certainly recommend this film, more particularly if you like spy thrillers, the cinema of the 1960s and Michael Caine. Who doesn't?

A great 1960s period spy film - The Ipcress File review by RP

A great spy film starring Michael Caine as Sergeant Harry Palmer, a somewhat rebellious and ill-disciplined army intelligence spook in 1960s London. Much period background, gourmet cooking, and a little bit of mystery and adventure.

Harry investigates the brainwashing of British scientists, is captured and brainwashed himself, but escapes - and finds himself out on the streets of London and not in Eastern Europe as he imagined. Now to find the traitor in the department...

All good stuff, quite a few differences from Len Deighton's novel (including the fact that the central character definitely wasn't called 'Harry'), but enjoyable stuff nonetheless.

I enjoyed it, and although it's a little dated it gives a window onto the London of 50 years or so ago. 4/5 stars.

Classic 60s Spy Film - The Ipcress File review by GI

This adaptation of Len Deighton's successful spy novel came as the Bond franchise was really gaining momentum. Whereas Bond is suave, classy and enjoys the finer things in life Harry Palmer is a cynical, sarcastic and unmotivated agent who is being blackmailed to do the job. Michael Caine in his first leading role plays Palmer to perfection, with small nuances of expression and speech that highlight his disdain for the work, his bosses and that he is only in it for himself. In this regard The Ipcress File is a wonderful addition to the spy/espionage genre and a slightly anti-Bond stylisation. Set in the grimy streets of London it's a tale of blackmail, deceit and treachery as Palmer tries to locate a kidnapped scientist and unearths a double agent in the process. It's a great, unflashy story and shows off Caine for the great actor he is and star he was to become. Very stylish too with its editing and use of close ups and deep focus. There were two sequels to this film but neither live up to this first one. A film to rediscover and check out if you've never seen it as it's one of the best spy films.