Likewise, an underlying commentary that takes aim at the privileged British elite lacks substance beyond surface-level dialogue.Ī Spy Among Friends boasts incredible performances within a multifaceted script. 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. With each minute detail potentially carrying huge significance, this is a show that demands the viewer’s utmost attention. The performances are only matched in sophistication by the meticulous editing and cinematography that weaves these various elements together. Martin, too, is an equally exceptional presence onscreen, bringing yet another dimension of drama to the series. 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. Pearce and Lewis are exquisite in the lead roles. 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. And amongst all that, the double agent gives his own account of events.

Simultaneously, Elliott reflects on his history with Philby as he questions his friendship, seemingly unsure himself why he did what he did. 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.

What follows is an enthralling hunt for the truth that’s approached from several angles and spans many decades and locations. 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. The series begins with the bombshell revelation that Philby has been a Soviet spy for two decades. 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.

A spy among friends by ben macintyre