Review of The Ipcress File (1965) by Jon-James H — 25 Oct 2012

A great film in every sense of the word. It's difficult to fathom what happened to Sidney J Furie after this. His style and method is eye opening even forty seven years after its debut. From the start he engrosses the audience with striking angles that originate from common vantage points, and yet they his method of presentation makes them completely original. Whilst jarring, his use of the camera does not in anyway distract from a truly riveting story. This is not only a great film, but a lesson to any would be filmmakers.

Harry Palmer may be what most consider a typical man, but he is certainly an unconventional spy; breaking the rules and putting himself firmly before queen and country whenever an occasion merits he make such a sacrifice. A dislikeable rogue, he charms his way with the ladies and his acquaintances without going down the Bond route; where the outcomes are far too manufactured. Caine gives an Oscar worthy performance and it's easy to see why the film spawned two inferior, but nether the less entertaining, sequels.

If you are going to watch one British spy film this year make it the Ipcress file.