The Spy Who Came in from the Cold 1965

Alec Leamas a British spy is sent to East Germany supposedly to defect but in fact to sow disinformation. As more plot turns appear Leamas becomes more convinced that his own people see him as just a cog. His struggle back from dehumanization becomes the final focus of the story.

Review

Its truly refreshing to see a spy movie which does not involve fast cars bikini clad women super heroes etc. This movie shows how spies are used and discarded. The main character cannot perform stunning stunts while doing one hand push ups. He is just your average Joe who drinks too much and knows that there is no escape from his profession which he seems to hate. The idealism of young people seems to depress him even more which he rips apart towards the end (the highlight of the movie). The bleak look of the movie (its in B&W) gives it even more of an authentic look and sets the mood for the viewer. There are no explosions no car chases no sweeping a woman off her feet......just plain simple story telling.