While James Bond Is Long Gone: 3 Best Spy Movies If You Missed 007
Were you expecting Cars 2 or Spy Kids?
It's been two years without Daniel Craig 's James Bond, but worry not: there is plenty of fish in the sea of spy movies.
1. Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy
Based on the classic novel by John le Carré, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is a gripping and atmospheric Cold War thriller. Set in the 1970s, the film follows retired British intelligence officer George Smiley as he is brought back into the fold to uncover a Soviet mole within MI6.
The film presents a complex web of deception and betrayal, emphasizing the intellectual aspect of espionage rather than flashy action sequences. The movie's meticulous attention to detail makes it a must-see for any spy movie fan.
2. The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
For a more light-hearted take on the spy genre, look no further than The Man from U.N.C.L.E. Directed by Guy Ritchie, this stylish and witty film is based on the 1960s television series of the same name.
Also set during the Cold War, the film brings together American CIA agent Napoleon Solo and Soviet KGB operative Illya Kuryakin to stop a criminal organization from proliferating nuclear weapons.
With its charismatic leads, dazzling retro aesthetics, and a healthy dose of humor, The Man from U.N.C.L.E. offers a refreshing twist on the spy movie formula.
Unfortunately, the film failed to make enough money at the box office to justify a sequel. However, this does not prevent the aesthetically pleasing movie from being an excellent stand-alone.
3. The Bourne Identity
The Bourne Identity marks the beginning of a very successful spy thriller franchise. The movie stars Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, a man suffering from amnesia who discovers he has exceptional fighting skills and a mysterious past.
As Bourne attempts to piece together his identity, he becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the CIA. With its gritty action sequences and gripping story, this film revitalized the spy genre by introducing a more realistic and grounded approach to espionage.
The Bourne's screenwriter Tony Gilroy also created Rogue One and the recent Andor series, which delves deeper into the world of Star Wars. The series not only won the love of audiences and critics, but also opened up a new storytelling format for the George Lucas universe. So Gilroy's work is well worth seeing.