The Ipcress File (1965): ****

Although the James Bond films and The Ipcress File (1965) were both released in the same decade, they are very different spy films, which is clear even in their opening credits. From Russia with Love (1963) has semi-naked women dancing sensually with the credits projected over their bodies. The Ipcress File’s opening credits roll whilst our bleary-eyed protagonist Harry Palmer (Michael Caine) makes himself a morning cup of coffee. Some viewers may be put off by the tone of The Ipcress File, it is not as glitzy or glamourous as the world of Bond world, nor is it as action driven. However, it is a first-rate thriller thanks to Caine’s performance and a tightly written plot. 

The Ipcress File, based on Len Deighton’s novel of the same name, follows Harry Palmer who is transferred to a new job in counter espionage, in order to investigate a brain drain amongst British scientists. Michael Caine manages to deliver the dry, sarcastic quips with ease and understatement. He encapsulates the banal nature of Palmer’s job: going through files in search of clues and trying to fill out complicated departmental forms. It is not, ‘Shoot first, ask questions later,’ it’s, ‘Ask questions, find clues, get clearance, go investigate, then maybe shoot later’. In his spare time he will gamble on horses and make himself an omelette whilst listening to classical music. 

Whilst the film emphasises the dreariness of spying, it does have its moments of action, with messy fist-fighting and brief gun fights. The plot is full of twists, unexpected developments and red herrings, leaving us second-guessing as to what is going to happen next. To discuss it in too much detail would spoil the viewing pleasure. The true nature of what is causing the brain drain is a bit dated; a relic from the Cold War-era playing into the fear of conformity. 

Otto Heller’s cinematography portrays London as a drab, dreary working city, full of greys, dark blues and browns. Ironically, one of the only scenes shot brightly is in the local supermarket, full of bustling shoppers trying to get the latest processed food – one of several criticisms on American influence within the film. Dutch angles, low angles and reveals are used in abundance throughout, although the effectiveness of these techniques varies, perhaps due to a lack of confidence in first time director Sidney J. Furie. The Ipcress File is an exemplary example of how to make a slow-burning, sharp spy thriller.