Are you craving some spy action? If you’ve exhausted the Bond franchise, completed the Mission: Impossible collection, and revisited the Bourne movies more times than is medically advisable, perhaps it’s time to look to television.
A lot of different shows come under the heading of a “spy thriller”. You’ll find action, family drama, comedy, politics and even the odd alien invasion all represented in this list. But there are a few things that they all have in common. They all feature twists and turns and characters keeping deep, dark secrets. They all have a tendency towards ruthlessness – don’t get too attached to any one person! The possibility that any character in the show might be killed off at any moment, up to and including the protagonist, is one of the things that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. And they are all compelling, unmissable TV.
A lot of different shows come under the heading of a “spy thriller”. You’ll find action, family drama, comedy, politics and even the odd alien invasion all represented in this list. But there are a few things that they all have in common. They all feature twists and turns and characters keeping deep, dark secrets. They all have a tendency towards ruthlessness – don’t get too attached to any one person! The possibility that any character in the show might be killed off at any moment, up to and including the protagonist, is one of the things that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. And they are all compelling, unmissable TV.
- 7/24/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Q. Detective Inspector Nicki Jennings, school headteacher Sita Anwar, nuclear physicist Ulanya Khomyuk, and MI5 spycatcher Lily Thomas… what do they have in common?
A. They’re all intelligent, high-achieving, mostly working class, female characters from period-set true story TV dramas, but unlike their castmates with real-world counterparts, none of them really existed.
At the end of a true-story drama, when the moment comes for viewers to see the real people the actors have been playing, the above lot have no accompanying photograph or news footage. Their roles are patchworks, either several real-world figures rolled into one, or wish-fulfilment created to open up storytelling perspectives. Wherever history hasn’t traditionally allowed women in, or wherever history books have failed to commemorate women’s work as (cough) rigorously as that of men, some screenwriters have opted to put their thumb on the scales.
MI5 intelligence officer Lily Thomas, played by Anna Maxwell Martin...
A. They’re all intelligent, high-achieving, mostly working class, female characters from period-set true story TV dramas, but unlike their castmates with real-world counterparts, none of them really existed.
At the end of a true-story drama, when the moment comes for viewers to see the real people the actors have been playing, the above lot have no accompanying photograph or news footage. Their roles are patchworks, either several real-world figures rolled into one, or wish-fulfilment created to open up storytelling perspectives. Wherever history hasn’t traditionally allowed women in, or wherever history books have failed to commemorate women’s work as (cough) rigorously as that of men, some screenwriters have opted to put their thumb on the scales.
MI5 intelligence officer Lily Thomas, played by Anna Maxwell Martin...
- 7/11/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Box Office
Gross box office in the European Union (EU) and the U.K. grew by 70% in 2022 compared with 2021 – from €3 billion ($3.27 billion) to €5.1 billion ($5.57 billion), down by 28% on pre-pandemic levels. The numbers were revealed in the 2023 edition of Focus – World Film Market Trends, a report which is prepared each year for the Cannes film market.
Three U.S. films, “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” topped the European charts in 2022, selling 34.4 million, 30.6 and 30.2 million tickets throughout the calendar year respectively. Cinema attendance in the EU and the U.K. increased by 63% from 403 million tickets sold in 2021 to an estimated 657 million in 2022, representing 67% of the average pre-pandemic admission level registered between 2017 and 2019.
European films also performed well and market share for European films increased year-on-year from 26.8% to 28.4% in 2022, the report recorded. It also notes that film production in the EU and the U.
Gross box office in the European Union (EU) and the U.K. grew by 70% in 2022 compared with 2021 – from €3 billion ($3.27 billion) to €5.1 billion ($5.57 billion), down by 28% on pre-pandemic levels. The numbers were revealed in the 2023 edition of Focus – World Film Market Trends, a report which is prepared each year for the Cannes film market.
Three U.S. films, “Top Gun: Maverick,” “Avatar: The Way of Water” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru” topped the European charts in 2022, selling 34.4 million, 30.6 and 30.2 million tickets throughout the calendar year respectively. Cinema attendance in the EU and the U.K. increased by 63% from 403 million tickets sold in 2021 to an estimated 657 million in 2022, representing 67% of the average pre-pandemic admission level registered between 2017 and 2019.
European films also performed well and market share for European films increased year-on-year from 26.8% to 28.4% in 2022, the report recorded. It also notes that film production in the EU and the U.
- 5/12/2023
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: A Spy Among Friends, the story of British spies Kim Philby and Nicholas Elliott that stars Damian Lewis and Guy Pearce, recently premiered on MGM+.
The series, which is produced by Sony Pictures Television, is based on Ben Macintyre’s eponymous book. Alexander Cary, who exec produced Lewis-fronted Homeland, created the A Spy Among Friends TV series.
Cary and Lewis, who also exec produced the MGM+ period drama, were at Deadline TV Contenders to talk up the show. They are now turning their attention to more Macintryre books for the small screen.
First up is an adaptation of The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War. The book tells the story of Oleg Gordievsky, a former Kgb colonel who became a bureau chief in London and was a double agent, providing information to the British secret intelligence service MI6.
It tells the story of how,...
The series, which is produced by Sony Pictures Television, is based on Ben Macintyre’s eponymous book. Alexander Cary, who exec produced Lewis-fronted Homeland, created the A Spy Among Friends TV series.
Cary and Lewis, who also exec produced the MGM+ period drama, were at Deadline TV Contenders to talk up the show. They are now turning their attention to more Macintryre books for the small screen.
First up is an adaptation of The Spy and the Traitor: The Greatest Espionage Story of the Cold War. The book tells the story of Oleg Gordievsky, a former Kgb colonel who became a bureau chief in London and was a double agent, providing information to the British secret intelligence service MI6.
It tells the story of how,...
- 4/16/2023
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, now streaming On MGM+:
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 3/26/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, now streaming On MGM+:
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 3/16/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Spies have always been the center of action thrillers like the James Bond and Jason Bourne franchises. But, a new breed of espionage story has become popular in recent years. Chronicling the more realistic world of spycraft, which involves psychological measures on the spies and their targets, this new type of story trades explosions and car chases for dialogue and back-room dealings. While that may sound less exciting, you have not seen A Spy Among Friends (read our review).
Telling the true story of Kim Philby and Nicholas Elliott, A Spy Among Friends tells the intricate and complex path that led to the discovery of a network of Soviet spies operating within the British secret intelligence agency. Based on the acclaimed book by Ben MacIntyre, A Spy Among Friends dramatizes how Elliott and Philby, long-time friends and colleagues, played a cat-and-mouse game with each other that eventually led to one...
Telling the true story of Kim Philby and Nicholas Elliott, A Spy Among Friends tells the intricate and complex path that led to the discovery of a network of Soviet spies operating within the British secret intelligence agency. Based on the acclaimed book by Ben MacIntyre, A Spy Among Friends dramatizes how Elliott and Philby, long-time friends and colleagues, played a cat-and-mouse game with each other that eventually led to one...
- 3/15/2023
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
If you like your international intrigue mixed with a dash of personal turmoil, MGM+ has the series for you. Based on the best-selling book by Ben Macintyre, the six-episode series “A Spy Among Friends” dramatizes the true story of Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby, two British spies and lifelong friends. However, Elliot is left in turmoil when he learns Philby had been secretly working as a double agent for the Kgb and has defected to the Soviet Union. The series premieres on Sunday, March 12 on MGM+. You can watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of MGM+.
How to Watch 'A Spy Among Friends' Series Premiere When: Sunday, March 12, 2023 Where: MGM+ Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of MGM+. 7-Day Free Trial$5.99 / month via amazon.com About 'A Spy Among Friends' Series Premiere
The series dramatizes the British spies and lifelong friends Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) and Kim Philby (Guy Pearce...
How to Watch 'A Spy Among Friends' Series Premiere When: Sunday, March 12, 2023 Where: MGM+ Stream: Watch with a 7-Day Free Trial of MGM+. 7-Day Free Trial$5.99 / month via amazon.com About 'A Spy Among Friends' Series Premiere
The series dramatizes the British spies and lifelong friends Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) and Kim Philby (Guy Pearce...
- 3/12/2023
- by Jessica Lerner
- The Streamable
The story of Kim Philby is perhaps too good to make up. The British spy, a double agent for Moscow, operated at the highest levels of the intelligence community; his ability to disseminate information to the Soviet Union, to which he eventually defected, is proof, perhaps, of the power of personal charm and erudition to cover over what’s lying in plain sight.
That’s the powerfully told story of “A Spy Among Friends,” which streamed on Itvx in the United Kingdom last year and which now arrives on nascent streamer MGM+. Guy Pearce plays Philby, who has at the series’ outset been a valued Soviet source for many years; likely his closest friend in tradecraft, Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis), must get a confession from him. We see the pair’s relationship over time in layered flashbacks, adding context and understanding to Elliott’s failure to nail down Philby.
The...
That’s the powerfully told story of “A Spy Among Friends,” which streamed on Itvx in the United Kingdom last year and which now arrives on nascent streamer MGM+. Guy Pearce plays Philby, who has at the series’ outset been a valued Soviet source for many years; likely his closest friend in tradecraft, Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis), must get a confession from him. We see the pair’s relationship over time in layered flashbacks, adding context and understanding to Elliott’s failure to nail down Philby.
The...
- 3/12/2023
- by Daniel D'Addario
- Variety Film + TV
Damian Lewis, who won an Emmy for playing Marine double agent Nicholas Brody on Homeland, is back in the spy game as a patriot in MGM+‘s A Spy Among Friends, a tense adaptation of Ben Macintyre’s nonfiction bestseller. Lewis is a reserved British intelligence man, Nicholas Elliott, who discovers that his best friend and colleague, the witty, charismatic Kim Philby (Guy Pearce) is a traitor. The case, which broke in the early 60s after Philby had spied for 30 years, became notorious in the U.K. When speaking with the cast recently, we asked which of them would make a better undercover operative in real life. Lewis enthusiastically endorsed Pearce, saying, “I’d be a terrible spy. Those moments in our lives when we’ve had a little secrecy, it’s kind of intoxicating, it’s a little bit of fun, you go, ‘that’s really great, no one knows what I’m doing,...
- 3/10/2023
- TV Insider
Plot: Based on the New York Times best-selling book written by Ben Macintyre, this six-episode limited series dramatizes the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby. The latter became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence.
Review: The story of Kim Philby, one of the most notorious spies discovered during the Cold War, has been told many times over in both books and documentaries. While speculative stories and alternate histories abound, Philby’s tale has inspired John Le Carre’s Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and the Matt Damon film The Good Shepherd. While these stories and adaptations have been interesting, the true story is fascinating in its own right. The new limited series A Spy Among Friends...
Review: The story of Kim Philby, one of the most notorious spies discovered during the Cold War, has been told many times over in both books and documentaries. While speculative stories and alternate histories abound, Philby’s tale has inspired John Le Carre’s Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy and the Matt Damon film The Good Shepherd. While these stories and adaptations have been interesting, the true story is fascinating in its own right. The new limited series A Spy Among Friends...
- 3/9/2023
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
If you learned your closest friend was a spy, would you help him evade justice? That’s the looming question in A Spy Among Friends, a slow-burn adaptation of Ben Macintyre’s nonfiction bestseller about an infamous U.K. traitor. The limited series opens in 1963 with reserved British intelligence man Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) being questioned by no-nonsense Lily Thomas (Anna Maxwell Martin) of the U.K.’s domestic intelligence agency MI5. The topic: Elliott’s role in the defection of his chum since the ’40s, charming Kim Philby (Guy Pearce), who has been outed as a double agent. Recruited by the Soviets as a university student at Cambridge in 1933, Philby rose to become head of counterespionage for MI6, the foreign intelligence unit that also encompasses the U.K. Which meant he was in charge of rooting out traitors like himself! (Credit: MGM+) There’s a good reason suspicion has...
- 2/24/2023
- TV Insider
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, streaming March 12, 2023 on MGM+:
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 2/10/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Uzo Aduba is trading in an orange jumpsuit for a magnifying glass in a new murder-mystery drama from Netflix.
The Orange is the New Black vet will play a detective in the whodunnit series The Residence, from production company Shondaland. The eight-episode series will utilize the book The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by journalist Kate Andersen Brower, as inspiration for the show’s premise.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Real Time With Bill Maher Renewed, Netflix's Untamed Starring Eric Bana and MoreSuits: L.A. Casts Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist Vet Alice Lee (Exclusive)SNL Taps Kristen Wiig,...
The Orange is the New Black vet will play a detective in the whodunnit series The Residence, from production company Shondaland. The eight-episode series will utilize the book The Residence: Inside the Private World of the White House by journalist Kate Andersen Brower, as inspiration for the show’s premise.
More from TVLineTVLine Items: Real Time With Bill Maher Renewed, Netflix's Untamed Starring Eric Bana and MoreSuits: L.A. Casts Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist Vet Alice Lee (Exclusive)SNL Taps Kristen Wiig,...
- 2/1/2023
- by Erianne Lewis
- TVLine.com
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, streaming March 12, 2023 on MGM+:
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
“…the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 1/25/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
MGM+ (formerly Epix) will launch in the U.S. on January 15.
The rebranded streaming service had an appearance at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour Tuesday, and we got some premiere dates for new and returning shows.
We already knew Godfather of Harlem would start the rebrand, with the third season premiering on January 15.
Murf the Surf follows on February 5, while A Spy Among Friends will arrive on March 12.
From Season 2, meanwhile, will touch down on April 23.
Created by John Griffin (Crater) and produced by Jack Bender and Jeff Pinkner, the series unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter.
Harold Perrineau (Lost) leads the cast alongside Catalina Sandino Moreno (The Affair), Eion Bailey (Once Upon a Time), Hannah Cheramy (Van Helsing), and Simon Webster (Strays).
Also starring is Ricky He (The Good Doctor), Chloe Van Landschoot (Skin), Corteon Moore (Utopia Falls), Pegah Ghafoori...
The rebranded streaming service had an appearance at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour Tuesday, and we got some premiere dates for new and returning shows.
We already knew Godfather of Harlem would start the rebrand, with the third season premiering on January 15.
Murf the Surf follows on February 5, while A Spy Among Friends will arrive on March 12.
From Season 2, meanwhile, will touch down on April 23.
Created by John Griffin (Crater) and produced by Jack Bender and Jeff Pinkner, the series unravels the mystery of a nightmarish town that traps all those who enter.
Harold Perrineau (Lost) leads the cast alongside Catalina Sandino Moreno (The Affair), Eion Bailey (Once Upon a Time), Hannah Cheramy (Van Helsing), and Simon Webster (Strays).
Also starring is Ricky He (The Good Doctor), Chloe Van Landschoot (Skin), Corteon Moore (Utopia Falls), Pegah Ghafoori...
- 1/11/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, streaming March 12, 2023 on MGM+:
"...the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
"...the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 1/10/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
A Spy Among Friends: Thriller Adaptation Starring Damian Lewis and Guy Pearce Gets MGM+ Release Date
A March release date has been set for MGM+’s adaptation of Ben Macintyre’s A Spy Among Friends, starring Emmy winners Damian Lewis (Homeland) and Guy Pearce (Mildred Pierce).
Specifically, the six-episode limited series will premiere Sunday, March 12, it was announced by MGM+ (fka Epix) at the Television Critics Association winter press tour in Pasadena.
More from TVLineFROM Season 2: Premiere Date Set for Sci-Fi Horror Series on MGM+Spider-Man Offshoot Silk: Spider Society Greenlit at MGM+, More Live-Action Marvel Shows to FollowEPIX Is Changing Its Name to MGM+
Based on Macintyre’s New York Times bestseller, A Spy Among Friends...
Specifically, the six-episode limited series will premiere Sunday, March 12, it was announced by MGM+ (fka Epix) at the Television Critics Association winter press tour in Pasadena.
More from TVLineFROM Season 2: Premiere Date Set for Sci-Fi Horror Series on MGM+Spider-Man Offshoot Silk: Spider Society Greenlit at MGM+, More Live-Action Marvel Shows to FollowEPIX Is Changing Its Name to MGM+
Based on Macintyre’s New York Times bestseller, A Spy Among Friends...
- 1/10/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
As part of the Television Critics Association’s 2023 Winter Press Tour, MGM+ (still known as Epix until Jan. 15) chief Michael Wright unveiled a programming lineup and development slate that includes premiere dates for several shows including “A Spy Among Friends,” Season 2 of “From,” and “Murf the Surf.”
“It’s a new beginning for our service, as we introduce MGM+ and its distinctive brand promise to viewers on January 15. MGM+ will deliver on its iconic and beloved studio legacy, with cinematic, sophisticated, and transportive storytelling that audiences love,” said Wright in a statement. “We are growing our rich library of content, comprised of original television series and blockbuster films that celebrate the MGM brand.”
The newly rebranded premium linear channel and streaming service will launch on Jan. 15 with the Season 3 premiere of “Godfather of Harlem.” Created by Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein, the drama series stars and is executive produced by Forest Whitaker.
“It’s a new beginning for our service, as we introduce MGM+ and its distinctive brand promise to viewers on January 15. MGM+ will deliver on its iconic and beloved studio legacy, with cinematic, sophisticated, and transportive storytelling that audiences love,” said Wright in a statement. “We are growing our rich library of content, comprised of original television series and blockbuster films that celebrate the MGM brand.”
The newly rebranded premium linear channel and streaming service will launch on Jan. 15 with the Season 3 premiere of “Godfather of Harlem.” Created by Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein, the drama series stars and is executive produced by Forest Whitaker.
- 1/10/2023
- by BreAnna Bell
- Variety Film + TV
If police drama remains the bedrock of British TV commissions, with 2022 having welcomed crime series Karen Pirie, Marlow, Magpie Murders, The Responder, Sherwood and many more, broadcasters also gave us a glittering seam of new fantasy and horror. Last year saw a host of new British supernatural and sci-fi series, from Joe Barton’s sci-fi action-thriller The Lazarus Project and the criminally since-cancelled YA Netflix fantasy The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself, BBC Three teen horror Red Rose, Sky dark comedy The Baby, as well as a new telling of John Wyndham’s spooky children classic The Midwich Cuckoos.
Then there were shows that combined both threads, such as Amazon Prime’s mind-twisting The Devil’s Hour starring Peter Capaldi and Jessica Raine, and Pete Jackson’s excellent debut Somewhere Boy. And some new British TV shows didn’t even feature a single murder, like Netflix’s adored Heartstopper graphic novel adaptation.
Then there were shows that combined both threads, such as Amazon Prime’s mind-twisting The Devil’s Hour starring Peter Capaldi and Jessica Raine, and Pete Jackson’s excellent debut Somewhere Boy. And some new British TV shows didn’t even feature a single murder, like Netflix’s adored Heartstopper graphic novel adaptation.
- 1/3/2023
- by Louisa Mellor
- Den of Geek
Just a couple of weeks from now, families will be gathered round Christmas trees, sharing mince pieces, singing yuletide songs, and unwrapping presents. And all over the country, dads – who’ve spent a lifetime receiving socks and ties – will be squeezing their rectangular packages. What could it be? A DVD of Saving Private Ryan? A box of Ferrero Rochers? Or the latest book by popular historian Ben Macintyre, whose accounts of modern British history are adored by men of a certain age?
Macintyre’s works include Rogue Heroes (adapted for a BBC TV series) and Operation Mincemeat (a hit in cinemas earlier this year), and the author is now making his debut on Itvx – a bold new streaming era for Britain’s third channel – with a big-budget adaptation of A Spy Among Friends, the inside story of the capture of Soviet double agent Kim Philby. Philby here is played by...
Macintyre’s works include Rogue Heroes (adapted for a BBC TV series) and Operation Mincemeat (a hit in cinemas earlier this year), and the author is now making his debut on Itvx – a bold new streaming era for Britain’s third channel – with a big-budget adaptation of A Spy Among Friends, the inside story of the capture of Soviet double agent Kim Philby. Philby here is played by...
- 12/8/2022
- by Nick Hilton
- The Independent - TV
“I’m not surprised,” says British-Egyptian actor Amir El-Masry on the recent news that hit BBC drama “Sas Rogue Heroes” has been picked up for a second season. “Steve [Steven Knight, the show’s writer and executive producer] is incredible and so is Tom Shankland [the show’s director]. He [Shankland] brought a really refreshing take on the story, he’s brought it to a modern audience, so I’m not surprised.”
El-Masry, who plays the fictional Dr. Gamal, is echoed by co-star Alfie Allen, who plays real-life army officer John “Jock” Lewes. “I can’t wait for season two and I think it will be an incredible experience for those involved. It’s incredibly deserved. Steven Knight is a fantastic writer and long may the ‘Sas Rogue Heroes’ train continue!” says Allen, who played Theon Greyjoy in “Game of Thrones.”
The show, based on the book of the same name by Ben Macintyre, charts...
El-Masry, who plays the fictional Dr. Gamal, is echoed by co-star Alfie Allen, who plays real-life army officer John “Jock” Lewes. “I can’t wait for season two and I think it will be an incredible experience for those involved. It’s incredibly deserved. Steven Knight is a fantastic writer and long may the ‘Sas Rogue Heroes’ train continue!” says Allen, who played Theon Greyjoy in “Game of Thrones.”
The show, based on the book of the same name by Ben Macintyre, charts...
- 12/8/2022
- by Rafa Sales Ross
- Variety Film + TV
On 9 November 1955, the world’s media crowded into a fourth-floor flat in South Kensington in London, their cameras trained on a self-assured man in his forties, speaking with the clipped accent and unshakeable confidence that is drilled into a certain class of British male through years of expensive schooling. He answers the questions posed by his American interviewer with few words, sometimes accompanied by the flicker of a smile, a slight air of ennui, as if he is bored with the whole charade.
His name is Harold Adrian Russell Philby, known to his friends, and now the world, as Kim. The interviewer asks whether Philby is satisfied with his newly clean reputation, now that he has been ruled out as “the so-called third man” – the mole thought to have tipped off British agents-turned-Soviet spies Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean, allowing the pair to defect to the Ussr in 1951. After Philby gives a brief assent,...
His name is Harold Adrian Russell Philby, known to his friends, and now the world, as Kim. The interviewer asks whether Philby is satisfied with his newly clean reputation, now that he has been ruled out as “the so-called third man” – the mole thought to have tipped off British agents-turned-Soviet spies Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean, allowing the pair to defect to the Ussr in 1951. After Philby gives a brief assent,...
- 12/8/2022
- by Katie Rosseinsky
- The Independent - TV
On 9 November 1955, the world’s media crowded into a fourth-floor flat in South Kensington in London, their cameras trained on a self-assured man in his forties, speaking with the clipped accent and unshakeable confidence that is drilled into a certain class of British male through years of expensive schooling. He answers the questions posed by his American interviewer with few words, sometimes accompanied by the flicker of a smile, a slight air of ennui, as if he is bored with the whole charade.
His name is Harold Adrian Russell Philby, known to his friends, and now the world, as Kim. The interviewer asks whether Philby is satisfied with his newly clean reputation, now that he has been ruled out as “the so-called third man” – the mole thought to have tipped off British agents-turned-Soviet spies Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean, allowing the pair to defect to the Ussr in 1951. After Philby gives a brief assent,...
His name is Harold Adrian Russell Philby, known to his friends, and now the world, as Kim. The interviewer asks whether Philby is satisfied with his newly clean reputation, now that he has been ruled out as “the so-called third man” – the mole thought to have tipped off British agents-turned-Soviet spies Guy Burgess and Donald Maclean, allowing the pair to defect to the Ussr in 1951. After Philby gives a brief assent,...
- 12/8/2022
- by Katie Rosseinsky
- The Independent - TV
A Spy Among Friends is headed to MGM+ (the soon-to-be rebranded Epix). The spy drama was originally slated for Spectrum Originals, but that service has exited the scripted business. Six episodes are planned for the limited series, which will arrive in 2023.
Based on the book by Ben Macintyre, the drama stars Damien Lewis and Guy Pearce. It will follow a pair of British spies and lifelong friends as one defects to Russia during the height of the cold war.
Read More…...
Based on the book by Ben Macintyre, the drama stars Damien Lewis and Guy Pearce. It will follow a pair of British spies and lifelong friends as one defects to Russia during the height of the cold war.
Read More…...
- 11/30/2022
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Guy Pearce also stars in the Cold War thriller based on double agent Kim Philby.
Sony Pictures Television has landed a raft of global sales on espionage thriller A Spy Among Friends.
A Spy Among Friends has sold to 117 territories for Sony Pictures Television. The series stars and is executive produced by UK star Damian Lewis, with Australian actor Guy Pearce and the UK’s Anna Maxwell-Martin also starring.
The Cold War thriller is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel and tells the true story of follows British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent Kim Philby, and is co-produced by...
Sony Pictures Television has landed a raft of global sales on espionage thriller A Spy Among Friends.
A Spy Among Friends has sold to 117 territories for Sony Pictures Television. The series stars and is executive produced by UK star Damian Lewis, with Australian actor Guy Pearce and the UK’s Anna Maxwell-Martin also starring.
The Cold War thriller is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel and tells the true story of follows British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent Kim Philby, and is co-produced by...
- 11/30/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
The series stars Damian Lewis, Guy Pearce and Anna Maxwell-Martin.
Sony Pictures Television has landed a raft of global sales on espionage thriller A Spy Among Friends.
A Spy Among Friends has sold to 117 territories for Sony Pictures Television. The series stars and is executive produced by UK star Damian Lewis, with Australian actor Guy Pearce and the UK’s Anna Maxwell-Martin also starring.
The Cold War thriller is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel and tells the true story of follows British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent Kim Philby, and is co-produced by ITV Studios and Sony Pictures Television.
Sony Pictures Television has landed a raft of global sales on espionage thriller A Spy Among Friends.
A Spy Among Friends has sold to 117 territories for Sony Pictures Television. The series stars and is executive produced by UK star Damian Lewis, with Australian actor Guy Pearce and the UK’s Anna Maxwell-Martin also starring.
The Cold War thriller is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel and tells the true story of follows British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent Kim Philby, and is co-produced by ITV Studios and Sony Pictures Television.
- 11/30/2022
- by Mona Tabbara
- ScreenDaily
The new six-episode dramatic TV series "A Spy Among Friends", based on the novel by Ben Macintyre, stars Damian Lewis ("Band Of Brothers") and Guy Pearce ("Memento"), with Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson, streaming in 2023 on MGM+:
"...the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
"...the series follows two British spies and lifelong friends, 'Nicholas Elliott' and 'Kim Philby'. Philby became the most notorious Brit defector and 'Soviet' double agent in history.
"His deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the 'Cold War', resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence..."
Click the images to enlarge...
- 11/30/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Ben Macintyre’s best-selling novel A Spy Among Friends is being adapted into a scripted crime drama for MGM+, with Damian Lewis (Billions) and Guy Pearce (Mare of Easttown) starring in lead roles. MGM+ is the new name for Epix from early 2023. The six-episode series tells the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby, the latter of which became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. The drama will explore how Philby’s profoundly personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence. Created by Alexander Cary (Homeland) and produced by ITV Studios in collaboration with Sony Pictures Television, A Spy Among Friends stars Emmy winners Lewis and Pearce alongside Anna Maxwell Martin (Line of Duty), Stephen Kunken (The Handmaid’s Tale), and Adrian Edmondson (Back to Life). “I’m...
- 11/29/2022
- TV Insider
MGM+, the linear channel and streaming service previously known as Epix, has picked up crime drama “A Spy Among Friends.” The British limited series was commissioned by ITV Studios and was originally set to air as a Spectrum Original in the U.S. before that cabler was shuttered in August.
“A Spy Among Friends” is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel of the same and dramatizes the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) and Kim Philby (Guy Pearce). The latter became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence. Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson also star.
After debuting on Itvx in the U.K. in December, “A Spy Among Friends” will premiere on MGM+ in...
“A Spy Among Friends” is based on Ben Macintyre’s novel of the same and dramatizes the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott (Damian Lewis) and Kim Philby (Guy Pearce). The latter became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence. Anna Maxwell Martin, Stephen Kunken and Adrian Edmondson also star.
After debuting on Itvx in the U.K. in December, “A Spy Among Friends” will premiere on MGM+ in...
- 11/29/2022
- by Selome Hailu
- Variety Film + TV
MGM+, which was previously named Epix, has picked up limited thriller series “A Spy Among Friends.” The new series is based on the New York Times best-selling novel written by Ben Macintyre. It’s set to premiere in 2023.
The six-episode crime drama will reimagine the real-life story of two British spies — Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby — who are also longtime fiends. “[Philby] became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence,” reads a description for the series.
“A Spy Among Friends” stars award-winning actor Damian Lewis and Emmy winner Guy Pearce. Other cast members includes Anna Maxwell, Stephen Kunken, and Adrian Edmondson.
Also Read:
Mark Burnett Exits as MGM Worldwide TV Group Chairman
The series, which was created by British writer Alexander Cary, will be...
The six-episode crime drama will reimagine the real-life story of two British spies — Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby — who are also longtime fiends. “[Philby] became the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American intelligence,” reads a description for the series.
“A Spy Among Friends” stars award-winning actor Damian Lewis and Emmy winner Guy Pearce. Other cast members includes Anna Maxwell, Stephen Kunken, and Adrian Edmondson.
Also Read:
Mark Burnett Exits as MGM Worldwide TV Group Chairman
The series, which was created by British writer Alexander Cary, will be...
- 11/29/2022
- by Raquel "Rocky" Harris
- The Wrap
Damian Lewis and Guy Pearce-fronted drama series A Spy Among Friends has found a new home in the U.S. following Spectrum’s move out of original series.
The spy thriller, which is a co-production with UK streamer Itvx, has landed at MGM+, the network formerly known as Epix.
It comes after the series premiered at the London Film Festival and ahead of its British launch in December.
The six-part series, which is based on Ben Macintyre’s book, tells the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby.
A Spy Among Friends follows the defection of notorious British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent, Kim Philby, played by Pearce, through the lens of his complex relationship with MI6 colleague and close friend, Nicholas Elliott, played by Lewis. The show examines espionage through their friendship, the fallout of which affects East-West relations to this day.
The spy thriller, which is a co-production with UK streamer Itvx, has landed at MGM+, the network formerly known as Epix.
It comes after the series premiered at the London Film Festival and ahead of its British launch in December.
The six-part series, which is based on Ben Macintyre’s book, tells the true story of two British spies and lifelong friends, Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby.
A Spy Among Friends follows the defection of notorious British intelligence officer and Kgb double agent, Kim Philby, played by Pearce, through the lens of his complex relationship with MI6 colleague and close friend, Nicholas Elliott, played by Lewis. The show examines espionage through their friendship, the fallout of which affects East-West relations to this day.
- 11/29/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
MGM+, the premium cable network and streamer currently known as Epix, has landed domestic rights to Damian Lewis drama A Spy Among Friends after the series was to have aired as a Spectrum original.
The six-episode series that reunites the Billions star with his former Homeland exec producer Alexander Cary was among the programs that were left without a home after Charter shut down its Spectrum Originals banner following the departure of exec Katherine Pope. Pope departed cable service Charter to take over as president of indie studio Sony Pictures Television, which produces Spy. Pope previously bought the show during her time at Charter and now sold it to MGM+ in her new role atop Sony TV.
Created by Cary, Spy is based on the New York Times best-selling book by Ben Macintyre. The series, produced by Sony and BritBox parent ITV Studios and Veritas Entertainment Group,...
MGM+, the premium cable network and streamer currently known as Epix, has landed domestic rights to Damian Lewis drama A Spy Among Friends after the series was to have aired as a Spectrum original.
The six-episode series that reunites the Billions star with his former Homeland exec producer Alexander Cary was among the programs that were left without a home after Charter shut down its Spectrum Originals banner following the departure of exec Katherine Pope. Pope departed cable service Charter to take over as president of indie studio Sony Pictures Television, which produces Spy. Pope previously bought the show during her time at Charter and now sold it to MGM+ in her new role atop Sony TV.
Created by Cary, Spy is based on the New York Times best-selling book by Ben Macintyre. The series, produced by Sony and BritBox parent ITV Studios and Veritas Entertainment Group,...
- 11/29/2022
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On the 8th of December, ITV Hub is being replaced by ITV’s brand-new streaming service, Itvx. Yes, this might seem like the latest in a long line of rebrands that don’t appear to change anything concrete but Itvx will host new and exclusive programmes.
Like ITV Hub currently, you’ll also be able to watch the ITV channels live on Itvx – although let’s hope the new service has ironed out the live-streaming problems that frustrated so many football fans during last year’s Euros.
Itvx: Free and Paid For Options (Including BritBox)
Itvx will have over 10,000 hours of content to stream for free, including past and present ITV dramas and documentaries, some US series, and hundreds of films (including the Back to the Future trilogy).
There’s also a paid subscription option which removes adverts and also includes BritBox – the boxset streaming service which ITV formerly collaborated...
Like ITV Hub currently, you’ll also be able to watch the ITV channels live on Itvx – although let’s hope the new service has ironed out the live-streaming problems that frustrated so many football fans during last year’s Euros.
Itvx: Free and Paid For Options (Including BritBox)
Itvx will have over 10,000 hours of content to stream for free, including past and present ITV dramas and documentaries, some US series, and hundreds of films (including the Back to the Future trilogy).
There’s also a paid subscription option which removes adverts and also includes BritBox – the boxset streaming service which ITV formerly collaborated...
- 11/15/2022
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
Network: Epix
Episodes: Ongoing (hour)
Seasons: Ongoing
TV show dates: November 13, 2022 -- present
Series status: Has not been cancelled
Performers include: Connor Swindells, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen, Tom Glynn-Carney, Sofia Boutella, Dominic West, Amir El Masry, Theo Barklem-Biggs, Corin Silva, Jacob Ifan, Dónal Finn, Jacob McCarthy, César Domboy, Michael Schaeffer, and Miles Jupp.
TV show description:
A historical drama series, the Rogue Heroes TV show was created by Steven Knight and is based on the book by Ben Macintyre.
The story is a dramatized account of how the world's greatest Special Forces unit was formed under extraordinary circumstances in the darkest days of World War Two.
Read More…...
Episodes: Ongoing (hour)
Seasons: Ongoing
TV show dates: November 13, 2022 -- present
Series status: Has not been cancelled
Performers include: Connor Swindells, Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen, Tom Glynn-Carney, Sofia Boutella, Dominic West, Amir El Masry, Theo Barklem-Biggs, Corin Silva, Jacob Ifan, Dónal Finn, Jacob McCarthy, César Domboy, Michael Schaeffer, and Miles Jupp.
TV show description:
A historical drama series, the Rogue Heroes TV show was created by Steven Knight and is based on the book by Ben Macintyre.
The story is a dramatized account of how the world's greatest Special Forces unit was formed under extraordinary circumstances in the darkest days of World War Two.
Read More…...
- 11/14/2022
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
This is an incredibly busy (and fruitful) week.
Yellowstone Returns! And with it comes a new show in the Taylor Sheridan universe, Sylvester Stallone’s Tulsa King.
There’s a terrific series called Rogue Heroes premiering, Elite returns on Netflix along with Dead to Me, and a little bit of horror called 1899 (Not associated with Yellowstone prequels).
And let’s not forget Christmas! The long-awaited genuine follow-up to A Christmas Story premieres on HBO Max, and The Santa Clauses touch down on rooftops everywhere on Disney+.
Saturday, November 12
8/7c Reindeer Games Homecoming (Lifetime)
It’s a reunion that’s worth your time when Sarah Drew and Justin Bruening co-star in this heartfelt, funny, and emotional holiday film written and executive produced by Drew.
The chemistry between them absolutely crackles and makes this holiday flick worth your while, and they’ll have you glued to the screen and totally wrapped...
Yellowstone Returns! And with it comes a new show in the Taylor Sheridan universe, Sylvester Stallone’s Tulsa King.
There’s a terrific series called Rogue Heroes premiering, Elite returns on Netflix along with Dead to Me, and a little bit of horror called 1899 (Not associated with Yellowstone prequels).
And let’s not forget Christmas! The long-awaited genuine follow-up to A Christmas Story premieres on HBO Max, and The Santa Clauses touch down on rooftops everywhere on Disney+.
Saturday, November 12
8/7c Reindeer Games Homecoming (Lifetime)
It’s a reunion that’s worth your time when Sarah Drew and Justin Bruening co-star in this heartfelt, funny, and emotional holiday film written and executive produced by Drew.
The chemistry between them absolutely crackles and makes this holiday flick worth your while, and they’ll have you glued to the screen and totally wrapped...
- 11/12/2022
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
Plot: Based on Ben Macintyre’s best-selling book of the same name, the series centers on David Stirling, an eccentric young officer who is hospitalized after a training exercise gone wrong. Convinced that traditional commando units don’t work, Stirling creates a radical plan that flies in the face of all accepted rules of modern warfare. He fights for permission to recruit the toughest, boldest, and brightest soldiers for a small undercover unit that will create mayhem behind enemy lines. More rebels than soldiers, Stirling’s team is every bit as complicated, flawed, and reckless as it is brave and heroic.
Review: Steven Knight has long been involved in scripting some of the more intriguing films and television series of the last few decades. Somehow, Knight has made everything from chess (Pawn Sacrifice) to blindness (AppleTV+ series See) into thrilling storytelling. His most popular project is the recently concluded historical crime series Peaky Blinders.
Review: Steven Knight has long been involved in scripting some of the more intriguing films and television series of the last few decades. Somehow, Knight has made everything from chess (Pawn Sacrifice) to blindness (AppleTV+ series See) into thrilling storytelling. His most popular project is the recently concluded historical crime series Peaky Blinders.
- 11/11/2022
- by Alex Maidy
- JoBlo.com
Britain’s freshest new streaming service has launched a trailer for the star-studded spy thriller, ‘A Spy Among Friends.’
Based on the New York Times best-selling book written by Ben Macintyre, the six-episode series dramatises the true story of Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby, two British spies and lifelong friends. Philby was the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. This is a story of intimate duplicity; loyalty, trust and treachery. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American Intelligence.
Alexander Cary is the creator and executive producer alongside ITV Studios’ Patrick Spence and Nick Murphy.
Launching on 8th December, Itvx is a new, free streaming platform. Replacing ITV Hub as the online home of all ITV content, viewers can expect a new and improved product experience through Itvx as well as more new...
Based on the New York Times best-selling book written by Ben Macintyre, the six-episode series dramatises the true story of Nicholas Elliott and Kim Philby, two British spies and lifelong friends. Philby was the most notorious British defector and Soviet double agent in history. This is a story of intimate duplicity; loyalty, trust and treachery. Philby’s deeply personal betrayal, uncovered at the height of the Cold War, resulted in the gutting of British and American Intelligence.
Alexander Cary is the creator and executive producer alongside ITV Studios’ Patrick Spence and Nick Murphy.
Launching on 8th December, Itvx is a new, free streaming platform. Replacing ITV Hub as the online home of all ITV content, viewers can expect a new and improved product experience through Itvx as well as more new...
- 11/9/2022
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
BBC Two’s new primetime Sunday night drama, Sas Rogue Heroes, will follow the adrenaline-fuelled origins of the Sas during the Second World War.
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
- 10/31/2022
- by Furvah Shah
- The Independent - TV
Never judge a book by its cover, they say, and perhaps the same is true for TV. The BBC’s new Sunday night thriller – Sas Rogue Heroes, based on the book by prolific popular historian Ben Macintyre – is saddled with a name so naff that it conjures images either of video game stealth missions or Ant Middleton dangling celebrities off cliffs by their toenails. In point of fact, Sas Rogue Heroes is something of a prestige drama – albeit one imbued with a streak of deep tackiness that befits its title.
It’s 1941, Egypt, and this is the story of three men: David Stirling (Sex Education’s Connor Swindells), a toff burdened with horrific levels of self-confidence, Jock Lewes (Game of Thrones’s Alfie Allen), a “mad martinet”, and Paddy Mayne (Starred Up’s Jack O’Connell), an Irishman with a reckless propensity for chaos. Together, they will found the Sas, via a series of alcohol-fuelled shenanigans.
It’s 1941, Egypt, and this is the story of three men: David Stirling (Sex Education’s Connor Swindells), a toff burdened with horrific levels of self-confidence, Jock Lewes (Game of Thrones’s Alfie Allen), a “mad martinet”, and Paddy Mayne (Starred Up’s Jack O’Connell), an Irishman with a reckless propensity for chaos. Together, they will found the Sas, via a series of alcohol-fuelled shenanigans.
- 10/30/2022
- by Nick Hilton
- The Independent - TV
Warning: this article contains Spoilers for Sas: Rogue Heroes
Sas: Rogue Heroes – a historical drama depicting the fascinating true story of how the famed Special Air Service was formed – is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer. The six-part series has been created by Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight, and is based on the bestselling book of the same name by historian Ben Macintyre.
Tune in, and you’ll meet Paddy Mayne, one of the founding members of the Sas (played by Skins star Jack O’Connell), a rogue hero whose history is still mired in controversy.
Why? Because some consider him to be the bravest soldier in history never to be awarded the Victoria Cross – the highest military award for gallantry – and to this day, there’s an active campaign for it to be awarded posthumously.
A boxer, a Northern Ireland rugby star and reportedly an excellent shot, Robert Blair...
Sas: Rogue Heroes – a historical drama depicting the fascinating true story of how the famed Special Air Service was formed – is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer. The six-part series has been created by Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight, and is based on the bestselling book of the same name by historian Ben Macintyre.
Tune in, and you’ll meet Paddy Mayne, one of the founding members of the Sas (played by Skins star Jack O’Connell), a rogue hero whose history is still mired in controversy.
Why? Because some consider him to be the bravest soldier in history never to be awarded the Victoria Cross – the highest military award for gallantry – and to this day, there’s an active campaign for it to be awarded posthumously.
A boxer, a Northern Ireland rugby star and reportedly an excellent shot, Robert Blair...
- 10/30/2022
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
BBC Two’s new primetime Sunday night drama, Sas Rogue Heroes, will follow the adrenaline-fuelled origins of the Sas during the Second World War.
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
- 10/30/2022
- by Furvah Shah
- The Independent - TV
Sas: Rogue Heroes is one of autumn’s most anticipated British TV dramas. Based on the bestselling book by Ben Macintyre, and created by Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight, it tells the fascinating true story of how the famed Sas (Special Air Service) was formed during the darkest days of World War Two.
Sas: Rogue Heroes Release Date
The swaggering historical drama begins airing on BBC One this Sunday 30th October at 9pm and will air weekly until Sunday the 4th of December. Even better news for binge-watchers: the full six-part box set will also be available on BBC iPlayer once the first episode finishes.
In the US, you’ll be able to watch the series on Epix starting on November 13th.
Here’s the trailer:
What’s Sas: Rogue Heroes About?
The official BBC synopsis tells us:
Cairo, 1941. David Stirling (Connor Swindells) – an eccentric young officer, hospitalised after a...
Sas: Rogue Heroes Release Date
The swaggering historical drama begins airing on BBC One this Sunday 30th October at 9pm and will air weekly until Sunday the 4th of December. Even better news for binge-watchers: the full six-part box set will also be available on BBC iPlayer once the first episode finishes.
In the US, you’ll be able to watch the series on Epix starting on November 13th.
Here’s the trailer:
What’s Sas: Rogue Heroes About?
The official BBC synopsis tells us:
Cairo, 1941. David Stirling (Connor Swindells) – an eccentric young officer, hospitalised after a...
- 10/30/2022
- by Lauravickersgreen
- Den of Geek
BBC Two’s new primetime Sunday night drama, Sas Rogue Heroes, will follow the adrenaline-fuelled origins of the Sas during the Second World War.
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
- 10/30/2022
- by Furvah Shah
- The Independent - TV
They were the golden couple of British acting, but Helen McCrory’s death last year left her husband shattered. Now he is putting the pieces of himself back together – and finding a new creative energy
The entrance to the private members’ club is so unobtrusive it is barely visible. I walk up the back stairs to a well-disguised roof terrace. A member of staff seems to know why I’m here, and shows me to a discreet table with barely a word. Damian Lewis is sitting there alone, tucking into a plate of sea bass. “Sorry, I couldn’t wait,” he says, looking up. “I was starving.” We move on to the veranda – an even more private spot. I half expect him to show me a secret code, tell me to consign it to memory, and walk away. It feels like a scene from a spy novel.
Lewis has the...
The entrance to the private members’ club is so unobtrusive it is barely visible. I walk up the back stairs to a well-disguised roof terrace. A member of staff seems to know why I’m here, and shows me to a discreet table with barely a word. Damian Lewis is sitting there alone, tucking into a plate of sea bass. “Sorry, I couldn’t wait,” he says, looking up. “I was starving.” We move on to the veranda – an even more private spot. I half expect him to show me a secret code, tell me to consign it to memory, and walk away. It feels like a scene from a spy novel.
Lewis has the...
- 10/29/2022
- by Simon Hattenstone
- The Guardian - Film News
Exclusive: Sex Education’s Connor Swindells said he felt privileged to land the lead role in the stonking BBC One WW2 desert warfare drama Sas Rogue Heroes, and he praised director, Tom Shankland (The Serpent) “for considering me for this, because this isn’t something that comes my way.”
The six-part drama, written and created by Peaky Blinders’ Steven Knight and from Kudos, is based on Ben Macintyre’s 2016 bestselling authorized wartime history of the Sas.
Swindells, proudly working-class, said that he was apprehensive about auditioning for the part of David Archibald Stirling, a Scots Guard officer and scion of a grand Scottish family with bloodlines stretching back on his mother’s side to King Charles II, and son of a WW1-decorated army general.
“I hadn’t been in those conversations for these types of roles, and it was really Tom Shankland that championed me so much. He really...
The six-part drama, written and created by Peaky Blinders’ Steven Knight and from Kudos, is based on Ben Macintyre’s 2016 bestselling authorized wartime history of the Sas.
Swindells, proudly working-class, said that he was apprehensive about auditioning for the part of David Archibald Stirling, a Scots Guard officer and scion of a grand Scottish family with bloodlines stretching back on his mother’s side to King Charles II, and son of a WW1-decorated army general.
“I hadn’t been in those conversations for these types of roles, and it was really Tom Shankland that championed me so much. He really...
- 10/28/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
BBC Two’s new primetime Sunday night drama, Sas Rogue Heroes, will follow the adrenaline-fuelled origins of the Sas during the Second World War.
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
Written and directed by Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, and based on bestselling author Ben Macintyre’s book, Sas Rogue Heroes stars Jack O’Connell, Alfie Allen and Connor Swindells as the fearless real-life soldiers who formed the Special Forces unit.
Knight, meanwhile, previously shared that he had to tone down the script to make the true tories of the war heroes seem more plausible, with the series carrying a disclaimer that the events in the show “seem most unbelievable” but “are mostly true”.
Macintyre told The Times that the new TV adaptation of his book has a “rocking modern soundtrack, gripping action and some superb individual performances”.
“Knight’s script [depicts] a group of courageous warriors who teeter on the edge of madness, revelling in warfare, and deeply,...
- 10/27/2022
- by Furvah Shah
- The Independent - TV
Nothing has quite the same screen allure as a secret world. Espionage is so secret, by definition, that we have to take even its existence as a matter of trust; all we know about what goes on behind the intelligence agencies’ closed doors is what is relayed to us through books, films and series like A Spy Among Friends, based on Ben Macintyre’s book about the British double agent Kim Philby. Presumably, a certain kind of person is drawn to that world where nothing can be let slip outside it. To work for both sides, one must constantly be aware of who said what to whom, who knows what, who saw you where, who remembers you there — that anyone should want that life is a mystery in itself.
A Spy Among Friends – two episodes of which are screening as part of the London Film Festival – reunites Alexander Cary, a...
A Spy Among Friends – two episodes of which are screening as part of the London Film Festival – reunites Alexander Cary, a...
- 10/7/2022
- by Stephanie Bunbury
- Deadline Film + TV
"I have an idea that might move the war in our favor." BBC & Epix has revealed two official trailers for the upcoming mini-series titled Sas: Rogue Heroes, about the original creation of the Special Forces unit, the Special Air Service ("Sas") during World War II. This is kind of a more realistic (based on a true story) version of The Kingsman series, about a secret British unit of elite specialists whose goal was to disrupt the German war efforts before they got any worse. The Sas was the brainchild of David Stirling, a young, gadabout aristocrat whose aimlessness in early life belied a remarkable strategic mind. The six-part drama is based on Ben Macintyre's book, which charts the creation of the famed Special Forces unit. "More rebels than soldiers, Stirling's team is every bit as complicated, flawed, and reckless as it is brave and heroic." Starring Connor Swindells as Stirling,...
- 10/4/2022
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
"Peaky Blinders" creator Steven Knight has lined up his next TV series with "Rogue Heroes," a World War II drama with attitude about the founding of the Special Air Service (Sas). The series is coming your way this fall on Epix and BBC One, and now the first trailer for it is here.
Knight is also known for his other collaborations with Tom Hardy — the one-man movie, "Locke," and the one-season show, "Taboo." He's been moving toward the war, anyway, in the upcoming "Peaky Blinders" movie, but while you wait for that, you can get to know a new cast of characters in what looks like a British outpost in the Egyptian desert, as judged by the pyramids in the background. For "Rogue Heroes" (which will go by the title "Sas: Rogue Heroes" in the UK), Knight has enlisted director Tom Shankland and a cast that includes Connor Swindells ("Sex...
Knight is also known for his other collaborations with Tom Hardy — the one-man movie, "Locke," and the one-season show, "Taboo." He's been moving toward the war, anyway, in the upcoming "Peaky Blinders" movie, but while you wait for that, you can get to know a new cast of characters in what looks like a British outpost in the Egyptian desert, as judged by the pyramids in the background. For "Rogue Heroes" (which will go by the title "Sas: Rogue Heroes" in the UK), Knight has enlisted director Tom Shankland and a cast that includes Connor Swindells ("Sex...
- 10/4/2022
- by Joshua Meyer
- Slash Film
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