The Ipcress File

BBC2

2.05PM - 3.50PM ★★★★ SPY THRILLER With the world already hooked on the exploits of

James Bond, author Len Deighton presented a very different picture of the British secret service in the shape of the shabby, bespectacled Harry Palmer.

This first screen adventure for Palmer helped cement Michael Caine’s status as a genuine international superstar, and his deadpan verbal sparring with his superiors is the highlight of a tale of brainwashing and international treachery. Dir: Sidney J Furie 1965, PG SEX ) VIOLENCE ) LANGUAGE )