London Spy

A gritty spooks drama in the John Le Carré mould
Ben-Felsenburg-colour-176Which of us doesn’t love a good spy story? There’s something so irresistible in the notion that all may not be what it seems in our often mundane lives, whether the tale be the superhero-like fantasy of James Bond, or the convincing realism pioneered by John Le Carré.

Ben Whishaw is the brilliant actor who for my money is one of the best things in the latest 007 flick Spectre as Q, playing the geeky gadget master with winning understated humour. Now he crosses over into the grittier genre in London Spy (Monday, BBC Two, 9pm). Written by Tom Rob Smith (author of the bestseller Child 44), this superb new drama fully warrants comparison with Le Carré. Danny (Whishaw) is a most contradictory young man, an innocent, romantic spirit who is also sexually very experienced and has already had more than his share of boyfriends.

His latest love is the Adonislike Alex (Edward Holcroft), who leads a precisely regimented life, has a genius brain for numbers, and says he works for an investment bank. With the series title, it’ll come as little surprise that Alex isn’t telling the truth about his job. The opening episode features some shocking moments, but stick with it and you’ll be utterly enthralled by the end. And look out for the wonderful Jim Broadbent as Alex’s world-weary pal Scottie.

I’ll be staggered if London Spy doesn’t walk away with a fistful of awards at the next Baftas.

NOT TO BE MISSED

tv-not-to-be-missed

Dames Of Classic Drama at the BBC, Sunday, BBC4, 8pm
Judi Dench, Diana Rigg and Maggie Smith are among the acting greats seen in their earliest roles.

The Shopper’s Guide To Saving Money, Monday, C4, 8.30pm
Pet insurance and printer ink for the thrifty: Dave Fishwick and Kate Quilton (above) hunt for bargains.

Masterchef: The Professionals, Tuesday, BBC2, 8pm
Six hopefuls brave the verdicts of Monica Galetti, Gregg Wallace and Marcus Wareing (above).