Prize #3: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
I recently saw a sneak preview of the new Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. The director and Gary Oldman were there for a Q&A afterwards, and it was interesting to hear their perspective on making this new film based on John Le Carre's classic novel. One amusing anecdote was that Oldman deliberated at length over which glasses to use for the role. He narrowed down his search once he found a vintage eyeglass specialist in Pasadena. So much of the film deals with his character's ability to make observations and to analyze the minutia- without projecting his own interior thoughts and emotions. In a film where visibility becomes theme, there are some beautifully shot moments that use the transparent and reflective nature of eyeglasses to echo what is happening in the narrative.
I was welcomed into the theater by a stylish usher who greeted me with, "For your consideration," as she handed me a film brochure. As I looked for a seat, I noted that most of the room was reserved for members of the Academy. The brochure is a well-designed piece that is broken down into various sections to celebrate and explain the various elements of the complicated espionage plot. I have two brochures to give away to Spy Vibers as today's holiday prize.
