The transition from stonking hit BBC TV series to feature film is deftly handled with Spooks, meaning the uninitiated can still enjoy full disclosure.

Disappointingly, however, it’s rather like an extended episode, with insufficient oomph to wholly justify the upgrade. Amongst an impressive cast, Harry Pearce (the wonderful Peter Firth) is the lynchpin between series and feature, as the story focuses on his suspicious abscondment.

The otherwise engaging plot’s premise suffers from a comparison to Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy, as well as a copy/paste backstory between Pearce and young ex-agent Will Holloway (an earnest Kit Harington).

Spooks’ pre-exisiting excellence hinders the film somewhat as it struggles to make a cinematic splash;  worth watching if you’re already a fan, or appreciate fast-paced shenanigans and explosions around London.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Peter Firth, Kit Harington, Jennifer Ehle, Tuppence Middleton, Elyes Gabel, Tim McInnerny, David Harewood

DIRECTOR: Bharat Nalluri

WRITERS: Jonathan Brackley and Sam Vincent (screenplay), David Wolstencroft (created by)

SYNOPSIS: To prevent an imminent terrorist attack on London, decommissioned officer Will Holloway (Harington) must track down disgraced MI5 Intelligence Chief Harry Pearce (Firth).

A preview screening of Spooks: The Greater Good was kindly provided by 20th Century Fox and Grapevine PR.