The name John Le Carre has a whole new relevance thanks to the recent adaptation of his acclaimed novel, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and the promise of more subdued, Cold War era films to come. The 80 year old writer is still active, however, and continues to produce thrilling espionage novels every few years. One of his most recent efforts, A Most Wanted Man, is now headed to the big screen directed by Anton Corbijn(The American), and has found one it's principle stars.
Philip Seymour Hoffman will take on one of the film's lead roles, although if you're expecting this to be another slow burn paranoia fest like Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, you might be disappointed. The contemporary story deals in some extent to the current "war on terror", specifically the extreme policies put in play by the Bush Administration. A starved, destitute Russian man is smuggled into Hamburg under the cover of night, carrying an insane amount of cash and telling an intriguing tale that may or may not be true. He comes under the care of an idealistic young German lawyer and a British banker who attempt to save him from extraordinary rendition.
Anyone who saw the contemplative yet thrilling assassin flick, The American, recognizes that Corbijn is a perfect fit for Le Carre's style, and with Hoffman playing a role I can't wait to see how the rest shapes up. No word on when filming will begin but hopefully we'll see it some time in 2013. [Screen Daily]
