The Ipcress File (1965)

It's the height of the Cold War and a reluctant secret agent (Michael Caine) is assigned to find the man (Frank Gatliff) considered responsible for the kidnapping of the country's leading scientists. They return but are brainwashed and useless. Based on the novel by Len Deighton and directed by Sidney J. Furie (LADY SINGS THE BLUES). Considered the antithesis of the international spy capers as personified by the Bond films. There are no exotic locales, no big action set pieces and the protagonist is a myopic spy who wears glasses and likes to cook gourmet meals! It's not even a colorful movie, the film's tones are dingy browns and greens. Yet the minutiae of the realistic daily life of a government agent is a refreshing contrast to the more glamorous spy thrillers. Even the film's nominal "femme fatale" as played by Sue Lloyd is a no nonsense career agent. This was Michael Caine's breakthrough role though some might give ALFIE that honor. He holds the screen like a true star and it was obvious this actor was the real thing. Two sequels followed (FUNERAL IN BERLIN, BILLION DOLLAR BRAIN) but this remains the best of the trio. With Nigel Green, Guy Doleman and Gordon Jackson.