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Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy adaptations: books & films
Every version of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy — the books & films, compared across media.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy centres on George Smiley and his hunt for a double agent embedded at the highest levels of British Intelligence. The story has taken shape across two media: John le Carré's 1974 novel, which established the premise, and the 2011 film, which brought Smiley out of retirement to pursue the same mission inside an institution riddled with treachery.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy films
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy books
Frequently asked
Is Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy based on a book?
Yes. The 2011 film is an adaptation of John le Carré's 1974 novel Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, which follows George Smiley's mission to identify a double agent at the top of British Intelligence.
How many versions of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy are there?
There are two versions covered here: the original 1974 novel and the 2011 theatrical film, both centred on George Smiley and the hunt for a mole inside the Circus.
Should I read the book or watch the film first?
Either works as a starting point. The 1974 novel is the source; the 2011 film adapts the same story for the screen with Smiley at its centre.