The Ipcress File viewers were won over by Joe Cole’s performance in the first episode, with many weighing it up against Sir Michael Caine’s famous role.
The ITV spy thriller premiered on Sunday night following British army sergeant Harry Palmer (Cole) who is imprisoned for doing shady deals in Berlin during the Cold War. He’s soon offered the chance to work for British intelligence, however, as an alternative to serving his prison sentence.
Cole co-stars alongside Bohemian Rhapsody actress Lucy Boynton and Pride & Prejudice actor Tom Hollander.
Following episode one, viewers shared their verdict on Peaky Blinders star Cole, who takes on the role made famous by Sir Michael in the 1965 movie version, which was also based on the book by Len Deighton.
One viewer tweeted: ‘Well i bloody loved that Joe Cole supremely cast as #HarryPalmer made the role his own with a few nods to Michael Caine & Tom Hollander is brilliant as always & looks like @ITV gave it a healthy budget its filmed beautifully.’
Agreeing with their sentiments, another added: ‘Yep – I think there are plenty of positives to take away from that first episode. While there are some embellishments and departures, it seems relatively faithful to the spirit of the original book. And Joe Cole is a good #harrypalmer.’
One viewer weighed in: ‘Been watching #TheIpcressFile on ITV. Being a massive fan of Michael Caine’s portrayal on the 1965 film I was pleasantly surprised by Joe Cole’s interpretation of the role…a homage yes but a copycat no. Rest of cast and new music good too but it’s up against Peaky Blinders!’
‘Well, I’m loving this. Joe Cole isn’t trying to be Michael Caine and I’m loving this version of Harry, too,’ one other cheered on.
Many also loved the series being filmed on a slant camera angle, in a nod to the 1960s filming style, while others joked it made them feel ‘drunk’.
The Ipcress File continues next Sunday at 9pm on ITV.
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