Watch The Human Factor

The Human Factor is a dramatic thriller film from 1975, directed by Edward Dmytryk and starring George Kennedy, John Mills, and Raf Vallone. The movie follows a group of British intelligence agents who work together to prevent a communist plot to steal a top-secret decoding device. The film is based on the novel by Graham Greene and explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, espionage, and politics during the Cold War.

The story begins with a prologue set during the Second World War, where the protagonist, MI6 agent Castle (George Kennedy), is captured by the Germans and tortured for information. He manages to endure the torture and escape, but his loyalty to the British government is called into question. Years later, Castle is living in South Africa with his family when he is contacted by a former colleague, Harris (John Mills), who convinces him to come back to London to help with an important mission.

It turns out that the Soviets have targeted a British spy agency and are planning to infiltrate it and steal a vital code-breaking machine. Castle agrees to help, but he is torn between his loyalty to his country and his desire to protect his family from harm. He is also haunted by memories of his torture during the war and struggles to trust anyone.

As the mission unfolds, Castle finds himself working closely with Harris and the Italian agent Giuseppe (Raf Vallone) to uncover a web of deception and betrayal. The three men must navigate a complex political landscape where not everyone is what they seem. They encounter double agents, assassins, and dangerous criminals, all while trying to stop the Soviet plot before it's too late.

Throughout the film, the tension is palpable as the stakes get higher and the danger increases. The characters' motivations and loyalties are constantly in question, adding to the sense of unease. The performances by the three leading actors are strong, with Kennedy delivering a particularly nuanced portrayal of a man torn between his duty and his conscience. Mills and Vallone also shine in their roles, bringing depth and complexity to their characters.

In addition to the gripping plot and strong performances, The Human Factor is notable for its visuals. The film is shot in a stylish, noir-inspired style that adds to the sense of intrigue and danger. The use of shadow and light, as well as the use of close-ups and framing, creates a moody and atmospheric feel that is perfect for this kind of thriller.

Overall, The Human Factor is a taut and engaging thriller that explores complex political and personal themes. The performances are strong, the visuals are striking, and the tension is high throughout. It is a must-watch for fans of the genre and anyone interested in the politics and espionage of the Cold War era.

The Human Factor is a 1976 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.