Watch Reilly, Ace of Spies

Reilly, Ace of Spies is a British television show first aired in 1983. It is based on the book "Ace of Spies" by Robin Bruce Lockhart, and tells the true story of Sidney Reilly, who was a spy during the early 20th century. The show stars Sam Neill as Sidney Reilly, Michael Bryant as Sir Basil Thomson, and Leo McKern as Zaharov.

The show depicts the life and adventures of Sidney Reilly, a Russian born British spy who lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Reilly was a complex character, full of charm and wit, and was known for his daring and cunning intelligence. He worked for the British government during World War I, undertaking dangerous missions behind enemy lines.

The show is set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world, with the rise of the Bolsheviks in Russia, the outbreak of World War I, and the decline of the British Empire. The cinematography is beautiful and sets the tone for the show. The costumes and sets are also carefully crafted, and help transport the viewer into the world of the early 20th century.

The story is told in a series of episodic adventures that span the entire run of the show. Each episode is self-contained, but there is an overarching narrative that connects all of them. Reilly's adventures take him from Scotland to Russia, Germany, France, England, and New York, and he crosses paths with many famous historical figures, such as Lenin, Trotsky, Winston Churchill, and the British aristocracy.

Sam Neill, who plays Sidney Reilly, is brilliant in the role. He is charismatic and charming, but also has a darker side. He is a man who is always looking for the next adventure, and is willing to do whatever it takes to complete his mission. Michael Bryant, who plays Sir Basil Thomson, is also excellent. He is the head of the British Secret Service, and is often at odds with Reilly's unorthodox methods. Leo McKern, who plays Zaharov, is also a standout, playing a villainous character who is always one step ahead of Reilly.

One of the strengths of the show is its attention to historical detail. The show takes great care to accurately portray historic events, and to show their impact on the lives of ordinary people. The show also shines a light on the role of espionage during the early 20th century, and on the often hidden world of spies and secret agents.

Overall, Reilly, Ace of Spies is an engaging and well-crafted show that is sure to appeal to fans of spy dramas and historical dramas. The show's attention to detail, strong performances, and engrossing story make it a standout in the genre, and a must-watch for anyone interested in the early 20th century.

Reilly, Ace of Spies is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between and on Acorn TV