Game, Set, and Match

I agree with everyone who says that this series was the best of the 'spy' genre. My husband and I were captivated by it when it first aired in the US and watched every episode. I tried at that time to purchase the series (I did tape all of it) but was told by WGBH that it was not available. I even considered writing to Ian Holm to see if he might have a copy! Like others, I purchased and read the Deighton series (in part to understand the complicated plot.) If the original version ever comes available on DVD, I'll be among the first in line to snap up a copy. Ian Holm's portrayal of the vulnerable but courageous Bernard Samson was amazing. (He is always amazing.)

An excellent series, masterfully acted and directed, but unloved (I am told) by Mr Deighton and withdrawn by him after a single presentation. It is now only viewable in private collections, and via the British Film Institute at special request. Very unfortunate, as Ian Holm's nuanced portrayal of the weary-but-determined Bernard Samson is superb; one of his very best performances. The supporting cast, including the young Amanda Donohoe and Hugh Fraser, are superb. With Mel Martin playing the conflicted and traitorous wife, and Michael Degen as the mercurial Werner, the story positively simmers with the tragic and fateful personal consequences of the great game.

For those who love the spy movie this is a joy. Settle down for two or three evenings viewing and follow the detailed and fascinating plot. Watch this alongside so many current movies which treat the viewer as incapable of following anything that is not a simple tale. If there is anyone out there who has the means of arranging the series to DVD PLEASE DO, it would be a real thrill for many fans

I have a friend who has all 7 DVDs of it. It was made in Australia from Tapes of the series. I understand it took many months to compile it all But I saw it and it was great. So nice to see it after so many Years. They did change the plot - that's why Deighten was so unhappy with it, Even though it was beautifully done. Ian Holm was born to play Bernard Sampson I don't know if there's any interest in obtaining the DVDs but they do exist Something this good just can't disappear. Call me sentimental-I miss the cold war Simply because I love the books. So, if anyone is interested in getting a copy let me know and I'll Forward request to my friend. He doesn't want to do anything illegal, He just loves Deighten

This made for television movie, based on the three books Game, Set, Match, by Len Deighton, is one of the best spy dramas ever produced. Ian Holm is brilliant in his portrayal of the stoic but cunning Bernard Samson. If you are a Deighton fan, as well you should be, this is certainly the best adaptation of his work ever to appear in this media since Michael Caine starred in The Ipcress File and Funeral In Berlin. If you like spy thrillers, this a collector's item. It is certainly on par with "Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy" and one can only hope that it will be made available on DVD. I'll keep my fingers crossed that such wisdom will strike those who own the copyright!