Monday, March 22, 2021

Master Spy (1963)

A modest but intelligent spy drama. Distinguished physicist Turganev (Stephen Murray) demands political asylum at London Airport. The British agree and send him to a secure facility to continue his work. Turganev is assigned Leila (June Thorburn) as his assistant, at first he doesn't want her around but soon they forge a good relationship, Leila's chap Richard (John Carson) starts to get jealous.

However, there is more to Turganev than meets the eye. He likes to play chess with Skelton (Alan Wheatley), who is really his spy contact. Indeed, Turganev didn't defect after all and is really a spy sending secret information back to his homeland. When Leila discovers the plot, she is put into danger. Luckily Richard and the chap from MI5 save the day... However, there is a rather enjoyable twist at the end.

A highly enjoyable film that is well plotted and makes the most of a small budget with some good performance from a solid cast.