Spooks - Series 1

For the past few weeks I’ve been catching episodes of this BBC spy series about MI5 agents, called “Spooks,” which premiered in the U.K. back in 2002. In the first season we’re treated with anti-abortion terrorism, race-hate violence, human trafficking, Kurdish activism, a heist at MI5’s private bank, anti-globalization riots, anarchist agitation, bickering with MI6, double dealings by double agents, illegal arms deals, an attempt to overthrow the government, pompous Christian evangelism, and an IRA bombing. What gives the show psychological depth are the characters who try hard to keep their private lives entirely separate from their work as spies, struggling to keep the lies apart that they tell their loved ones. The main character Tom Quinn, who in his private life goes by the name of Matthew, has fallen in love with Ellie. Naturally, when he finally has the guts to tell her he is a spy, her world falls apart and she has no idea if she can ever trust him again. I also enjoy how the plots delve deep inside modern society’s ills and the individual psyche’s of criminals and psychopaths from which the spooks are hoping to save society Then there’s the dry sense of humor: “You’re a little shyte, Derrick. Have I ever told you that?” this MI5 bossman asks a government suit. “You’ve implied enough times, Harry. Take a chill pill,” the suit replies – all with the most civilized stiff upper lip! Nice series, try finding it yourself and see if you like it too.