As a movie critic with a penchant for British espionage dramas and a soft spot for Gary Oldman‘s exceptional acting prowess, this latest collaboration between Oldman and MI5 is nothing short of delightful. The fusion of real-life espionage agency and Hollywood drama has created an intriguing blend that feels both authentic and entertaining.

Gary Oldman, known for his role as the gruff but talented spy chief Jackson Lamb in the popular Apple TV+ series “Slow Horses,” has been enlisted by the actual MI5 agency to perform a Christmas-themed poem.

Working together with the streaming service, the British intelligence agency has shared a holiday video on their Instagram account. In this video, Academy Award-winning actor Oldman provides a modern interpretation of the classic poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas” (often referred to as “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”) through narration.

Entitled “A MI5 Christmas Tale,” this video features agents busy at their computers within the walls of Thames House (contrary to the depiction in the TV show, which is set at Regent’s Park), with actor Gary Oldman narrating using his character, Jackson Lamb, from the series “Slow Horses.

On Christmas Eve night, Thames House was silent except for a computer mouse click, but soon footsteps echoed down the stairwells, screens flickered to life, and a hundred keyboard keys clattered in unison. Instead of the quiet peace usually associated with Christmas, there was a whirlwind of activity.

As you hurriedly tie up your holiday packages, the team behind the scenes at Thames is already preparing for their shift change. On behalf of everyone here, I’d like to extend warm wishes for a joyous celebration! May your Christmas be merry and bright, and may you enjoy peaceful nights filled with good cheer!

This holiday season, MI5 is opting for lamb instead of turkey – in honor of Jackson Lamb. Instead of his usual Slough House, we thought it was time for him to move to Thames House. While he was momentarily away from his Slow Horses, we asked him to record a special Christmas message for all of you. Our team will be working tirelessly during this festive period to ensure the U.K.’s safety from potential national security risks. Wishing everyone a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year from all of us at MI5.

As a movie enthusiast, I’ve been thoroughly captivated by “Slow Horses,” a standout series on Apple TV+. This gripping show has earned BAFTA and Emmy nominations, with its brilliant showrunner Will Smith recently taking home a win. The story is adapted from Mick Herron’s novels of the same name and revolves around a shabby spy named Lamb leading an eclectic group of misfit agents, all banished from MI5 headquarters and nicknamed the Slow Horses. Joining this talented cast are Kristin Scott Thomas, Jack Lowden, and Christopher Chung.

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2024-12-26 14:46