The Ipcress File (1965)

The Ipcress File (1965), a British spy film directed by Sidney J. Furie and starring Michael Caine, is based on Len Deighton’s novel of the same name (1962). It received a BAFTA award for Best British film. A scientist named Radcliffe is taken from a train as his security escort is killed. Harry Palmer, a former British Army sergeant with a rebellious history and criminal background, currently works for the Ministry of Defence. His superior Colonel Ross summons him and assigns him to Major Dalby’s department. Ross suspects Radcliffe’s kidnapping may be linked to the sudden resignation of sixteen other top British scientists. He warns Dalby that their group will be disbanded if Radcliffe is not found. Palmer is then brought in as a replacement for the deceased security detail.

Following their meeting, Dalby informs his agents that Eric Grantby and his chief of staff, known as ‘Housemartin’, are the primary suspects. He tasks the team with tracking down their current whereabouts. Jock Carswell becomes acquainted with Palmer and they strike up a friendship. With the help of a contact at Scotland Yard, Palmer locates Grantby. However, when he attempts to apprehend him, Housemartin attacks him. Despite later being arrested, Housemartin is unexpectedly killed by individuals posing as Palmer and Carswell before he can be interrogated. Believing Radcliffe may be held captive in an abandoned factory, Palmer leads a search but only finds a piece of audiotape labeled “IPCRESS” that produces unintelligible noise when played.