Double agents are the epitome of intrigue and betrayal in the spy genre. These films delve into the complex lives of individuals who navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty, deceit, and survival. This curated list offers a thrilling exploration of espionage, perfect for fans of suspense, plot twists, and the moral ambiguity of spycraft.

The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (1965)
Description: Based on le Carré's novel, this film showcases the disillusionment of a British agent who becomes involved in a complex operation involving a double agent.
Fact: Richard Burton's performance was critically acclaimed, and the film is often cited as one of the best spy films ever made.


The Tailor of Panama (2001)
Description: A British spy recruits a tailor in Panama to spy on his country, leading to a web of deceit and double-crossing.
Fact: The film is based on John le Carré's novel, with Pierce Brosnan playing the spy.


The Bourne Identity (2002)
Description: Jason Bourne, an amnesiac, discovers he's a trained assassin and must evade capture while piecing together his identity, which includes elements of being a double agent.
Fact: The film was adapted from Robert Ludlum's novel, but the screenplay significantly deviates from the book.


The Good Shepherd (2006)
Description: This film traces the early history of the CIA through the eyes of Edward Wilson, who becomes entangled in a web of espionage, including dealing with double agents.
Fact: Robert De Niro directed this film, which was his second directorial effort.


Breach (2007)
Description: This film is based on the true story of FBI agent Robert Hanssen, who was convicted of spying for the Soviet Union and Russia. It explores the dynamics of trust and betrayal.
Fact: Chris Cooper's portrayal of Hanssen was praised for its depth and authenticity.


The Departed (2006)
Description: In this modern classic, a young cop infiltrates the Irish mob, while a mole within the police department feeds information back to the criminals. The tension of who is the real double agent keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Best Director Oscar for this film. It's a remake of the Hong Kong film "Infernal Affairs."


Salt (2010)
Description: Angelina Jolie stars as Evelyn Salt, a CIA agent accused of being a Russian sleeper agent. The film explores her journey to prove her innocence or reveal her true allegiance.
Fact: The role of Evelyn Salt was originally written for a male character, but was rewritten for Jolie.


Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
Description: This film follows George Smiley, a retired spy, as he uncovers a Soviet mole within the British Secret Intelligence Service. The intricate plot and the portrayal of double agents make it a quintessential entry in this list.
Fact: The film was adapted from John le Carré's novel of the same name. Gary Oldman's performance as Smiley earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.


The Double (2011)
Description: A retired CIA operative is paired with a young FBI agent to track down a mole in their midst, leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse.
Fact: The film stars Richard Gere and Topher Grace, with Gere playing the seasoned spy.


The East (2013)
Description: An operative from a private intelligence firm goes undercover to infiltrate an eco-terrorist group, only to find her loyalties tested.
Fact: Brit Marling, who co-wrote and stars in the film, was inspired by real-life stories of undercover agents infiltrating activist groups.
