Gary Oldman has had a long and prolific film career. Whether he's playing Sirius Black in Harry Potter, Jim Gordon in The Dark Knight (upcoming The Dark Knight Rises), or the devious villain in Air Force One, he always creates a strong character. Unfortunately, the Character Approved actor rarely has the opportunity to play the leading man we know he is.

In Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, a film based on the novel by John le Carré, Oldman finally gets to flex his acting muscles in a lead role worthy of his talent. Oldman stars as George Smiley, a retired MI6 agent living during the Cold War. When rumors of a Soviet mole surface, Smiley is forced out of retirement to find the traitor. It's one of those Godfather III moments: "Every time I try to get out, they pull me back in."

Oldman wears the burden of Smiley's position in every scene. Smiley once sat at the table with everyone in MI6. They celebrated holidays together. Yet, it is just that betrayal that makes the wound worse.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy doesn't go for any massive action sequences. Instead, it focuses primarily on the underpinning relationships between Smiley and his former colleagues. As he conducts investigations, you see buried emotions erupt in the smallest of movements.

This film is about creating a gradual, emotional build up, and that is where Oldman thrives. Moment by moment he unravels the fear, distrust, and failings of an organization that has lost its way. This is Oldman at his best and a terrific watch to boot.

[Image: Focus Features]