Is the ITV series The Ipcress File based on the movie?

ITV are getting ready to unleash their six-part series The Ipcress File.

The new spy drama starring Peaky Blinders' Joe Cole is an adaptation of Len Deighton’s 1962 novel - but this isn't the first time the iconic novel has been adapted.

Is the ITV series The Ipcress File based on the movie?

ITV's new series The Ipcress File is based on a spy novel of the same name, published in 1962 and written by Len Deighton.

The novel was turned into a BAFTA-award winning film adaptation in 1965, starring Michael Caine and produced by the James Bond co-producer Harry Saltzman.

In contrast with the book, the protagonist is named in the film, as in the novel the spy has no name.

However, in the 1965 film the character's name, Harry Palmer, was chosen by actor Michael.

It's not known if the ITV series will follow the same pattern as the film, but we do know the lead character will still go by Harry Palmer.

Will Michael Caine appear in the ITV series?

It doesn't look like Michael will be appearing in the 2022 series.

However, there is a nod to his original character from the 1965 film.

Actor Joe who plays Harry in the ITV series can be seen wearing the thick rimmed glasses made famous by Michael.

Speaking at a press event conference, director James Watkins confirmed that the opening shot of Harry Palmer's glasses in episode 1 was a deliberate nod to Michae.

"[It was a] little wink, yeah, and also the fact that when you cut to Joe [Cole], the gaze is out of focus and then it finds focus when he puts the glasses on. So we just wanted to sort of tip our hat to that. But then also to say, 'OK, now here it is. Harry Palmer is Joe Cole, here is a new iteration and enjoy this,'" he said.

Who is in the cast of The Ipcress File?

As mentioned Joe Cole of Peaky Blinders and Gangs of London fame plays the lead character of Harry Palmer.

Bohemian Rhapsody's Lucy Boynton will also feature in the drama as Jean Courtney, Harry's assistant and love interest.

Tom Hollander, known for his many major roles including The Night Manager, About Time and Pirates of the Caribbean to name a few, will play Major Dalby.

The cast list also includes Ashley Thomas as Maddox, Joshua James as Chico, David Dencik as Colonel Stok and  as Cathcart