Liverpool Film Office fires fourth investment in new HETV adaptation of iconic espionage thriller, The Ipcress File

The Ipcress File, featuring the iconic British spy, Harry Palmer, once made famous by Michael Caine, is getting a six-part high-end TV adaptation for ITV, with Joe Cole (Peaky Blinders, Gangs of London) taking on the mantle.

Following on the heels of Sky Atlantic’s premier of the Tim Roth-thriller, Tin Star: Liverpool, the stars and high-octane action are set to return to the streets of Liverpool in 2021, as Altitude Television recreate a stylish 60s London and Berlin, in Liverpool City Region.

As the fourth investment from Liverpool Film Office’s LCR Production Fund, using funding from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Strategic Investment Fund, The Ipcress File marks the Film Office’s support in all three of the UK’s main broadcasters, following support announced for BBC’s Time and Channel 4’s Help (w/t).

The casting of Joe Cole marks his return to Liverpool following his starring role on Peaky Blinders, with Lucy Boynton and Tom Hollander also joining the cast.

The adaptation by Oscar nominated and BAFTA award-winning screenwriter, John Hodge, cues a new take on the globally renowned Len Deighton novel, as the series targets a modern, global audience.

The Ipcress File being the first in a series of books featuring the intriguing Harry Palmer, it has the potential for sequels.

Directed by Emmy award-winner James Watkins (McMafia, Black Mirror, The Woman In Black), produced by Paul Ritchie (McMafia, Slumdog Millionaire) The Ipcress File will be executive produced by Will Clarke (Filth) and Andy Mayson (Ghost Stories) for Altitude Television, Sandy Lieberson (Performance), Andrew Eaton (The Crown) for Trademark, James Watkins, and Hilary and Steven Saltzman.