Matt Smith’s “compelling” thriller that “pushes all the right buttons” gets new UK streaming home

by

You can now watch a thrilling new movie with Matt Smith, Keira Knightley, and Ralph Fiennes on BBC iPlayer – and it’s completely free! It’s being described as both fast-paced and bold.

The 2019 film Official Secrets recounts the true story of Katharine Gun, a British intelligence officer (played by Keira Knightley), and unfolds in 2003, just before the start of the Iraq War.

She received a memo from the National Security Agency revealing that the United States was asking the United Kingdom to gather sensitive information about members of the UN Security Council. The goal was to pressure them into supporting the planned invasion of Iraq.

What to Read Next

Incensed by the actions of both her government and the US, Gun leaks the memo to the press.

This film is inspired by the true story of Katharine Gun, a whistleblower who shared confidential information with a friend. That friend then passed it on to The Observer newspaper.

Gavin Hood directed Official Secrets, which stars Matthew Goode, Adam Bakri, and Indira Varma.

If you weren’t able to watch the movie when it was shown on BBC Two Monday night, you can now watch it anytime on BBC iPlayer without any additional charge.

The film has received a strong 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics agree that while Official Secrets follows a predictable plot and delivers a clear, important message, it’s elevated by Keira Knightley’s compelling performance.

In a review, Observer noted that despite any shortcomings, Official Secrets powerfully illustrates how intensely the government pursued Katharine Gun, who risked everything by exposing a secret memo. The film highlights the stark contrast between official politeness and the government’s ruthless determination to silence her.

Critics widely applauded Keira Knightley’s performance. Sight & Sound magazine noted that she powerfully carries the film, embodying her character with a strikingly focused and austere presence, particularly highlighted by the film’s dark and somber setting at GCHQ.

Refinery29 called the film Official Secrets captivating, and Screen International praised it as skillfully made and effective.

According to Empire Magazine, Official Secrets is a relevant and sweeping film that tackles a difficult topic, but it’s still captivating and enjoyable, largely thanks to a strong performance by Keira Knightley.

Keira Knightley discussed with The Guardian how she researched the real-life person who inspired her character, spending time learning about them to prepare for the role.

“I had lunch with her, and she came to the set once. I really liked her,” she began.

The director, Gavin Hood, didn’t want me to try and become the character. It was difficult because I don’t physically resemble her, and she has a unique accent from growing up in Taiwan. I was eager to attempt the accent, but Gavin didn’t allow it.

I’m not a reporter, so this was the first time I’d ever questioned someone who had a legal right to remain silent. What’s truly remarkable about Katharine is how straightforward and unwavering her perspective is.

She explained that when portraying the character, it was essential to show the story from her perspective. The entire narrative is seen through her eyes.

Official Secrets is streaming now on BBC iPlayer

The latest issue of Living Legends is now available! You can purchase Ariana & Witches at newsagents or online for only £8.99.

Read More

2025-11-25 03:21