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The Secret Agent poster
5.6 / 10(47 votes)IMDbR19961h 35mUnited Kingdom

The Secret Agent

“In Victorian London, a city of spies, one woman is about to be caught in a web of conspiracy and only one man has the power to protect her.”

Synopsis

In 1880s London, pornographic bookseller Verloc is a double agent for the Russian government, providing information to Chief Inspector Heat about a lazy anarchist organization. In order for the anarchists to be arrested, an act of terrorism must occur. So Verloc decides to set up bombs – which leads to tragedy – not only for himself but also for his family, including wife Winnie and brother-in-law, Stevie.

Release History & Theatrical Window

Theatrical Premiere

November 8, 1996

Wide Cinema Exhibition

Key Information & Fast Facts

Director
Christopher Hampton
Screenplay & Story
Christopher Hampton, Joseph Conrad
Original Score
Philip Glass
Original Title
The Secret Agent
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Spoken Languages
English
Runtime
1h 35m
Production Studios
Capitol Films, World Film Music Limited, Fox Searchlight Pictures

Creative Leadership & Key Crew

Director

Christopher Hampton

Screenplay & Story

Christopher Hampton, Joseph Conrad

Original Score & Music

Philip Glass

Director of Photography

Denis Lenoir

Film Editing

George Akers

Producers

Norma Heyman, Bob Hoskins

Literary Origin & Source Material
Novel:Joseph Conrad

Department Leadership Roster

Christopher Hampton

Christopher Hampton

Director

Christopher Hampton

Christopher Hampton

Writer

Norma Heyman

Producer

Philip Glass

Philip Glass

Original Music Composer

Denis Lenoir

Director of Photography

George Akers

Editor

Caroline Amies

Production Design

Anushia Nieradzik

Costume Design

Age Classification & Content Advisories

Official viewer rating standards and content warnings across international classification boards.

Primary: R

R: Restricted — Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

International Certification Matrix

Germany (FSK)12

FSK 12 — Restricted to viewers aged 12 and older.

United States (MPAA)R

Restricted — Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.

Official cinematic photography and background stills for The Secret Agent.

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Frequently Asked Questions About The Secret Agent

Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.

What is The Secret Agent about?

In 1880s London, pornographic bookseller Verloc is a double agent for the Russian government, providing information to Chief Inspector Heat about a lazy anarchist organization. In order for the anarchists to be arrested, an act of terrorism must occur. So Verloc decides to set up bombs – which leads to tragedy – not only for himself but also for his family, including wife Winnie and brother-in-law, Stevie.

Who directed The Secret Agent?

The Secret Agent was directed by Christopher Hampton.

Who stars in The Secret Agent?

The principal cast of The Secret Agent includes Bob Hoskins, Patricia Arquette, Jim Broadbent, Christian Bale, Gérard Depardieu.

When was The Secret Agent released and how long is it?

The Secret Agent was released in 1996 with a total runtime of 1h 35m.

Who composed the musical score for The Secret Agent?

The original motion picture soundtrack for The Secret Agent was composed by Philip Glass.

Is The Secret Agent based on a book or true story?

The Secret Agent is adapted from the following source material: Novel: "Joseph Conrad".

What is the age rating and content advisory for The Secret Agent?

The Secret Agent holds official age classifications: DE: 12 (FSK 12 — Restricted to viewers aged 12 and older.); US: R (Restricted — Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.).