Directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, Secret Agent is a gripping British spy thriller based on W. Somerset Maugham’s stories about espionage. Released in 1936, this film blends suspense, deception, romance, and moral conflict — all hallmarks of Hitchcock’s early work.
🌍 Plot Summary
Set during the First World War, Secret Agent follows British author and army captain Edgar Brodie (played by John Gielgud), who is reported dead and given a new identity as Richard Ashenden. He is secretly recruited by British Intelligence to track down and eliminate a German agent operating in neutral Switzerland.
Upon arrival in Geneva, he is partnered with the mysterious and seductive Elsa Carrington (played by Madeleine Carroll), who is also acting under a false identity as his wife. Their alliance is complicated by the presence of Robert Marvin, a romantic rival who is unaware of their true identities.
They are joined by the flamboyant and cold-blooded assassin known only as The General (portrayed by Peter Lorre in a memorable role), who brings unpredictable violence and black humor to the mission.
As Ashenden grows more disillusioned with the ethics of espionage and his feelings for Elsa deepen, the team misidentifies their target, leading to a fatal mistake. Wracked with guilt and seeking redemption, Ashenden must make a fateful decision that will define his mission — and his soul.
