The Spy

I really appreciate this series because it introduced me to Agent 88, Eli Cohen, who made such a mockery out of the Syrians that I couldn't believe that something like that could happen in real life. So, I googled Eli and it’s all there!! This work was incredibly tragicomic for me from beginning to end. Agent 88 – if I used such a nickname in an online discussion about refugees, I would be banned for life. I found the code name itself hilarious (diehard Nazis would be grinding their teeth if they even managed to watch this series about a heroic Shemite). His extraordinary audacity and self-confidence really blew my mind. It was funny that Sacha Baron was cast in the role of Cohen, ‘nomen est omen’ as they say. I must admit that the part suited him well. It was the first time I saw him in a serious role and he really pulled it off. (24.11.2019)

I take the opening episode as a traditional introduction, and as such, it definitely worked. Because I had no idea what I was getting into, I appreciated that the creators quickly put me in the right framework, showed me who is who, and nicely transported me back in time. (23.11.2019)

After the first episode, I found myself diving into Google because I had zero clue about the spy Elias Kohn. Now that I'm up to speed, I applaud the creators for their commitment to accuracy in depicting real events. However, that action scene? Totally unnecessary. Could've done without it and still enjoyed the story just as much. (23.11.2019)

The third episode hit a sweet spot for me - no unnecessary action scenes, yet it was the most enjoyable one yet. It feels like our main character was born for espionage, based on what we've learned about them. I appreciate that the creators are keeping things grounded in reality for the most part. And when they do take a little creative liberty, it doesn't bother me one bit. (23.11.2019)

The fourth episode went a bit off the rails with those over-the-top action scenes that didn't quite match the realistic vibe. But you know what? I let it slide because I was having such a blast throughout. Plus, it seems even the Israelis themselves got caught up in the blur between reality and myth. (23.11.2019)

This episode had a solid vibe to it, giving off that quality atmosphere that keeps you hooked. It's kind of mind-boggling how a spy can still pull off success despite making so many mistakes. But hey, what can I say? It was a blast watching it. (24.11.2019)

The finale did touch on espionage, but the creators rather focused on the consequences of sending agent 88 to Syria. Israel clearly benefited from his operations, and the consequences for Eli's family and himself were accepted as losses from the beginning, just like anywhere else. I just think that the creators could have spared the explanations about the cedars that Eli may or may not have had something to do with. (24.11.2019)