> They’re not nearly as good as the actors in the film, and they’re used to a much lesser extent. (Seems a little mean but you did force me to spell it out.)
Factually incorrect on both counts and very unfair to an outstanding cast.
> The positive comments make me feel I do need to give the series another watch someday soon to understand where the fans are coming from. I think I had a much more positive view of Smiley’s People than some, which I’m curious about too...
Maybe a good idea to have a recent watch before criticising. Actually Smiley's people suffers from many of the flaws you've highlighted with a much weaker cast beyond Guinness.
> You’ve got me wishing it was filmic - unless I’m mistaken it’s 576i :(
Yes it was made for TV and made in 1979. As a result it is also utterly authentic.
I have many, many criticisms of the film which I'm not going to express because it may just be my taste and I'm glad that lots of people enjoyed it. I just don't want anyone to be put off seeking out the TV series because of an assessment that is so far out of the consensus.
Edit: for an independent view the LA Times gives a good assessment of both.
https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-xpm-2011-nov-27-la-...