The Last Spy Review: Former CIA Station Chief's Unvarnished Account
Katharina Otto-Bernstein's documentary, The Last Spy, presents a meticulously crafted tribute to retired spymaster Peter Sichel. This German Jewish survivor of the Holocaust, who joined the United States' first espionage bureau, the OSS, before rising to become a chief in pivotal CIA stations post-war, offers a rare insider perspective. At the remarkable age of 100, Sichel remains sharp and reflective, sharing his middle-of-the-action experiences during the Cold War era.
Scrupulous Assembly and Historical Context
The film is straightforward and scrupulously assembled, blending Sichel's candid on-camera reflections with archive footage and supplementary talking-head interviews. Director Otto-Bernstein asks perceptive questions off-camera, primarily focusing on eliciting anecdotes from Sichel and filling historical gaps. The documentary features insights from various former CIA operatives and journalists, including author Scott Anderson, journalist Carl Bernstein, and John Hadden, son of a CIA man.
These contributors provide background on the subterranean politicking between CIA chief Allen Dulles and his brother, Secretary of State John Foster Dulles, during the Eisenhower administration. Sichel does not shy away from criticism, openly questioning certain CIA operations, such as plots to destabilise leftist regimes like that of Jacobo Árbenz in Guatemala.
Personal Insights and Family Reflections
Beyond the political intrigue, the documentary delves into the personal toll of Sichel's career. His daughters and wife reflect on the strain his espionage work placed on family life, though they speak fondly of him as a benign paterfamilias. The most compelling moments come from Sichel himself, particularly when he recounts his arduous teenage escape from France before the Nazi invasion, guiding his distraught father to find his mother and sister.
He also vividly describes the epic levels of alcoholism in Washington circles, painting a picture of outward repression and inner libidinousness fueled by boozy lunches and constant smoking—a world reminiscent of a mashup between Mad Men and John Le Carré novels. While some tea is spilled along the way, Sichel avoids revealing state secrets that might cause trouble, maintaining a balance between revelation and discretion.
Release and Significance
The Last Spy is set for release in UK cinemas and on digital platforms from 24 April. This documentary not only honours Sichel's legacy but also provides a nuanced, revealing look at the secret service and Washington's inner circles, making it a must-watch for history buffs and espionage enthusiasts alike.
