35 Facts About Slow Horses

What is "Slow Horses"?

"Slow Horses" is a British espionage television series based on the "Slough House" novels by Mick Herron. The show follows a group of disgraced MI5 agents who have been relegated to a dead-end department called Slough House. Despite their fall from grace, these agents often find themselves embroiled in high-stakes espionage.

1. The series is based on the "Slough House" novels by Mick Herron.
2. The first book in the series, "Slow Horses," was published in 2010.
3. The show premiered on Apple TV+ in April 2022.
4. Gary Oldman stars as Jackson Lamb, the head of Slough House.
5. The series has received critical acclaim for its writing and performances.

The Characters of "Slow Horses"

The characters in "Slow Horses" are a diverse group of misfits, each with their own unique backstory and set of skills. Despite their differences, they must work together to navigate the dangerous world of espionage.

6. Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman, is a grizzled and cynical MI5 agent.
7. River Cartwright, portrayed by Jack Lowden, is a young agent trying to redeem himself.
8. Sidonie "Sid" Baker, played by Olivia Cooke, is a talented but troubled agent.
9. Catherine Standish, portrayed by Saskia Reeves, is a recovering alcoholic with a dark past.
10. Roddy Ho, played by Christopher Chung, is a tech-savvy agent with a big ego.

The Setting of "Slow Horses"

The setting of "Slow Horses" plays a crucial role in the series, providing a gritty and realistic backdrop for the story. Slough House, the department where the agents work, is a far cry from the glamorous world of high-stakes espionage.

11. Slough House is a run-down office building in London.
12. The building is described as having peeling paint and broken furniture.
13. The agents often refer to Slough House as "the dumping ground."
14. The setting reflects the agents' fall from grace within MI5.
15. Despite its shabby appearance, Slough House is a hub of intelligence activity.

The Themes of "Slow Horses"

"Slow Horses" explores a variety of themes, from redemption and loyalty to the moral complexities of espionage. These themes add depth to the story and make the series more than just a typical spy thriller.

16. Redemption is a key theme, as the agents seek to prove their worth.
17. Loyalty is tested as the agents navigate the treacherous world of espionage.
18. The series explores the moral ambiguities of intelligence work.
19. The characters often grapple with their own personal demons.
20. The show highlights the importance of teamwork and trust.

Behind the Scenes of "Slow Horses"

The production of "Slow Horses" involves a talented team of writers, directors, and actors who bring the story to life. Their hard work and dedication are evident in the show's high quality.

21. The series is produced by See-Saw Films and adapted by Will Smith (not the actor).
22. James Hawes directed the first season of the show.
23. The show features a mix of established actors and rising stars.
24. The production team worked closely with Mick Herron to stay true to the source material.
25. Filming took place in various locations around London.

Reception and Impact of "Slow Horses"

"Slow Horses" has made a significant impact since its release, garnering praise from critics and viewers alike. The show's success has also brought renewed attention to Mick Herron's novels.

26. The series has a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
27. Critics have praised the show's writing, acting, and direction.
28. Gary Oldman's performance as Jackson Lamb has been particularly lauded.
29. The show has sparked renewed interest in the "Slough House" novels.
30. Fans are eagerly anticipating future seasons of the series.

Fun Facts about "Slow Horses"

There are many interesting tidbits about "Slow Horses" that fans might not know. These fun facts add another layer of intrigue to the already captivating series.

31. Gary Oldman reportedly based his character on real-life MI5 agents.
32. The title "Slow Horses" refers to the agents' perceived incompetence.
33. Mick Herron has a cameo in the first season.
34. The show's theme song is performed by Mick Jagger.
35. The series has been renewed for multiple seasons, ensuring more espionage adventures to come.

Final Thoughts on Slow Horses

Slow Horses offers a gripping look into the world of espionage. The series, based on Mick Herron's novels, dives deep into the lives of MI5 agents relegated to Slough House. These agents, often seen as failures, show resilience and determination. The characters, led by the gruff Jackson Lamb, are complex and relatable. The show's blend of humor, drama, and suspense keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate plots and unexpected twists, Slow Horses stands out in the spy genre. Whether you're a fan of espionage or just looking for a compelling story, this series won't disappoint. Dive into the world of Slow Horses and discover the hidden depths of these so-called "rejects."