Michael Fassbender's 'The Agency' Divides Critics With Its Slow-Burning Spy Drama

The new Paramount+ and Showtime series offers a grounded take on espionage but struggles with pacing and character development.

The Agency, a 10-episode adaptation of the French series 'Le Bureau des Légendes,' premieres November 29 on Paramount+ with Showtime.
Michael Fassbender stars as Martian, a CIA agent grappling with the psychological fallout of years undercover and a rekindled romance with Jodie Turner-Smith's character.
While praised for its grounded portrayal of espionage and strong performances, particularly Fassbender's, critics note the series' slow pacing and lack of narrative focus in early episodes.
The show explores the personal and professional toll of covert work, blending spy genre tropes with themes of identity, loyalty, and mental health.
Despite high production values and a star-studded cast, some reviews suggest the series lacks the tension and originality needed to stand out in a crowded genre.