Gary Oldman Dismisses Tinker, Tailor Oscar Talk

Gary Oldman has shrugged off suggestions that his performance in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy could win him an Academy Award.

Oldman plays British spy George Smiley in the movie adaptation of John Le Carre's novel, alongside former Oscar winner Colin Firth.

Speaking at the movie's premiere, he told Metro: "I don't follow it but it's nice if people are saying it, it's better than them not saying it."

Of Smiley, who has been played in the past by Alec Guinness, Oldman said: "There's a bit of a sadistic side to George that we've brought to the fore: he's a disenchanted romantic."

When asked of his co-star's chances of picking up a Best Actor gong Firth - who picked up the award for The King's Speech - said: "I think it's been a long time coming, I think he's among the best that's ever been.

"I'd have been throwing awards at him for 30 years."

Le Carre is also in agreement, adding: "[Oldman's performance] pays full honour to the genius of Guinness."

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is released on September 16.