Tony Gilroy has become a household name among sci-fi fans for his work on Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and the acclaimed series Andor. But long before he took audiences to a galaxy far, far away, Gilroy was crafting taut, intelligent thrillers for the big screen. One of his most underrated gems is Beirut, a gripping political spy drama that also showcases Jon Hamm at his absolute best.
Released in 2018, Beirut is a classic old-school espionage tale that feels like a lost gem from the 1970s. Gilroy, who earned Oscar nominations for his directorial debut Michael Clayton and helped shape the Bourne franchise, wrote the screenplay with a sharp eye for moral complexity and geopolitical tension. The film proves that his talents extend far beyond the Star Wars universe.
What Is 'Beirut' About?
Hamm stars as Mason Skiles, a retired American diplomat haunted by the violent death of his wife during a posting overseas. Now struggling with alcoholism and depression, Skiles is lured back to Lebanon under the pretense of attending an academic conference. Once there, he discovers the real reason for his return: his old friend and colleague Cal Riley (Mark Pellegrino) has been kidnapped by a militant group demanding a prisoner exchange.
With global stakes high and negotiations fragile, CIA field officer Sandy Crowder (Rosamund Pike) recruits Skiles to broker a deal. The film doesn't shy away from the messy realities of international diplomacy, showing how American intervention can backfire while also acknowledging the human cost of leaving allies behind. Skiles is a fascinating protagonist precisely because he has no political agenda—he's only there to save a friend he feels he owes.
Why Jon Hamm Shines
Hamm brings the same magnetic gravitas he displayed as Don Draper on Mad Men, but here he channels it into a broken, weary man trying to reclaim his purpose. His scenes of tense negotiation feel utterly authentic, and his portrayal of grief and redemption gives the thriller emotional weight. The film doesn't rely on big action set pieces; instead, it builds suspense through dialogue and character, much like the best entries in the Bourne series or even the intricate storytelling of Andor.
For fans of Gilroy's work on Andor, Beirut offers a similar blend of political intrigue and personal stakes. It's a reminder that the creator of one of the best Star Wars stories ever told has been making top-tier genre entertainment for decades. If you're looking for a smart, adult thriller that doesn't talk down to its audience, Beirut is well worth seeking out.
And for those who love a good spy story, you might also enjoy Jason Statham's 'Mechanic: Resurrection' or the time-travel twists in Hulu's 'Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice'. But for pure, character-driven espionage, Beirut is a standout.
