'Underrated' Tom Hanks war thriller dubbed 'filmmaking at its finest' now on BBC iPlayer

War film enthusiasts are in for a treat as one of the most acclaimed films in the genre is now available to watch at no cost.

This modern classic, which hit the big screen ten years ago, offers a subtle yet captivating thriller set in the heart of the Cold War.

Not only does it feature one of Hollywood's most adored leading men, Tom Hanks, but it was also directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg and received an impressive six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.

Co-star Mark Rylance also bagged the Supporting Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the Soviet spy known under the pseudonym Rudolf Abel.

We're referring, of course, to the enthralling Cold War thriller Bridge of Spies, which will be broadcast on BBC tonight (Wednesday, 3rd September) at 10:40pm.

It will then be accessible for streaming on BBC iPlayer free of charge for a limited period - fans should act swiftly though, as it may not remain on the platform for long.

The gripping historical thriller stars Tom Hanks as solicitor James B Donovan who is tasked with a perilous mission during the Cold War to negotiate the release of a CIA pilot from the Soviet Union in exchange for Abel's freedom.

Bridge of Spies was met with immediate critical praise upon its release, a reputation that endures to this day, reports the Mirror.

Empire praised the film in their glowing review: "So godlike is Spielberg's status that we often take his talents for granted.

"The strange, riveting mix of Bridge Of Spies is another sterling reminder that we shouldn't."

New Statesman enthused: "The genius of the casting is in the contrast: Hanks, the richly sympathetic screen actor, and Rylance, no less colossal a talent but one comparatively untried in cinema."

Meanwhile, Us Weekly acclaimed: "When all the international parties finally meet up at the shadowy titular bridge, we get to witness humanity - and classic filmmaking - at its finest."

Professional critics aren't the only ones who regard the film as amongst Spielberg's finest work, with one five-star Google review declaring: "This is one of those films that you see again, years later, and realize so many things that are great about it.

"The cinematography is both moody at times and intimate. The two leads are absolutely outstanding.

"I would call this an underrated film on many levels and it is one of my very favorite Spielberg films."

Fancy a gripping thriller set during one of the 20th Century's most turbulent eras?

Bridge of Spies airs on BBC Two tonight at 10:40pm and will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer.