Ep 3. Spies Next Door

In Spy Wars With Damian Lewis season 1 episode 3, titled Spies Next Door, the focus is on one of the most notorious spy cases in modern history: the Russian sleeper agents. This episode explores the story of ten Russian spies who, in 2010, were discovered living undercover in the United States. It includes interviews with key players in the case, including FBI agents and the daughter of one of the spies.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the spy trade, and the importance of undercover agents in espionage operations. Damian Lewis explains how sleeper agents are trained to blend in with their surroundings, and how difficult they can be to detect. However, in the case of the Russian spies, a lucky break led to their discovery.

The episode then introduces the ten spies, who are code-named after famous figures such as Anna Chapman (named after the British spy of the same name), and were living in various locations across the United States. The spies were communicating with their Russian handlers through a complex system of secret messages, which were hidden on public websites. However, the FBI had been tracking the spies for years, and had managed to intercept the messages.

The episode goes in-depth into the methods that the FBI used to monitor the spies, including the use of secret cameras and audio bugging devices. It also highlights the challenges that the FBI faced in keeping the investigation secret, as they did not want to alert the spies to their presence. We hear from the FBI agents who were involved in the case, who explain how difficult it was to maintain their cover while trying to gather evidence.

The episode then turns to the fallout from the discovery of the spies, and the political implications of the case. It features interviews with officials from both the United States and Russia, who offer their perspectives on the case. It also delves into the personal lives of the spies, including their families, and the impact that the case had on them.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the exploration of the cultural differences between the Russian spies and their American neighbours. We hear from people who lived next door to the spies, who describe them as friendly and outgoing. However, these same neighbours were shocked to learn that their friendly neighbours were, in fact, Russian spies.

Overall, Spy Wars With Damian Lewis season 1 episode 3 is a fascinating exploration of one of the most audacious spy cases in recent times. It offers an insight into the world of espionage, and the challenges that law enforcement agencies face in monitoring the activities of undercover agents. The episode is well-paced, with a mix of interviews and reconstructions that keep the viewer engaged throughout. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the spy trade, or in the intersection between politics and espionage.