Plot Synopsis

This four-episode drama series tells the story of the man whose own life and escapades were the inspiration for one of the most iconic figures in modern literature: James Bond. Before Bond's adventures hit the page or screen, they were experienced first-hand by author-to-be Ian Fleming, a charming and sophisticated maverick, whose pleasure-seeking life was turned around by WWII. At the outbreak of WWII, Fleming, untroubled by the specter of impending war, was chasing women, collecting rare books and living off his family fortune. Forever in the shadow of his brother, Peter, and an eternal disappointment to his formidable mother, Eve, Fleming dreamt of becoming the ultimate man: a hero, a lover, a brute and the one who always got the girl. When he was recruited by the Director of Naval Intelligence, Admiral John Godfrey, to help in the effort against the Nazis, Fleming found his chance to shine and prove his worth. As he encountered the shocking consequences and challenges of war, he learned where his talents lie. With the somewhat skeptical support of tough-cookie Lieutenant Monday, Fleming's ability to spin a tale made him a perfect fit for espionage and quickly took him from pushing paper to stealing secrets. Two weeks after its world premiere on BBC America, FLEMING debuted in the UK on Sky Atlantic on Wednesday, February 12.