Keira Knightley didn’t have an extensive background in the world of espionage before taking on the role of a wife, mother and spy in the new Netflix series “Black Doves.” That didn’t stop her from relating to the character because of the years Knightley has spent as an actress and a mom.

Netflix's new spy thriller Black Doves is set to premiere on the streaming platform this week and stars Keira Knightley in the lead role of Helen Webb

Keira Knightley is perfectly cast in Netflix's ambitious and engaging spy thriller that packs uniquely strong punches with a few forceful whiffs.

The London of Black Doves (Netflix, from Thursday, December 5), a shiny stocking-filler with a difference, is straight out of the Richard Curtis school of glossy seasonal entertainment.

Gritty spy thrillers aren't the usual Christmas fare, but new Netflix drama Black Doves does have a festive setting. It stars Keira Knightley, who had the standout role in the great Christmas film Love Actually, and Ben Whishaw, the voice of Paddington, playing against type as a gun-toting hitman.

You probably recognise Andrew from his roles in Broadchurch and Industry, while he has also starred in The Crown as Andrew Parker Bowles, The ABC Murders and COBRA. Kathryn plays Lennie in Black Doves, who Netflix describe as "the person who gives Sam his first job. She’s as violent and dangerous as she is witty and sharp."