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Comments
13. Die Another Day (2002) - Let the crucifixion begin lol. Yes the CGI is godawful, the story is ludicrous, and some of the writing seems like it was written by a five year old but this movie is pure nostalgia for me. I end up watching it quite a bit. I think Brosnan is great, Stephens and Pike are good villains, Zao is a cool henchman, the score is great, the locations are solid, the action is good apart from the CGI surfing, and I love the vivid and colorful look the film has. It feels like a true celebration to me.
B
14. The World Is Not Enough (1999) - This is one of those films that grows on me every time I watch it. Its biggest pros are the character of Elektra and Bond's relationship with her. Some of the dialogue is a bit too dramatic for my taste though. The action is good for the most part and Arnold's score is good as usual. Denise Richards is weak but oh my God is she hot. Also, I think the climax is kinda weak. Overall, I think this is a very underrated movie with a few flaws.
B
15. Tomorrow Never Dies (1997) - I look at this film as Brosnan's YOLT or TSWLM. I actually enjoy this one more than those though. I think this film has the best action and gadgets of the Brosnan era. Pryce is a decent villain and Wai Lin is a cool Bond girl. It's just a really fun movie.
B
16. Diamonds Are Forever (1971) - As much as I would have loved a revenge film, I adore this movie as it is. I think Connery is great, I love Tiffany, I get a kick out of Gray as Blofeld and Wint and Kidd, and I enjoy the Vegas setting. With a better climax, this would have ranked a little higher.
B
17. Octopussy (1983) - This one was hard to rank. I love the Cold War atmosphere, the villains are great, and Maud Adams has much better character this time. If the film has a weakness, it's just that it goes on a little too long and some of the humor is out of place.
B
18. Skyfall (2012) - This is very good but overrated movie. My biggest complaint is really just that it undoes a lot of the work set up by CR and QOS. I think it was too early in his tenure to have Craig's Bond all washed up and some of the writing is pretty weak. The action lacks the intensity of the previous two films as well. That being said, it works quite well when you take it as its own thing, which was the point. The cast is great and the cinematography is absolutely stunning. I really like the China and Scotland scenes as well.
B
19. A View to a Kill (1985) - Moore was too old at this point but I don't care. I never get tired of him. The score is phenomenal, I love the locations, the villains are quirky, and Moore gives one of his best performances. The action isn't anything to write home about though.
B
20. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) - I expect to catch a little sh*t for having this film so low. I enjoy this film. I really do. I just think it's overrated. Stromberg is a boring villain and Bach is wooden as Anya. Other than that, this film is a classic. I just enjoy the others more.
B
21. Moonraker (1979) - For a while, this was the only film that I didn't like. That changed a couple years ago. I enjoy it quite a bit now and even think it does a few things better than TSWLM. There's a bit too much humor at times and I've never cared for Jaws becoming good, but it's a fun ride.
B
22. The Man with the Golden Gun (1974) - I love the first 45 minutes and the finale is pretty decent. Unfortunately, the Thailand scenes are pretty forgettable, the energy plot feels tacked on, and Goodnight is a weak character. On the plus side, I like Moore's more serious performance, the settings are exotic, Lee is one of my favorite villains, and I've always been a J.W. fan.
B-
23. You Only Live Twice (1967) - I'll start with the bad. Connery is clearly done with the role, the writing isn't as strong as the other 60s films, some of the special effects are pretty rough, Kissy is cringe worthy, and the whole section of Bond becoming Japanese is boring. That being said, the first half is terrific and the finale is exciting. So I enjoy like 65% of the film. It's not bad at all. Just not as good as the rest. Enough can't be said about the score and cinematography. The film looks and sounds beautiful.
B-
24. Spectre (2015) - I think I'm one of the biggest detractors of this film on here. I don't care for hardly any of the story or stylistic decisions in this. The PTS is solid, the Rome scenes are enjoyable, and the train fight is awesome. Other than that, this movie has boring action, overly familiar locations, a mediocre script and plot, an idiotic retcon that tarnishes the previous film, a bland score, and a yellow filter that makes the film look lifeless. This is the one film that I don't consider canon. I group it with NSNA.
D-
@GoldenGun it has ranked higher before. Could happen again if I'm in the right mood.
I actually agree with this. FRWL is a film I can appreciate more than I can really enjoy watching. Its not just the pace which is slow, but the undramatic and slow editing and overall execution of scenes. Dr No gets away with ghis because its more of a mystery film, and Goldfinger is more modern in its execution (think of the editing during thd laser bed scene, or the ticking time climax). But FRWL gets caught between two stools for me. The only action I really like are the close quarters fisticuffs. Anytime they attempt anything with scale, it just comes off staged and clunky. Likd the barrels of oil which the boats stupidly drive into during the climax. And when you strip all that stuff out, what you are left with is an extremely wordy, stuffy story with just a few scuffles to act puncture it. This might be exhilirating for 1963, but it doesn't hold IMO.
And before anyone suggests it, I am perfectly fine watching older movies, and Dr No is actually my favourite Bond film. For me it comes down to what they trying to achieve, and Dr No just fit better for the time and the budget they had. By the time of Goldfinger they were already embracing the bombast.
Thanks @peter.
Pacing has typically been the biggest issue I had with FRWL, but I was surprised that my most recent viewing a few days back was one of the best viewings I've had of the film in years, even going as far as ranking it above GF, which I don't believe I've done in a long time, if ever.
That Gypsy scene though...
Like @Birdleson, I love that scene.
My thoughts exactly. The fact that it’s an older movie makes it even better. It has aged very well I’d say. A stylish, slow-paced exercise in 1960’s chique.
24. Spectre (2015)
Apart from a nice opening shot, an okay car chase and a few funny Q moments, this film does pretty much everything wrong. But in comparison to most other lesser entries this one commits an even greater sin, it makes 007 dull. Bond has been ridiculous, absurd and even childish at times but he was never dull. Until Sam Mendes came along. As if that wasn’t enough SP also turns one of the most legendary Bond foes into a whining father-issued bore. That’s the worst idea in the history of James Bond, and that includes tsunami surfing, insulting The Beatles, slide whistles and pidgeon double-takes.
GoldenGun's score: 4/10
23. Skyfall (2012)
We’re only at the second to last spot and the first big name has already fallen. There will be others. You have been warned. That being said, I try to make an honest list and I like pretty much every other Bond film better. Good acting and fine cinematography notwithstanding I find SF a rather pretentious, poorly written and energyfree event. I realize other films have more glaring plot holes, but none of those films feel so self-important as SF. 007 also lacks a considerable amount of vitality. Moreover, I’m not very keen on origin stories surrounding my beloved hero. You will find some considerable Craig appreciation when we come to QOS, however.
GoldenGun's score: 5/10
22. Moonraker (1979)
Somewhere deep down MR is a masterpiece. Sets that would have fit Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey, an epic music score, fabulous cinematography and rather witty dialogue are proof of that. Also, Drax and Goodhead are fine supporting characters and Jaws makes a return. Bar one eerie scene in a Rio back alley he is mostly a parody of himself however and unfortunately so is the entire film. Inexplicable and lazy writing betray the film’s intend to cash in on the sci-fi craze. Desolated, Mr. Bond.
GoldenGun's score: 6/10
21. Diamonds Are Forever (1971)
“Mouton Rothschild is a claret.” Indeed it is. Using his wine knowledge to unmask a couple of villains is a master stroke. Alas, one of the few master strokes in this film. A boring oil rig climax, a crass circus scene, poor special effects and a vulgar Bond girl are hard to digest. Happily Charles Gray as Blofeld is a joy to watch, same goes for Wint and Kidd and Sean is charismatic even when he doesn't try. Special shout-out to Klaus Hergesheimer, the most friendly bloke to ever check a radiation shield.
GoldenGun's score: 6/10
20. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Clearly I like Rog’s first and last two outings more than what came in between. Not that I can’t stand TSWLM of course. There is a lot to enjoy here: beautiful locations, thrilling stunts, a submersible Lotus and a fine performance by the man himself. The film has two major issues however. The Liparus finale not only bores me a bit, it’s also a largely musicless affair that seems to go on forever. An even greater sin is Anya Amasova, portrayed by Barbara Bach. You can have your damsel in distress or your unconvincing nuclear scientist once in a while but wasting a perfectly good and well-motivated character like Anya for the sake of a wooden actress with a fine-formed facade is an even greater sin. Also Jaws is a great henchman for only half of the film. Audiences remember what they did to him in MR, but it all started in the latter half of this film unfortunately. For me, TSWLM is fine but I’m not nearly as crazy about it as many others are.
GoldenGun's score: 7/10
19. For Your Eyes Only (1981)
Roger jumps up from a questionable trip to space in a film that doesn’t do much wrong but can’t seem to excel either. Topol is a highlight though, an ally in the tradition of old. Full of charisma but not free of sin, yet tremendously likeable. The locations are interesting too, who could say no to a Cold War themed Bond film set entirely in Southern Europe? Great crossbow-wielding Bond girl as well and a fine gadgetfree car chase through the olive trees. Poor old Kristatos isn’t the best villain unfortunately. Quite frankly he is the perfect metaphor for the film. Doesn’t do much wrong but too easily forgotten in hindsight. A bland climax doesn’t help things either. I’m also still puzzled how a film that tries to go back to basics ends with a parrot asking the PM for a kiss. Better watch the same parrot in that brilliant fight scene in TLD I’d say.
GoldenGun's score: 7/10
18. Die Another Day (2002)
Yes I know DAD has poor CGI, some cringy puns and a truly woeful finale. You can make a trilogy of documentaries about what goes wrong with this film but let’s try and make a case for the defence, shall we? The ice palace is the best villain lair since the seventies, the Vanquish v Jag is a spectacular duel between two jaw-dropping cars, the fencing club scenes are classic Bond, Rosamund Pike is the last great femme fatale so far and who cannot love Raoul, the cigar smoking Cuban ally who makes you chuckle after every sentence? Now to shock everyone, am I allowed to like Jinx and the Madonna song without being guillotined? Ok, I’ll just go right ahead and admit I like DAD. Sure it’s not a masterpiece but I can find quite a lot to like about it. After all it was in this period that I became a fan of the series (while endlessly playing Nightfire). So I think I’m allowed to reward Pierce’s final stroll as 007 some nostalgia points too.
GoldenGun's score: 7/10
17. You Only Live Twice (1967)
You could say the Bond films can sometimes indulge in style over substance and it is never so apparent as in the Lewis Gilbert films. Incredible larger-than-life sets by Ken Adam? Check. Lush locations shot in glorious widescreen and blessed with eye-popping cinematography? Check. An epic music score? Check. The plot is three times the same too however: crazy rich guy wants to destroy/dominate the world. Austin Powers is forever grateful. Still though, YOLT keeps the pace up, gives us Tanaka and Henderson, a fabulous climax and a great Sir Sean moment: “Ugh, Siamese wodka.” Don't you love it when James is a bit snobby from time to time? I definitely do.
GoldenGun's score: 7/10
16. A View to a Kill (1985)
With its undeniable 1980’s atmosphere, memorable characters like Zorin, May Day and Tibbett, a stellar title song and ditto music score and an excellent landmark climax AVTAK gets the honour of the highest ranked swansong of a long-term Bond actor. Some things are better forgotten nevertheless. Such as a terrible fire truck chase, the most obvious stunt doubling ever put to celluloid and Stacey Sutton, the prime example of a character going downhill after a strong introduction.
GoldenGun's score: 8/10
15. Live and Let Die (1973)
Roger Moore’s debut entry is a unique one for its voodoo settings and its supernatural elements. As a fan of (Italian) horror films of the era I applaud these additions. I also adore, truly adore, Baron Samedi, possibly my favourite henchman. Everything about this guy is both comical and scary at the same time. Kudos also to the great Julius W. Harris for bringing Tee Hee so amusingly alive. Our main man, Sir Rog, does a more than capable job too, skippering somewhere between his later more unflappable style and a more to-the-point performance. Great M scene too, one of my favourites. “Is that all it does?” The everyday nature of this line amidst a mission briefing is pure genius. There are problems too alas, the obvious one is Kananga exploding. Poor show. Please also make Gloria Hendry shut up, even Rog couldn’t lick her into shape. Now that’s out of the way, I genuinely like LALD with its crazy but well-applied voodoo theme (insert Samedi’s laugh here).
GoldenGun's score: 8/10
14. Casino Royale (2006)
Shockingly low I know. Yet I do like this film, just not as much as anyone else. My major problem here is the whole ‘Bond Begins’ angle. I remember that after the success of Batman Begins many filmmakers felt the urge to tell us ‘how it all began’. But I like my 007 to have a sense mystery surrounding his past and if anything it made me miss the days of DN where Bond started off already fully formed. From the introduction of Vesper onwards however the film reaches quite a few highs. The middle section, from the train ride to the torture scene, is a well-written and thrilling piece of cinema. The final third might feel like a bit of an afterthought but it is definitely acceptable. Still though, the real star of the show here is Eva Green who is the only Bond actress ever to come even close to Diana Rigg. In the end, I’d say CR is not quite the masterpiece many make of it but it is a fine Bond film nonetheless.
GoldenGun's score: 8/10
13. Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)
Pierce Brosnan delivers a confident and chucklesome performance as James Bond in a rather well-written and fast-paced entry. Having done my masters degree in journalism and being currently active in media I can somewhat relate to the subject of news framing, making this entry’s plot one of particular personal interest. With fabulous stunt work, Jonathan Pryce hamming it up with gusto and Vincent Schiavelli delivering the hilarious crackpot Dr. Kaufman, the film also scores high on the amusement scale even though the action is a bit too much non-stop near the end.
GoldenGun's score: 8/10
12. Goldfinger (1964)
GF has an incredible line-up of characters and I love every single one of them: Goldfinger, Jill, Oddjob, Pussy and to a lesser extent Tilly. I also love golf, so it’s nice to see Bond practising this fine sport. The film goes from one highlight to another... until they get to Kentucky and it all comes to a stop. A fine conversation between Bond and Goldfinger notwithstanding, Bond becomes a bystander in his own film and casually ‘turns’ Pussy Galore in a scene of questionable taste. Luckily it all ends on a high again when they move to Fort Knox. Probably the most beautiful set designed for a (Bond) film, literally a Hall of Gold. Without the ranch scenes I think I would put this in my top 10. As it stands, I still like it a lot and GF ends up in the upper half nevertheless.
GoldenGun's score: 9/10
11. Dr. No (1962)
Much like the other Terence Young entries, I think DN benefits from its age. One can see this film is old, yet it has a timeless quality. Despite its budget this film oozes style and sophistication. Terence Young and Sean Connery hit precisely the right notes the first time out. An exotic, mysterious and charming adventure with unforgettable supporting characters like Dr. No, Honey, Quarrel and that crazy photographer lady. I suppose Jack Lord might be my favourite Felix too, though Hedison does give him a run for his money. Also Bernard Lee gives his best performance here I’d say: “Just leave the Beretta.” Lovely stuff. Apart from the titular theme tune though, the music score can be a bit too basic at times. It can also be said that quite a few typical Bond tropes presented here for the first time have been bettered since but that doesn’t take anything away from DN’s qualities. Overall an excellent first entry to the series.
GoldenGun's score: 9/10
10. Quantum of Solace (2008)
I am not renowned for my appreciation of the Daniel Craig era so it seems almost fitting that my preferred Craig entry is the much-maligned QOS. In fact, there are only two moments that I don’t genuinely like here: the poorly edited boat chase and the implausible freefall scene. I honestly quite like this film for the rest. More so than the showy Mendes films it displays moments of true art. The Palio chase and the floating opera scene are prime examples of fine filmmaking. Craig also gives his most Bondian performance of all here: subtle, energetic, well-dressed and quite funny at times. The hotel switch is 100% Bond. I like how Bond effortlessly speaks and understands foreign languages in this film too. Furthermore, the quieter scenes are among the highlights as well: at Mathis’ house, in the plane, in the cave and that final scene in Kazan. Excellent stuff. Add to all that David Arnold’s fine score, a sense of mystery throughout, a relevant plot, the great René Mathis and the intruiging Camille and I have difficulties to understand the hate it gets. And oh yes, I love those location title cards!
GoldenGun's score: 9/10
9. Octopussy (1983)
Much in the same way as TMWTGG I can easily see why people tend to rate this one lower. Some childish humour here and there is unfortunate. Don’t be fooled though, this is an excellent spy film, mixing colourful India with East-West tensions around the former Inner German Border (including a fine car chase featuring that gorgeous Alfa GTV). Boasting the hilarious Orlov, the slimy Kamal Kahn, sexy Magda, charming Octopussy and Roger Moore in one of his best turns in the role. Some excellent stunt work and a fine Barry score to top things off. An all time high for 007 indeed.
GoldenGun's score: 9/10
8. The World Is Not Enough (1999)
TWINE is a special film for me, it was the first Bond film I ever saw and it sold me on the franchise. So yes, I know Denise Richards is not convincing as a nuclear scientist but I don’t care. I even like her here to be honest. The real star of the show however is Sophie Marceau with a captivating performance. As a member once described: “Bond thinks he has found Tracy but he has found Blofeld instead.” Pierce Brosnan also excels in his third outing and the return of Zukovsky is a more than welcome one. Never been the biggest fan of BMW’s but the Z8 is a beautiful machine. Add David Arnold’s excellent mix of orchestra and electronic tunes and you’ve got a clear favourite.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
7. The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
The film that inspired my nickname. Always liked it more than I probably should. Silliness galore of course but nevertheless a favourite. Because regardless of its flaws, this film contains many of my top choices: Sir Christopher Lee as Scaramanga (favourite villain), the funhouse (favourite villain lair) and the golden gun (favourite gadget). Roger Moore also shines in this outing too. I quite like early Rog, who inhabits more Fleming than one might guess. Also love the locations here and I have a soft spot for the two Swedish ladies too. I even like the kung fu sword fight in the middle section.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
6. Thunderball (1965)
This film is what I consider 007 at his most archetypical best. In the middle of the series' peak decade with Sean Connery in top form, effortlessly uttering witty dialogue as he goes. The scubagear action, the sharks, eye-patched Largo, a great John Barry score, the SPECTRE meeting, colourful locations, the jetpack, the DB5, a French beauty and my absolute favourite femme fatale Fiona Volpe. It’s all there, mysterious in the first half, epic in the second. Absolutely love TB!
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
5. GoldenEye (1995)
Sometimes I feel like I am one of the few fans who hold both Dalton and Brosnan in high regard. Pierce really shines here in his first outing, in an all together very well-cast film. Trevelyan, Xenia, Natalya, Boris, Ourumov, Wade, Mishkin and Zukovsky, what a fine collection of characters! I like the 007 v 006 angle too, an evenly-matched villain if there ever was one. Also think that GE has a great atmosphere. Not in the least thanks to its underrated Eric Serra score. My favourite non-Barry score of the franchise.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
4. From Russia with Love (1963)
I always find it difficult to say something new about FRWL. The film is rightfully considered as one of the greats and I have rarely something to add to that statement. I would argue it boasts the best collection of villains though: unseen Blofeld, Grant, Klebb, Kronsteen and Morzeny. Despite that, the heroes are unforgettable as well with Tania and Kerim Bey. The whole thing is led by Sean Connery at his peak as Bond. Maybe the franchise would not have lasted as long if they tried to continue in the same trend as FRWL, but it remains one of the very best Bond films nevertheless. If I try to be objective, I’d say either this one or OHMSS is the best Bond film.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
3. Licence to Kill (1989)
Some might claim that Bond meets Miami Vice here. Maybe they have a point, but I love Miami Vice and I love 80’s atmosphere. Combine that with my favourite 007, Timothy Dalton, playing Bond with intensity and determination and LTK is bound to be a favourite. The film comprises a great ensemble of villains too, a competent Bond girl in the lovely Pam and it includes Desmond Llewelynn’s finest hour as Q. The story gets me invested every time again with Bond destroying Sanchez' organisation from within. Great to see James use his wits to achieve his goals. The phenomenal tanker truck chase that ends with Bond completing his revenge with his “leiter” is the most satisfying finale of the franchise.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
2. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)
I have always liked George Lazenby as 007, bringing a more flawed and human James Bond to the table when that was not yet en vogue. OHMSS isn’t just an epic James Bond film, it’s an epic James Bond film that is revolutionary both for its exciting action editing as well as for its depressing ending. Must have been one of the first times where the action hero loses his wife just before the credits roll. The cinematography, the atmosphere, the music, the plot, Lazenby, Savalas, Ferzetti and Diana Rigg, who happens to be my favourite Bond girl of them all, make OHMSS an absolute highlight.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
1. The Living Daylights (1987)
Everything I look for in a Bond film. Mixes both the “Flemingness” of the books with the imaginative escapism of the films. Cold War tension, an intruiging plot, a beautiful Aston Martin, stylish attire, exotic locations mixed with Central European border crossings, Barry’s best Bond score, atmospherical cinematography, a likeable Bond girl, a lot of great allies, with Pushkin being my favourite ally of the franchise, and, despite their poor reputation, I even like the villains here too. Oh and I love the 80’s and this film oozes 80’s atmosphere. All that featuring my favourite Bond actor Timothy Dalton.
GoldenGun's score: 10/10
Always like seeing OP make anyone's top 10. ;)
Very cool ranking! I love the appreciation for both Tim and Pierce.
I know, though 7/10 isn’t bad at all. Still, I’m sure he would be more than happy with my TMWTGG and OP love ;) @barryt007
He would indeed GG,but I still need to let my Bond idol know about TSWLM :
TOP FIVE:
Doctor No. The first of the best, and it’s amazing how much this movie gets right, coming out of the gate: the music, the editing, the man, the women, the villains! This one does everything right and almost nothing wrong (Honeychile should have been black, IMO). Now, I am not the sort of contrarian who proclaims, e.g., “Reservoir Dogs is better than Pulp Fiction” because obviously this is not the case—but I can see their point: PF is a long collection of shaggy dog stories while RD is a brilliantly distilled gem of a film, sparkling in its purity of essence. (In this comparison, Dr. No is RD, and FRWL is PF.) DN is a tight-knit hardboiled detective caper which escalates into a sci-fi doomsday thriller. Great stuff!
From Russia, With Love. Veers away from the pattern established by DN and into Hitchcockian spy thriller territory instead, but this is a good thing. While in many ways superior to DN (bigger/prettier/more elaborate/more polished), in other ways you can already see the rot setting in: as much as I like the girl-fight, for example, the trip to the Gypsy camp could be edited out with a throw-away line: “On second thought, let’s NOT go to the Gypsy camp—it is a silly place.” The big Gypsy camp shootout, filmed in gorgeous night-for-night, is shot and staged the same as any frontier fort shoot-em-up in the Western pictures of the era. And a pair of gratuitous action set-pieces (the helicopters, the boats) taking place after the dramatic climax (fight with Grant) makes this movie overlong and flabby (plus, shot in cheesy day-for-night). Also, something about a sex tape??? Whatever! The series starts out with a pair of giants… then it goes downhill from there.
Casino Royale. The Second Coming of James Bond! As much as I loved Sean Connery, I now feel that Daniel Craig is “my” Bond. He has reimagined, reinvented and reinvigorated a character (and a movie series) which had grown stale. Like Bond himself, the movie is stylish and brutal in equal measure. Eva Green is wonderful.
Skyfall. I have to admit I came out of my first screening of this movie asking: “Best Bond movie ever? Or best MOVIE ever??” LOL perhaps I was over-enthused, but still: this more personal Bond story delivers in spades, simultaneously fulfilling expectations and subverting conventions. Javier Barden is awesome.
No Time to Die. No, I haven’t seen it yet. But man, I am so stoked for this movie that I am reserving it a slot in the Top Five just on general principles! Did I mention that Daniel Craig is “my” Bond?
Above Average:
Goldfinger. This is the one where it all comes together for the first time: the plot, the style, the man, the mission—this is THE quintessential Bond flick. Sure, I have a few quibbles: was it really necessary to show our hero in the beginning with a duck on his head? (The vet says, How can I help you? And the duck says, Can you get this guy off my ass? Ha-hah!) The plot is really more a collection of plot holes, held together solely by the sheer animal magnetism of Sean Connery. But Connery was never better than here. I love this guy.
The Spy Who Loved Me. The best of the Lewis Gilbert trilogy, and the first good movie in the series since Gilbert’s previous Bond flick ten years earlier. TSWLM reversed a decade of decline and possibly saved the series. Love the Lotus.
The Living Daylights. Timothy Dalton was almost a great Bond. I appreciate the more serious approach he tried to take. The mid-air cargo net fight still takes my breath away. For what it’s worth, I consider Dalton–Bond to be the same character portrayed by Connery and Moore: yes, he’s younger, but they had to replace the actor because it took the filmmakers over 25 years to document events which occurred over a span of only (roughly) 15 years.
License to Kill. Your mileage may vary, but I prefer LTK over TLD: better bad guy, more dramatic finish. The big-rig action scene is more believable than an assault on a hollowed-out volcano, for example. “For Felix!” If the series had ended here, it would have ended on a perfect note.
Goldeneye. The First Reboot! The Craig films sometimes get criticized for being too character-oriented, but the psychoanalysis of James Bond begins here. Bond getting called a sexist, misogynistic dinosaur! 006 asking if all those vodka martinis have drowned out the screams of the men he’s killed—classic literature! And even better, when 006 then asks if Bond finds “forgiveness in the arms of all those willing women, for all the dead ones you failed to protect?” Gives me shivers!!
Average:
Thunderball. What an embarrassment of riches, when the series has so many great movies that even ‘the Big One’ can be considered merely average. Filmed on location and under the sea, TB looks real because it IS real. (Of course, this also leads to it being somewhat unwieldy and turgid at times, but nothing is perfect.) This is a high-tech techno-thriller, decades before Tom Clancy’s Hunt for Red October made such things fashionable. Maurice Binder is back! And Tom Jones is spectacular!
You Only Live Twice. The other Big One. People criticize Moonraker as ‘James Bond in space,’ but the space race was a big part of Dr. No, and an even bigger part of YOLT. Bond in space was inevitable, and it almost happens here. With Blofeld and the volcano, this movie is second only to GF as the most iconic and quintessential of the series. The special effects are beautiful. The score is lovely.
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. This is the one where they stopped inventing the Bond tropes and idioms, and started trading on them instead. Despite generally poor reviews, this movie is not half bad—specifically, the second half. The first half is long and boring. George Lazenby is so leaden that he almost single-handedly sinks the ship. Thank god for Diana Rigg. But we’re supposed to believe they fall into true love? Why—because they got a montage?? I am not convinced. I like Telly Savalas’s Blofeld, but the plot hole bothered me even as a child: Blofeld doesn’t recognize Bond because… they’re played by different actors? And Blofeld’s evil scheme is the craziest evil scheme ever: he will hypnotize supermodels to smuggle bird flu into England in their perfume bottles?? Is he planning on cornering the poultry market? The action redeems the second half. Nice cinematography, nice editing, nice work on the part of the filmmakers. Love the score, but why no title song? Loved the ending—but where was the song? This movie is deeply flawed, but it’s high points elevate it to the middle of the pack in my estimation.
Moonraker. The sequel to TSWLM gets a lot of flak as the one where Bond goes into space, but as I’ve already said, Bond going into space was an historic inevitability. I see MR as the spiritual sequel to DN and YOLT; had the series ended here I would have felt that it ended on its perfect summation. The music is lovely and the special effect are breathtaking. Ken Adams, John Barry and Maurice Binder all together for the fourth and final time—truly the end of an era.
For Your Eyes Only. A pretty enjoyable return to form. It has sharks, but the dry-for-wet scuba scenes do not pass muster. I dig the finale.
Below Average:
Live and Let Die. Woof—Moore gets introduced in a real dog of a movie! I am not a fan of the pre-title sequence. Binder’s titles are lame (Head… skull! It’s not even a match cut.) The song does not sound Bondian to me. The action is sluggish and lethargic. Jane Seymour is beautiful, but Solitaire should have been black.
Octopussy. A silly movie with many silly things, but I quite enjoy it.
The World Is Not Enough. This is the point where the series starts to become unenjoyable to me. Banal and boring, with too many machine guns and not enough skullduggery.
Tomorrow Never Dies. Oh, the missed opportunities for what should have been a fine film!
Spectre. (Shouldn’t this be called “S.P.E.C.T.R.E.”?) Some consider this one of the worst, but I think its bad point are merely "lame," and not, you know, aggressively bad. The worst is yet to come.
The Bottom Five:
Diamonds Are Forever. The first total artistic failure in the series, and quite possibly the worst Bond movie of all time. And this was their “comeback” after the relatively disappointing performance and negative reception of OHMSS!
The Man with the Golden Gun. Yikes. This was the first Bond I saw on the big screen, after growing up with Connery on TV. (I still hadn’t seen LALD.) My dad and I walked out of the cinema scratching our heads and wondering, “What the hell was that?!?”
A View to a Kill. At least Roger Moore was (relatively) young and tough in TMWTGG—in this turkey, he looks awful. But the movie is good for some laughs.
Die Another Day. Another disappointing waste of potential, although I quite like the first half.
Quantum of Solace. Nope, I am not on board the revisionist history train that says QOS is secretly a good movie. It is a dog. Bad dog!
24. Die Another Day: Not all bad, as no Bond film is, but firmly my last-place entry for the time being. Brosnan is good in it, and the first half is fairly enjoyable overall, but things are seriously derailed from the ice palace onward.
23. Diamonds Are Forever: The wacky, silly tone doesn't fit Connery's Bond. Wint and Kidd are among the series' best henchmen, but there aren't a lot of other redeeming factors for me with this one. There are some cool parts like the elevator fight and Bond's near-cremation scene.
22. Spectre: Easily my least favorite of Craig's run as Bond. There is some good stuff like the train fight, the PTS, and the Mr. White scene, but Craig himself is a bit off in his performance, plus there is the forced connection to the previous films and awkward Blofeld revelation.
21. The World Is Not Enough: TWINE suffers from a few moments of dullness; for example, my interest sharply plummets after Elektra's death. Christmas Jones may be my very least favorite Bond girl. There are good things though, like Elektra, the epic PTS, Desmond Llewelyn's nice final scene, and bringing Valentine back (I like his character a lot). The action is a seriously mixed bag here.
20. Octopussy: A fun, colorful outing. It's a bit too silly in some areas for my tastes, but overall it's a pleasant romp.
19. Moonraker: Like OP, a bit extreme on the silly a couple times, but still very enjoyable. There are a lot of strong elements here, like the soundtrack, title track, PTS, and locations.
18. You Only Live Twice: Connery's performance is one of the series' least inspired, but YOLT is still a lot of fun. Great music, locations, and action throughout.
17. Tomorrow Never Dies: TND has some of the series' best action, plus Brosnan at his coolest and good Bond girls. The third act is a bit on the weak side.
16. A View to a Kill: Probably the least technically good Bond film that I have the biggest soft spot for. Zorin and May Day are teriffic villains. Moore's age is distracting, but he's still pretty good. Stacey isn't a very good Bond girl.
15. Live and Let Die: A great intro for Moore's Bond. It's one of the series' most unique and funny entries. Very strong with the villains and girls. Some of the action is a bit on the weaker side though.
14. The Man with the Golden Gun: Moore's performance is solid, and Scaramanga is one of the franchise's best villains. There's a lot of fun stuff in this film.
13. The Living Daylights: A really solid Bond film held back by weak villains and a weak third act. I particularly love the PTS and the first half.
12. For Your Eyes Only: Like TLD, the villains aren't the best in FYEO, but the film is really good overall. I personally love the whole PTS, and Moore does his best acting job as 007 here. Cool and unique to see him get a more serious, Fleming-esque outing.
11. Licence to Kill: An awesome revenge Bond outing. The inspiration from the LALD novel is great. Sanchez is a particularly great villain.
10. Quantum of Solace: Intense and fast-paced Bond fun. Craig is so comfortable and good in the role. The villains and girls of this entry are a bit underrated IMO. Also absolutely love Arnold's score.
9. GoldenEye: A modern Bond classic. Brosnan is good, and the elements all come together very nicely (villains, girls, action, and YES, the music!).
8. The Spy Who Loved Me: Moore's finest hour. TSWLM is a fun, epic Bond adventure, packed with great action and memorable characters. Strong stuff all around.
7. Dr. No: The first and still one of the best. Connery is brilliant, and the titular villain is one of the greatest. The strength is in the film's simplicity!
6. Goldfinger: The quintessential Bond movie. It has it all! Always a pleasure to watch this one, where "movie Bond" was truly established.
5. Skyfall: An excellent, dramatic film starring Craig. Silva is a wonderful villain, and Judi Dench's M gets some great attention. I love everything about this one.
4. From Russia with Love: An all-time classic. Perhaps the most Fleming-esque Bond film of all! An incredible collection of villains, a great story, classic Connery Bond, etc. It's not to be missed.
3. Thunderball: The perfect amalgamation of movie and Fleming Bond, getting the best of both styles - like FRWL + GF. Connery at his absolute coolest. This film is just the "coolest" of all the Bonds.
2. On Her Majesty's Secret Service: Lazenby may have only gotten one outing, but it's surely one of the franchise's very finest. He does a great job, and Savalas's Blofeld + Tracy could be my very favorite Bond villain AND Bond girl. Absolute best soundtrack too. Everything works.
1. Casino Royale: Craig nails it from the get-go. All other elements also come together beautifully. It's fantastic!
@Birdleson Thank you so much!
Right, SP at the bottom. Despite interesting locations, Léa Seydoux and a fairly mysterious atmosphere in the first half. Too bad Dan Craig gives the weakest of all the Bond performances so far. Too bad Blofeld is now a whiny father-issued bore. Speaking of too bad and whiny, what is up with that cringe-inducing title song, cried together by Sam Smith? This is the only Bond film that scores lower than 6 out of 10 for me. I'd still say a 5 would be rather generous though, the final act isn't even worth a 3.
25. Diamonds Are Forever (1971)
Diamond-powered space weapon threads don't work well for Bond. Not that they haven't tried. This first attempt is a poorly written and lazily edited film that indulges in the crassness of its main location, Las Vegas. Besides all that, though, I do enjoy some of its dialogue, Barry's fabulous score, Bassey's title song and the outrageously over-the-top killers that are Wint & Kidd. Highlight is most definitely Sir Sean unmasking both because he knows about his wines. I wish the rest of the film was that classy.
24. Casino Royale (1967)
Fails miserably as a Bond film, but did we suspect anything else? That being said, I love the cast here: David Niven, Peter Sellers, Orson Welles, Woody Allen, Ursula Andress, Barbara Bouchet, Joanna Pettet and even French icon Jean-Paul Belmondo (Ouch!). I love Burt Bacharach's score too, and the crazy 1960's-ness that dominates the whole thing is right up my alley. I think CR67 succeeds more as a Bond spoof than SP as a Bond film.
23. Die Another Day (2002)
I feel like I should explain not putting this one dead last. Sure enough, it commits some huge atrocities: juvenile quips, terrible CGI, non-sensical plot. The list goes on. Despite all that, I do like the Hong Kong scenes, the fencing club, Raoul, the Aston v Jag duel, Rosamund Pike and, dare I admit, the Madonna song. Still nowhere near a decent spot on this list, but finishing anywhere above the bottom three is a victory for DAD.
22. Live and Let Die (1973)
A difficult one to rank so low, but this one always felt a bit lacking to me. Baron Samedi and Tee Hee are hilarious though, and David Hedison is a great Felix. My favourite part is at the beginning however, when M visits Bond. My problem with LALD is its locations I suppose. Especially the San Monique settings don't work for me. It all feels so pale. I realise that one of my favourites, LTK, uses USA/Caribbean locations too. I guess it comes down to the purely subjective preference of 80's ambiance over 70's.
21. Skyfall (2012)
Agreed that it looks gorgeous, that the acting is good, that the dialogue is well-written, etc. I just don't feel it. It's all well-made, but it doesn't quite grab my interest. I don't mind straying away from formula once in a while, hence my appreciation of OHMSS, LTK, CR and QOS. But three times in a row is a bit too much for me. The strength of mixing things up, is that you've got something to mix up. Moreover, if you feel the need to act so important, please don't forget your own McGuffin halfway through.
20. For Your Eyes Only (1981)
On paper FYEO should be one of my favourites: 80's Cold War spy thriller, Mediterranean settings (incl. my beloved Italy), charismatic Topol, crossbow-wielding Carole Bouquet, a reasonable amount of Fleming, a disco score and OHMSS references. But it all runs out of steam near the end having never quite excelled in the meantime. It's a serviceable, yet rather unexceptional entry. I would happily put it on, but it wouldn't be my first choice.
19. Never Say Never Again (1983)
Sean Connery is back to have some fun and he's not alone. Klaus Maria Brandauer and Max von Sydow add European class to the proceedings while Bernie Casey brings a fantastic Felix to life and Barbara Carrera is hilariously devilish as Fatima Blush. NSNA misses typical Bond tropes dearly, though it does manage to boast a stellar cast and a French Riviera mood that we haven't had before or since in a 007 flick.
18. Tomorrow Never Dies (1997)
TND is a film with a split personality. The first half features a confident Pierce Brosnan spying his way through Hamburg on excellent David Arnold beats, coming across a former lover and facing a news framing plot relevant even more so almost 25 years after its release. A spectacular HALO-jump later and TND turns into a big noisy shoot-'em-up that feels more like a videogame than a film.
17. You Only Live Twice (1967)
Breathtaking locations, great cinematography, brilliant set design, an epic music score and thrilling stunts. YOLT is spectacular eye-candy and sometimes that's all I'm looking for. I could have done without the whole episode of Bond being disguised as a Japanese fisherman though. It's not only a bit of a dull stretch in an otherwise well-paced film, it's also a bit awkward really.
16. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
Adding the interesting premise of a competing agent to the prototype of YOLT's plot device proves to be a good idea. It doesn't make this a character study, but it does add an extra layer to the fine stunts and pretty imagery, even though they abandon that idea near the end. The oil tanker finale isn't my absolute favourite however, a largely musicfree affair that goes on for a tad too long. But all in all, a fun entry with a great funky score too.
15. Moonraker (1979)
The Lewis Gilbert films are all ranked next to each other. There is a very good reason for that: they are basically the same film. Not that that's a bad thing. It's Bond at its most archetypical, it's the comfort food of the franchise. With a lovely French château, Venice, Rio and the Amazon, this one ranks high amongst the loveliest locales in the series. Ken Adam finishes his Bond career with his strongest work too, I'd say. Pity about some of the childish humour though.
14. Goldfinger (1964)
Here's another one that asks for an explanation. It's certainly not that I don't like GF, in fact I love everything up to Kentucky and I also think it ends on a big high with the Oddjob duel in the iconic Fort Knox set. Having said that, I do think this one takes a nosedive during the ranch scenes, the excellent mint julip exchange notwithstanding. In particular the barn scene sticks out as a sore thumb.
13. Quantum of Solace (2008)
I just don't understand the hate this one gets. I do understand it has issues, namely a pedestrian main villain surrounded by nameless and incompetent henchmen. But there is so much to like here too: the opening chase, the Palio, the floating opera scene, a relevant topic, the dialogue exchanges with Mathis and that fantastic final scene. I would also argue this one features Daniel Craig at his best in the role. As I said, I really don't get the hate.
12. Dr. No (1962)
The Bond series have produced great spectacles, as well as fine spy thrillers and even a few interesting character arcs. DN doesn't quite do any of that and it has some funny sound effects too. DN, however, shines on an entirely different level. It's a time capsule back to 1950's/1960's Jamaica, making it the only film that really feels like you are right there at that place in time where it all started. It's also an intriguing detective tale carried by a stellar Sean Connery performance, of course.
11. The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
I won't argue that TMWTGG is a misunderstood masterpiece. It is not. It does have one of the greatest villains in Christopher Lee, one of the best villain lairs with his island and funhouse, one of the most iconic villain weapons with the legendary golden gun, fantastic Asian locales and an underrated John Barry score. On those accounts I will always like it more than most fans, even though there are also some truly poor moments too.
10. A View to a Kill (1985)
This film is so outrageously 80's that I cannot but love it: the attire, the music, the overall atmosphere. Roger Moore isn't as fit as he used to of course, though his performance doesn't suffer. Neither does his chemistry with Patrick Macnee. The villain duo Walken-Jones is a highlight as well. I could go on: the château, the blimp, the Eiffel Tower, the Golden Gate Bridge, likeable Stacey, KGB seductress Pola Ivanova, stereotypical Aubergine, etc. AVTAK is no high art, but it amuses me tremendously.
9. GoldenEye (1995)
The reason why GE ends so high for me is exactly the same reason as why for others it would end lower: Éric Serra. I'm a big fan of his electro soundscapes outside of Bond, so maybe that's why it's not as hard for this 007 fan to accept it inside the franchise as well. Apart from that though, it helps that GE is also a tightly paced post-Cold War spy extravaganza with amusing characters, naturally.
8. Thunderball (1965)
I would argue TB is Bond at its archetypical best. It has Sean Connery in his prime, it has European beauties, it has an eye-patched villain, it has sharks, it has the DB5, it has underwater action scenes, it has SPECTRE, it has a nuclear world thread, it has witty dialogue, it has an exotic main location, it is mysterious in the first half and spectacular in the second. Sure it's not perfect, but who cares about perfect when you've got Fiona Volpe in a bathtub?
7. Octopussy (1983)
Another late-Rog favourite, and indeed my favourite of the Moore era. Being the only Bond film that takes place around the former Inner German Border, arguably the most Cold War-esque location imaginable, and doing it well, I think on that account alone I feel OP deserves more credit than it usually gets. Additionally, it's a cracking, atmospherical and well-cast spy adventure with competent Bondgirls and amusing villains. Oh and it has Bond in an Alfa Romeo!
6. Casino Royale (2006)
CR's more grounded approach has always been a welcome return to basics during Bondathons. The antithesis of over-the-top, this one brings a human Bond instead of a superhero and has a well-written screenplay instead of an endless parade of oneliners. Based on Fleming's first novel and with Eva Green's stylish Vesper at the centre, it proofs to be a modern classic time and time again.
5. The World Is Not Enough (1999)
Perceived wisdom would have me put this near the bottom. Perceived wisdom would also make me dislike Dr. Jones. I don't do either. Nostalgia and my own eclectic taste puts TWINE in my top 5. It's also there because Pierce gives his most meaty performance as Bond, because Sophie Marceau is awesome and because I think TWINE is a fine mix of complex storytelling and a fun romp. "Fully loaded. I think is the term."
4. From Russia with Love (1963)
This list is entirely subjective, naturally. But if it wasn't I'd argue either this one or OHMSS would end up on top. With Sean Connery's commanding screen presence, an entire squad of memorable foes, a charismatic ally, a superb female co-star, evocative locations, great music and a compelling plot, FRWL hits every single note right and is quite rightly regarded as one of the greats.
3. On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)
For as long as I can remember, I have always been a proud defender of George Lazenby's performance as James Bond. Stylish, confident, athletic and also quite vulnerable. Groundbreaking if you ask me. Pair that with classy Diana Rigg, charming rogues Savalas and Ferzetti, an engaging plot, beautiful scenery, great music, thrilling action and a heartbreaking ending, and you've got yourself a Bond masterpiece.
2. The Living Daylights (1987)
For me the entire post-credits sequence, from the sniper scene to the stuff my orders comment is the best Bond scene ever put to film. Timothy Dalton is Ian Fleming's James Bond, there is no competition. TLD's mix of Cold War espionage behind the Iron Curtain and epic desert spectacle later on is the ultimate blend of literary Bond and cinematic Bond. From plot to music, from cast to stunts, everything just works in TLD.
1. Licence to Kill (1989)
On paper TLD seems more my cup of tea with its Cold War theme, but in all honesty LTK is a more intense experience. From Kamen's excellent gunbarrel drums to Patti LaBelle's great end title song, this film just never lets go. Dalton does a stellar job yet again, a relatable 007 if there ever was one. With a captivating story, excellent stunt work, an undeniable 80's atmosphere, colourful characters (Sanchez! Pam! Dario! Truman-Lodge! And Q of course!), LTK is my favourite (Bond) film.
PART 1
1. TSWLM: I don't know if it was the first Bond film I ever saw, my memory is murky, but I just love everything about it. Fantastic location's, great cinematography. An iconic opening scene. A perfectly balanced performance from Sir Rog between humour and danger. Lovely action scenes. Memorable villainy from Jaws. The only way this could have been 'done better' (wink, wink) was with a John Barry soundtrack. This is Bond done on a epic scale exactly right, something the series has never quite managed since.
2. OHMSS: As perfect as TSWLM was on an epic scale, this is the perfect grounded one. Hardly deviating from Fleming's novel was a surprising and brave choice, considering the way the series headed, and it paid off. Great direction from Peter Hunt, beautiful and atmospheric location shots. The best version of Blofeld. The best Bond girl bar none. Established the long standing tradition of a Bond action scene on ski's (although no film has bettered this in that regard). Probably John Barry's finest Bond score, and one of the best film scores ever, Bond or not. A great gut punch at the end, too. This type of heft has been slightly overused in the Craig era, for me. Here though, as a first for the series, it has huge impact. Finally, the elephant in the room, was of course George Lazenby. He's clearly no De Niro, but he had a great look, and enough presence to carry the burden, without distracting from the film's quality.
3. GE: The perfect 'modern' Bond film, for me. The first time the series became self aware, but without throwing away everything that brought it to the dance. Gives Bond a touch of personal stakes, without letting them overwhelm the formula. Good debut for Broz, and a real shame his era didn't continue in this films vein. An excellent trio of Villain's, too. The only downside, for me, is a pretty weak soundtrack from Eric Sierra, but overall, great stuff.
4. FRWL: Another that wisely stuck to the novel for the most part, and possibly the purest spy thriller of the whole series. Great trio of villains again. Superb plot. What can I say that hasn't already been said about the train fight? Still the most iconic fisticuffs in the whole series 50+ years later..
5. TB: Terence Young's best work in terms of the look and cinematography of the series, still a stunner when watched in HD. For my money this is Connery's and the series overall's, best performance as Bond. He literally swaggers around like he owns the world here. Fiona is the best villainess in the series, to this day. Largo is solid enough, great work from John Barry. Superb gadgetry from Ken Adam. Sure the underwater stuff drags a bit, but when the rest is this good, who cares?
6. CR: A risky, but triumphant reboot for the series, and a great debut from Daniel Craig. Beautiful location shoots, a Bond girl for the ages. They added just enough sizzle to the steak of the novels plot to still make it feel faithful to Fleming. Terrific stuff.
7. FYEO: A nice little potboiler, that feels very Fleming-esque. Far from the beauty we have seen in some of the previous and post films, that actually fits well here. Nice to see Sir Rog get a chance to give a more faithful to the source performance, too. I love the continuity with OHMSS. Only slight criticism's are a frankly crap soundtrack, and a pretty weak villain.