21 word reviews for the 21 Bond Films. Part 1 of 3.
Dr No. – A strong, surprisingly brutal opening to the Bond franchise, confidently establishing the look and feel of Bond for the entire series.
From Russia With Love – More grounded in reality than before, Russia features a great performance from Connery and impressive set pieces, but is also chauvinistic.
Goldfinger – When the franchise took off, thanks to the gadgets, girls and larger than life villain. Just the right side of extravagance.
Thunderball – Wonderful underwater cinematography and fighting; with the action above the surface mixing humour, romance and danger. Enjoyable, if a little formulaic.
You Only Live Twice – Where the series got too big for itself. Loved the volcano scenes as a kid: think they’re a bit OTT now.
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service –Some elements of the plot are wonderfully original and have previously unseen dramatic depth, others are just plain silly. Not great.
Diamond’s Are Forever – Too farcical at times and Connery’s too old, but there are enjoyable moments such as Bond breaking into Willard White’s penthouse.
