5 Best James Bond Movies
As the years go by and new entries accumulate, fans continue to debate the best James Bond movie. The ongoing discussion reveals various favorite titles among the iconic 007 series.
5. GoldenEye
Pierce Brosnan’s debut as 007 faced the daunting challenge of reviving the franchise after a six-year hiatus. This gap occurred after a period that felt stagnant for the series.
Although some references to classic tropes seem heavy-handed now, they fit well within the narrative. Bond’s famed womanizing, heavy drinking, and catchphrases received humorous jabs. Yet, GoldenEye effectively rebooted the character, aligning Bond with the best elements of ‘90s action cinema.
From the start, Brosnan exudes confidence in the lead role. Sean Bean’s portrayal of Alec Trevelyan stands out as one of the greatest Bond villains. Formerly 006, Trevelyan acts as a dark doppelgänger for 007, after failing to secure the Bond role in a prior audition. Despite competition, GoldenEye features the ultimate Q’s lab scene, highlighted by the classic line, "Don’t touch that – that’s my lunch!"
4. Goldfinger
Goldfinger’s extravagant pre-title sequence and its notorious henchman, Oddjob, set high expectations. The Bond girl with the suggestive name, Pussy Galore, and Shirley Bassey’s memorable theme song enhance its appeal. The gadget-filled car and intriguing Q lab scenes serve as foundations for the film’s gripping narrative and compelling torture sequences.
Though not universally deemed the best Bond movie, Goldfinger is the most definitive and influential. While its predecessors laid groundwork for Bond tropes, Goldfinger cemented the established formula. This film marked 007's ascendance as a cultural phenomenon, catapulting the series into unprecedented success. The miniature Aston Martin DB5 toy achieved record sales in 1964.
Without Dr. No and From Russia with Love, the cinematic Bond may not exist. However, Goldfinger's impact ensures its longevity.
3. From Russia With Love
It's arguable, but Sean Connery's second Bond film surpasses Goldfinger in tightness and thrill. A taut Cold War thriller filled with glamour and suspense, this film presents captivating action sequences.
The famous brawl aboard the Orient Express between Bond and Donald "Red" Grant remains groundbreaking. Despite scrutiny, it is a great ensemble cast, with remarkable performances from Pedro Armendáriz as Kerim Bey and Robert Shaw as Grant. Shaw's portrayal stands as a credible threat to Bond, showcasing refined acting talent.
The formidable rosy Klebb, played by Lotte Lenya, and sly chessmaster Kronsteen, played by Vladek Sheybal, add depth to this classic Bond installment.
2. Casino Royale
The competition between Casino Royale and Skyfall for Daniel Craig’s best is intense. However, Casino Royale, released in 2006, fundamentally reshaped Craig's era as 007.
With a tepid response to Die Another Day and initial skepticism surrounding Craig’s casting, the franchise needed reinvention. What followed was an explosion of renewed interest; Bond re-established dominance in blockbuster cinema.
Achieving this meant discarding previously sacred elements—witty quips, gadgets, and the familiar faces of Moneypenny and Q. A revived, complex character emerged, embodied by Craig alongside Eva Green as Vesper Lynd and Mads Mikkelsen as the villainous Le Chiffre.
Drawing from Ian Fleming's first Bond novel, Casino Royale breathed life into an action thriller with grit and suspense. Not only iconic within Craig's era, but many also regard it as one of the best Bond films overall.
1. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
Bond enthusiasts have had decades to reevaluate On Her Majesty's Secret Service, George Lazenby’s sole outing as 007. Once viewed as a misstep that nearly derailed the franchise, it has grown in admiration. Now, it is considered by many as the best Bond film, combining gripping thrills with a heart-wrenching love story.
Lazenby, while often disparaged, provides a unique portrayal of Bond. His character feels more vulnerable and relatable compared to his predecessor. This film showcases 007 falling in love, resigning, and then grappling with devastating loss—a remarkable narrative arc.
Diana Rigg’s vibrant performance as Tracy serves as a perfect on-screen companion for Lazenby. Additionally, Telly Savalas’ imposing Blofeld ultimately proves to be a formidable foe.
As Daniel Craig’s tenure concludes, the franchise’s choice to reference this film illustrates its lasting influence. Incorporating elements such as We Have All The Time In The World further solidifies the legacy of this celebrated installment. Far from being labeled a failure, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service has emerged as the penultimate Bond film.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.
