For a long time, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was the “lost” James Bond film. The sixth in the series, released in 1969, it came out at a time when tastes were changing and the initial Bond-mania of the mid-1960s had arguably peaked. It also didn’t help matters that Sean Connery had left the role following the previous movie, You Only Live Twice, and that producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman decided to go with an inexperienced unknown from Australia, George Lazenby, as the new 007.
Although the film did reasonably well at the box office, with 82 million in total receipts, that was still a drop-off from You Only Live Twice and a fairly steep fall from the heights of Goldfinger and Thunderball. Add to that the fact that Lazenby left the series after finishing his one picture—despite being offered a long-term contract—and you have a...
Although the film did reasonably well at the box office, with 82 million in total receipts, that was still a drop-off from You Only Live Twice and a fairly steep fall from the heights of Goldfinger and Thunderball. Add to that the fact that Lazenby left the series after finishing his one picture—despite being offered a long-term contract—and you have a...
- 1/16/2023
- by Don Kaye
- Den of Geek
Throughout 60 years of James Bond movies, there has been one constant: the music. Stars, directors and writers have come and gone. There has even been one hard reboot (in between "Die Another Day" and "Casino Royale"). But the main theme (credited to Monty Norman) and the scores have maintained the series' aesthetic continuity. Every time you buy a ticket for a Bond film, you know you're going to hear that brassy, syncopated bah-bah-buh before the opening credits hit.
The music, however, serves more than just a tonal purpose. When done well, the scores heighten the audience's emotional investment. Indeed, you could make a very credible argument that the franchise wouldn't have survived its first lead change without a brilliant theme.
The Film, And Music, That Saved James Bond
In the forthcoming documentary "The Sound of 007," which hits Amazon Prime Video on October 5, producer Barbara Broccoli succinctly explains the importance of the films' music,...
The music, however, serves more than just a tonal purpose. When done well, the scores heighten the audience's emotional investment. Indeed, you could make a very credible argument that the franchise wouldn't have survived its first lead change without a brilliant theme.
The Film, And Music, That Saved James Bond
In the forthcoming documentary "The Sound of 007," which hits Amazon Prime Video on October 5, producer Barbara Broccoli succinctly explains the importance of the films' music,...
- 9/23/2022
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Haven’t yet seen all the best old-school vintage naval combat epics? This color & ‘scope thriller has a terrific cast of Brit stars and up-n-comers, can boast excellent visuals and is historically accurate. Alec Guinness captains a ship during the Napoleonic Wars, and finds his duty complicated by a psychopathic top officer (Dirk Bogarde) who usurps authority and sees the crew as fresh meat for his sadistic ideas about discipline. All the tech and art credits are top-tier, plus we get nice supporting perfs from the likes of Anthony Quayle, Nigel Stock, Maurice Denham, Victor Maddern, Tom Bell, and Murray Melvin.
Damn the Defiant!
Blu-ray
Viavision [Imprint] 136
1962 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 101 min. / Street Date June 29, 2022 / H.M.S. Defiant / Available from Viavision / Australian 34.95 / and Amazon US / 34.95
Starring: Alec Guinness, Dirk Bogarde, Maurice Denham, Nigel Stock, Richard Carpenter, Peter Gill, David Robinson, Robin Stewart, Ray Brooks, Peter Greenspan, Anthony Quayle, Tom Bell,...
Damn the Defiant!
Blu-ray
Viavision [Imprint] 136
1962 / Color / 2:35 widescreen / 101 min. / Street Date June 29, 2022 / H.M.S. Defiant / Available from Viavision / Australian 34.95 / and Amazon US / 34.95
Starring: Alec Guinness, Dirk Bogarde, Maurice Denham, Nigel Stock, Richard Carpenter, Peter Gill, David Robinson, Robin Stewart, Ray Brooks, Peter Greenspan, Anthony Quayle, Tom Bell,...
- 7/26/2022
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Monty Norman, the composer behind the iconic James Bond theme, has died at the age of 94.
A statement posted on his official website said, “It is with sadness we share the news that Monty Norman died on 11th July 2022 after a short illness.”
Norman most famously composed the score for “Dr. No,” the 1962 James Bond film starring Sean Connery. His theme for James Bond, as arranged by fellow Englishman John Barry, would go on to become the theme for the entire franchise.
As Norman said on his site, “We recognized we needed a fresh, contemporary sound for the main theme, and in the up-and-coming young John Barry we found a wonderful arranger, so the whole thing worked very well.”
But controversy erupted decades later when Barry claimed authorship of the theme, resulting in Norman suing the Times of London for libel over a 1997 story (“Theme Tune Wrangle Has 007 Shaken and...
A statement posted on his official website said, “It is with sadness we share the news that Monty Norman died on 11th July 2022 after a short illness.”
Norman most famously composed the score for “Dr. No,” the 1962 James Bond film starring Sean Connery. His theme for James Bond, as arranged by fellow Englishman John Barry, would go on to become the theme for the entire franchise.
As Norman said on his site, “We recognized we needed a fresh, contemporary sound for the main theme, and in the up-and-coming young John Barry we found a wonderful arranger, so the whole thing worked very well.”
But controversy erupted decades later when Barry claimed authorship of the theme, resulting in Norman suing the Times of London for libel over a 1997 story (“Theme Tune Wrangle Has 007 Shaken and...
- 7/11/2022
- by Jon Burlingame and Jazz Tangcay
- Variety Film + TV
A Republican congressional candidate praised Adolf Hitler during a radio appearance last year, according to audio revealed by watchdog group Media Matters on Thursday.
Carl Paladino, whose campaign for New York’s 23rd Congressional District is backed by House Republican Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-n.Y.), made the comments to “The r-House Radio Show” host Peter Hunt on Feb. 13, 2021.
Hunt asked Paladino, a Buffalo businessman and former gubernatorial candidate, how to “rouse the population” since many people think voicing their opinion is futile. “How do you get people thinking...
Carl Paladino, whose campaign for New York’s 23rd Congressional District is backed by House Republican Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-n.Y.), made the comments to “The r-House Radio Show” host Peter Hunt on Feb. 13, 2021.
Hunt asked Paladino, a Buffalo businessman and former gubernatorial candidate, how to “rouse the population” since many people think voicing their opinion is futile. “How do you get people thinking...
- 6/9/2022
- by William Vaillancourt
- Rollingstone.com
Director Sidney J. Furie discusses his favorite films he’s watched and re-watched during quarantine with hosts Josh Olson and Joe Dante.
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Dr. Blood’s Coffin (1961)
The Ipcress File (1965) – Howard Rodman’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Appaloosa (1966)
The Naked Runner (1967)
Lady Sings The Blues (1972)
The Entity (1982) – Luca Gaudagnino’s trailer commentary
The Boys in Company C (1978)
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) – John Landis’s trailer commentary, Dennis Cozzalio’s review
Full Metal Jacket (1987)
The Apartment (1960) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
The Best Years Of Our Lives (1946)
Twelve O’Clock High (1949)
A Place In The Sun (1951) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Out Of Africa (1985)
The Last Picture Show (1971) – Mark Pellington’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
Annie Hall (1977)
The Bad And The Beautiful (1952)
Once Upon A Time In Hollywood (2019)
The Tender Bar...
Show Notes: Movies Referenced In This Episode
Dr. Blood’s Coffin (1961)
The Ipcress File (1965) – Howard Rodman’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
The Appaloosa (1966)
The Naked Runner (1967)
Lady Sings The Blues (1972)
The Entity (1982) – Luca Gaudagnino’s trailer commentary
The Boys in Company C (1978)
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) – John Landis’s trailer commentary, Dennis Cozzalio’s review
Full Metal Jacket (1987)
The Apartment (1960) – Dan Ireland’s trailer commentary, Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
The Best Years Of Our Lives (1946)
Twelve O’Clock High (1949)
A Place In The Sun (1951) – Glenn Erickson’s Blu-ray review
Out Of Africa (1985)
The Last Picture Show (1971) – Mark Pellington’s trailer commentary, Randy Fuller’s wine pairing
Annie Hall (1977)
The Bad And The Beautiful (1952)
Once Upon A Time In Hollywood (2019)
The Tender Bar...
- 2/15/2022
- by Kris Millsap
- Trailers from Hell
Not only is the 25th James Bond film “No Time to Die” the last 007 adventure thriller starring Daniel Craig, it’s also the first one directed by an American: Cary Joji Fukunaga. The 44-year-old filmmaker won the Sundance dramatic directing award in 2009 for “Sin Nombre,” was the first Asian-American director to win an Emmy for directing in 2014 for “True Detective” and earned a Peabody in 2015 for “Beasts of No Nation.”
He joins other cutting-edge filmmakers to direct Craig as Bond including Oscar-winning English director Sam Mendes (“American Beauty”) who helmed 2012’s “Skyfall” and 2015’s “Spectre” and indie German filmmaker Marc Forster (2008’s “Quantum of Solace”), who had directed Halle Berry to an Oscar for 2001’s “Monster’s Ball” and Johnny Depp to a nomination for 2004’s “Finding Neverland.”
These three are a far cry from the early Bond directors who were British and had worked their way up the ranks...
He joins other cutting-edge filmmakers to direct Craig as Bond including Oscar-winning English director Sam Mendes (“American Beauty”) who helmed 2012’s “Skyfall” and 2015’s “Spectre” and indie German filmmaker Marc Forster (2008’s “Quantum of Solace”), who had directed Halle Berry to an Oscar for 2001’s “Monster’s Ball” and Johnny Depp to a nomination for 2004’s “Finding Neverland.”
These three are a far cry from the early Bond directors who were British and had worked their way up the ranks...
- 10/8/2021
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
George Lazenby, whose sole turn as James Bond in 1969’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was blessed with the casting of costar Diana Rigg, dispelled those ancient tales of an on-set feud today, writing, ” Much was made of our supposed differences but that was the Press looking for a news story.”
Rigg, who died this morning at the age of 82, played the doomed Contessa Teresa di Vicenzo in the Peter R. Hunt-directed 007 film, earning her praise as one of the best, if not the best, Bond Girl ever. The character didn’t live long though, getting killed off soon after the Bond wedding.
Longer lasting were rumors of discord between Rigg and Lazenby, notably the anecdote that the actress so disliked the actor that she ate garlic before a big kissing scene.
According to an account of the feud’s history published in The Independent, Rigg wrote...
Rigg, who died this morning at the age of 82, played the doomed Contessa Teresa di Vicenzo in the Peter R. Hunt-directed 007 film, earning her praise as one of the best, if not the best, Bond Girl ever. The character didn’t live long though, getting killed off soon after the Bond wedding.
Longer lasting were rumors of discord between Rigg and Lazenby, notably the anecdote that the actress so disliked the actor that she ate garlic before a big kissing scene.
According to an account of the feud’s history published in The Independent, Rigg wrote...
- 9/10/2020
- by Greg Evans
- Deadline Film + TV
Paul Bradshaw Sep 24, 2018
Now that a director has been confirmed for Bond 25, we take a look back at the men who made 007.
This article comes from Den of Geek UK.
Directing a James Bond movie is pretty big deal. Bond 25 was thrown into chaos when Danny Boyle dropped out, and the news that Cary Fukunaga signed on to replace him has made headlines around the world. But it’s only recently that anyone actually cared who was behind the camera on a 007 film.
Partly because big name “auteurs” don’t often make franchise movies, partly because the Bond producers have always aimed for a kind of stylistic consistency to stop anyone putting a particularly big stamp on it, and mostly because 007 has always been more about a dozen other things that don’t have anything to do with the camerawork – most of the men (and they are all...
Now that a director has been confirmed for Bond 25, we take a look back at the men who made 007.
This article comes from Den of Geek UK.
Directing a James Bond movie is pretty big deal. Bond 25 was thrown into chaos when Danny Boyle dropped out, and the news that Cary Fukunaga signed on to replace him has made headlines around the world. But it’s only recently that anyone actually cared who was behind the camera on a 007 film.
Partly because big name “auteurs” don’t often make franchise movies, partly because the Bond producers have always aimed for a kind of stylistic consistency to stop anyone putting a particularly big stamp on it, and mostly because 007 has always been more about a dozen other things that don’t have anything to do with the camerawork – most of the men (and they are all...
- 9/23/2018
- Den of Geek
In case you hadn’t noticed, the filmmakers chosen in recent years to direct James Bond films represent a serious break with the past. The new way all started when the series’ overseers — who tend to weigh these decisions as if they were matters of state — chose Marc Forster, the acclaimed director of “Monster’s Ball” and “Finding Neverland,” to direct “Quantum of Solace.” The trend continued when Sam Mendes, the Oscar-winning director of “American Beauty,” was chosen to make “Skyfall,” and Danny Boyle, the Oscar-winning director of “Slumdog Millionaire,” was chosen to helm Bond 25 (even though he left before he began).
Now, with the choice of Cary Joji Fukunaga, the trend continues. Fukunaga has no Oscars under his belt, but he is, by any standard, an audacious and celebrated filmmaker. His first feature, “Sin Nombre,” took the best director prize at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. He followed that...
Now, with the choice of Cary Joji Fukunaga, the trend continues. Fukunaga has no Oscars under his belt, but he is, by any standard, an audacious and celebrated filmmaker. His first feature, “Sin Nombre,” took the best director prize at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival. He followed that...
- 9/20/2018
- by Owen Gleiberman
- Variety Film + TV
Paul Bradshaw Sep 23, 2018
Now a director has been confirmed for Bond 25, we take a look back at the men who made 007
Directing a James Bond movie is pretty big deal. Bond 25 was thrown into chaos when Danny Boyle dropped out, and the news that Cary Fukunaga signed-on to replace him has made headlines around the world. But it’s only recently that anyone actually cared who was behind the camera on a 007 film.
See related Our pick of the best Nintendo Switch deals Our pick of the best handheld consoles (from the current generation) Our pick of the best projector screens
Partly because big name “auteurs” don’t often make action movies, partly because the Bond producers have always aimed for a kind of stylistic consistency to stop anyone putting a particularly big stamp on it, and mostly because 007 has always been more about a dozen other things...
Now a director has been confirmed for Bond 25, we take a look back at the men who made 007
Directing a James Bond movie is pretty big deal. Bond 25 was thrown into chaos when Danny Boyle dropped out, and the news that Cary Fukunaga signed-on to replace him has made headlines around the world. But it’s only recently that anyone actually cared who was behind the camera on a 007 film.
See related Our pick of the best Nintendo Switch deals Our pick of the best handheld consoles (from the current generation) Our pick of the best projector screens
Partly because big name “auteurs” don’t often make action movies, partly because the Bond producers have always aimed for a kind of stylistic consistency to stop anyone putting a particularly big stamp on it, and mostly because 007 has always been more about a dozen other things...
- 9/20/2018
- Den of Geek
After working on Caboblanco, Thompson moved onto the slasher genre with Happy Birthday to Me (1981). Whilst by no means the best the genre has to offer, Happy Birthday to Me proved to be an enjoyable horror film, and definitely better than some similar films made in the wake of John Carpenters Halloween (1978). Between Caboblanco and 10 to Midnight, Bronson kept himself busy, starring in director Peter Hunt’s Death Hunt (1981), which found the actor sharing the screen once again with Lee Marvin, the first time since working together on The Dirty Dozen. Opening to mixed reviews, Death Hunt is still an excellent old style action movie, and one of Bronson’s best later star vehicles. Death Hunt was followed by Death Wish 2 (1982),...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
[Read the whole post on screenanarchy.com...]...
- 10/16/2017
- Screen Anarchy
Article by Jim Batts, Dana Jung, and Tom Stockman
Lee Marvin rose through the ranks of movie stardom as a character actor, delivering mostly villainous supporting turns in many films before finally graduating to leading roles. Regardless of which side of the law he was on however, he projected a tough-as-nails intensity and a two-fisted integrity which elevated even the slightest material. Born February 19, 1924, in New York City, Marvin quit high school to enter the Marine Corps and while serving in the South Pacific was badly wounded in battle when a machine gun nest shot off part of his buttocks and severed his sciatic nerve. He spent a year in recovery before returning to the U.S. where he began working as a plumber. The acting bug bit after filling in for an ailing summer-stock actor and he studied the art at the New York-based American Theater Wing. Upon making his debut in summer stock,...
Lee Marvin rose through the ranks of movie stardom as a character actor, delivering mostly villainous supporting turns in many films before finally graduating to leading roles. Regardless of which side of the law he was on however, he projected a tough-as-nails intensity and a two-fisted integrity which elevated even the slightest material. Born February 19, 1924, in New York City, Marvin quit high school to enter the Marine Corps and while serving in the South Pacific was badly wounded in battle when a machine gun nest shot off part of his buttocks and severed his sciatic nerve. He spent a year in recovery before returning to the U.S. where he began working as a plumber. The acting bug bit after filling in for an ailing summer-stock actor and he studied the art at the New York-based American Theater Wing. Upon making his debut in summer stock,...
- 8/30/2016
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Back in 2012, our staff decided to group together and come up with a list of the best films in the 007, James Bond franchise. With Spectre rolling out this weekend, we decided to republish the article. Let us know which is your favourite, and be sure to check out our review of Spectre here.
#1: From Russia With Love
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on,...
#1: From Russia With Love
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on,...
- 11/6/2015
- by Ricky da Conceição
- SoundOnSight
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
Written by Richard Maibaum
Directed by Peter Hunt
UK, 1969
To call On Her Majesty’s Secret Service underappreciated is to call the sky blue. Only in the years since the release of Daniel Craig’s introduction to the series, Casino Royale, has Ohmss begun to be reappraised as a realistic, character-driven approach to the Bond series. Its failure at the box office compared to the Connery entries that preceded it led to the producers, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Salzman, returning to the Goldfinger formula of larger than life villains, iconic henchmen, ludicrously elaborate take-over-the-world schemes, and a generally heightened sense to the proceedings, all of which are noticeably absent from Ohmss.
Sean Connery had a rough experience during filming of 1967’s You Only Live Twice. The media scrutiny, long filming periods, and promotional duties caused him to leave the role that had made his career.
Written by Richard Maibaum
Directed by Peter Hunt
UK, 1969
To call On Her Majesty’s Secret Service underappreciated is to call the sky blue. Only in the years since the release of Daniel Craig’s introduction to the series, Casino Royale, has Ohmss begun to be reappraised as a realistic, character-driven approach to the Bond series. Its failure at the box office compared to the Connery entries that preceded it led to the producers, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Salzman, returning to the Goldfinger formula of larger than life villains, iconic henchmen, ludicrously elaborate take-over-the-world schemes, and a generally heightened sense to the proceedings, all of which are noticeably absent from Ohmss.
Sean Connery had a rough experience during filming of 1967’s You Only Live Twice. The media scrutiny, long filming periods, and promotional duties caused him to leave the role that had made his career.
- 11/2/2015
- by Gabriel Bucsko
- SoundOnSight
From Russia With Love
Directed by Terrence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty-three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on, even today.
Spectre’s Persian-stroking nemesis/mastermind Ernest Blofeld makes his first appearance and so does Desmond Llewelyn’s gadget-friendly Q (starting a run that continued until his death in 1999). Screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood return, as does director and editor Terence Young and Peter Hunt. John Barry supplies the fine score by utilizing Monte Norman’s theme,...
Directed by Terrence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty-three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on, even today.
Spectre’s Persian-stroking nemesis/mastermind Ernest Blofeld makes his first appearance and so does Desmond Llewelyn’s gadget-friendly Q (starting a run that continued until his death in 1999). Screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood return, as does director and editor Terence Young and Peter Hunt. John Barry supplies the fine score by utilizing Monte Norman’s theme,...
- 11/2/2015
- by Ricky da Conceição
- SoundOnSight
The most commercially successful Bond film to date is Thunderball. The pic earned over $141 million worldwide, of which more than half was generated domestically in the U.S. The film was such a success, it was remade some 18 years later as Never Say Never Again. This is without a doubt my favourite Bond film (although not the best), and the film that perfected the ‘Bond Formula”. Every key player is back: lead actor Sen Connery, director Terence Young, longtime Bond screenwriter Richard Maibaum, cinematographer Ted Moore, title sequence designer Maurice Binder, and composer John Barry.
11: Thunderball – Opening Title Sequence
Maurice Binder returns to the fold after two films away and creates the quintessential Bond title sequence. The titles of Thunderball are visually striking, showing silhouettes of naked women swimming around against coloured backgrounds. Binder hired two dancers who actually swam about in tanks in disco clubs and convinced them...
11: Thunderball – Opening Title Sequence
Maurice Binder returns to the fold after two films away and creates the quintessential Bond title sequence. The titles of Thunderball are visually striking, showing silhouettes of naked women swimming around against coloured backgrounds. Binder hired two dancers who actually swam about in tanks in disco clubs and convinced them...
- 11/2/2015
- by Ricky da Conceição
- SoundOnSight
Dr. No
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum & Johanna Harwood
1962, UK
Author, Ian Fleming had been seeking out a movie deal for nearly a decade until the rights for his novels were finally bought by producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli. Little did they know they would change the landscape of spy-action cinema forever with the release of Dr. No.
Dr. No was the first James Bond novel turned into a film, though it was the sixth novel in the book series The film was adapted by Wolf Mankowitz (who went uncredited by request, fearing the film would bomb), Johanna Harwood (the first and only women screenwriter of the franchise), Berkeley Mather, and long time contributor Richard Maibaum. Arguably Dr. No is one of the closest cinematic interpretations of any Bond novel in tone and plot. The changes they made were mostly cosmetic save for some minor...
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum & Johanna Harwood
1962, UK
Author, Ian Fleming had been seeking out a movie deal for nearly a decade until the rights for his novels were finally bought by producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli. Little did they know they would change the landscape of spy-action cinema forever with the release of Dr. No.
Dr. No was the first James Bond novel turned into a film, though it was the sixth novel in the book series The film was adapted by Wolf Mankowitz (who went uncredited by request, fearing the film would bomb), Johanna Harwood (the first and only women screenwriter of the franchise), Berkeley Mather, and long time contributor Richard Maibaum. Arguably Dr. No is one of the closest cinematic interpretations of any Bond novel in tone and plot. The changes they made were mostly cosmetic save for some minor...
- 11/1/2015
- by Ricky da Conceição
- SoundOnSight
Bourne and Mission: Impossible, right back to Harry Palmer and Danger Diabolik - meet the many pretenders to James Bond's throne...
Since 1962, the James Bond franchise has come to define the spy genre, for good or ill. More broadly, every thriller and action film that comes out now either uses them as inspiration, or attempts to ignore or re-work the tropes that have come to be associated with the series.
Coming off the release of Kingsman: The Secret Service, and with the release of a new Bond film this year, now seems like the perfect time to take a look at a sample of the films which have been inspired by James Bond — either as homages, parodies or reactions.
The Ipcress File (1965)
Produced by James Bond producer Harry Saltzman as a more grounded alternative to the largesse of Bond, The Ipcress File is more concerned with the intricacies of real spy-work — the endless paperwork,...
Since 1962, the James Bond franchise has come to define the spy genre, for good or ill. More broadly, every thriller and action film that comes out now either uses them as inspiration, or attempts to ignore or re-work the tropes that have come to be associated with the series.
Coming off the release of Kingsman: The Secret Service, and with the release of a new Bond film this year, now seems like the perfect time to take a look at a sample of the films which have been inspired by James Bond — either as homages, parodies or reactions.
The Ipcress File (1965)
Produced by James Bond producer Harry Saltzman as a more grounded alternative to the largesse of Bond, The Ipcress File is more concerned with the intricacies of real spy-work — the endless paperwork,...
- 5/3/2015
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
Back in 1991, the Criterion Collection released the three earliest James Bond movies on laserdisc: Dr. No, From Russia with Love, and Goldfinger. Like any Criterion release, these laserdiscs were flush with special features, including an assembled commentary track for each film hosted by Bruce Eder. However, shortly after the release, Eon Productions requested that the company recall all the unsold product. The discs were re-released without the special features, including those commentary tracks. Once MGM released their own DVDs of the Bond films, they had installed their own commentaries. There has been a lot of speculation as to why these commentaries were banned from the marketplace (including possible inflammatory language used, unsavory stories that might be considered offensive to parties involved and releasing sensitive production information). However, now thanks to the magic of the Internet, you don’t have to pay hundreds of dollars and secure an old laserdisc player to listen to the commentaries. They...
- 11/6/2014
- by Kevin Carr
- FilmSchoolRejects.com
By Todd Garbarini
Director Peter Hunt’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. Actor George Lazenby, who donned the role of Bond, James Bond, for this singular film will be appearing for a Q and A at the screening on Tuesday, July 8, 2014. The event will be held at the Landmark Theatre, 10850 West Pico at Westwood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. From the press release:
James Bond goes undercover in the treacherous Swiss Alps in this underrated, highly entertaining, action-packed epic filled with artillery-laden ski pursuits, incredible stunts and nonstop thrills! George Lazenby (in his only appearance as James Bond) leaps into the role of Agent 007 with supreme confidence and undeniable charisma, even finding love with the beautiful and seductive Tracy Di Vicenzo (Diana Rigg). But first Bond must stop evil genius Blofeld (Telly Savalas) from releasing a germ warfare plot that could kill millions! Directed by Peter R. Hunt (Gold,...
Director Peter Hunt’s On Her Majesty’s Secret Service celebrates its 45th anniversary this year. Actor George Lazenby, who donned the role of Bond, James Bond, for this singular film will be appearing for a Q and A at the screening on Tuesday, July 8, 2014. The event will be held at the Landmark Theatre, 10850 West Pico at Westwood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA. From the press release:
James Bond goes undercover in the treacherous Swiss Alps in this underrated, highly entertaining, action-packed epic filled with artillery-laden ski pursuits, incredible stunts and nonstop thrills! George Lazenby (in his only appearance as James Bond) leaps into the role of Agent 007 with supreme confidence and undeniable charisma, even finding love with the beautiful and seductive Tracy Di Vicenzo (Diana Rigg). But first Bond must stop evil genius Blofeld (Telly Savalas) from releasing a germ warfare plot that could kill millions! Directed by Peter R. Hunt (Gold,...
- 6/19/2014
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
By Lee Pfeiffer
Timeless Media have released the epic 1976 adventure film Shout at the Devil as a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. The movie, produced by Michael Klinger and directed by Peter Hunt, is an big budget affair very much in the style of John Huston's The Man Who Would Be King, which was released the previous year. Both films follow the antics of a couple of charismatic rogues in exotic settings. The film is based on the novel by author Wilbur Smith, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The movie was shot in between Roger Moore's second and third James Bond films, The Man With the Golden Gun and The Spy Who Loved Me and boasts a "who's who" of Eon Productions talent. Peter Hunt had edited the early Bond films and directed On Her Majesty's Secret Service. Ironically, Moore and Hunt never worked on a 007 film together but in...
Timeless Media have released the epic 1976 adventure film Shout at the Devil as a Blu-ray/DVD combo pack. The movie, produced by Michael Klinger and directed by Peter Hunt, is an big budget affair very much in the style of John Huston's The Man Who Would Be King, which was released the previous year. Both films follow the antics of a couple of charismatic rogues in exotic settings. The film is based on the novel by author Wilbur Smith, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The movie was shot in between Roger Moore's second and third James Bond films, The Man With the Golden Gun and The Spy Who Loved Me and boasts a "who's who" of Eon Productions talent. Peter Hunt had edited the early Bond films and directed On Her Majesty's Secret Service. Ironically, Moore and Hunt never worked on a 007 film together but in...
- 3/14/2014
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Los Angeles-based film editor Vashi Nedomansky writes about visual effects, low budget filmmaking and editing techniques on his blog. Recently, he wrote about the innovative cinematography in Sidney J. Furie's spy thriller "The Ipcress File." Indiewire is republishing his post below. In 1965, Sidney J. Furie directed the spy thriller "The Ipcress File" starring a young Michael Caine. Producer Harry Saltzman used the same core production team he employed on "Dr. No" (1962), "From Russia with Love" (1963) and "Goldfinger" (1964). Editor Peter Hunt, Production Designer Ken Adam and Composer John Barry gave this film a stylized, signature look and sound, one that was the antithesis of James Bond. Furie and Czech cinematographer Otto Heller redefined their visual vocabulary by deciding to shoot as much of the film as possible through obstructions or foreground objects. They did this on 100 separate shots. In the past, a large foreground object usually meant it was the focus of.
- 2/4/2014
- by Indiewire
- Indiewire
Jean Kent: ‘The Browning Version’ 1951, Gainsborough folds (photo: Jean Kent in ‘The Browning Version,’ with Michael Redgrave) (See previous post: “Jean Kent: Gainsborough Pictures Film Star Dead at 92.”) Seemingly stuck in Britain, Jean Kent’s other important leads of the period came out in 1948: John Paddy Carstairs’ Alfred Hitchcock-esque thriller Sleeping Car to Trieste (1948), with spies on board the Orient Express, and Gordon Parry’s ensemble piece Bond Street. Following two minor 1950 comedies, Her Favorite Husband / The Taming of Dorothy and The Reluctant Widow / The Inheritance, Kent’s movie stardom was virtually over, though she would still have one major film role in store. In what is probably her best remembered and most prestigious effort, Jean Kent played Millie Crocker-Harris, the unsympathetic, adulterous wife of unfulfilled teacher Michael Redgrave, in Anthony Asquith’s 1951 film version of Terence Rattigan’s The Browning Version — a Javelin Films production...
- 12/4/2013
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
News.
Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel will open the 64th Berlinale on February 6th, 2014. The 7th Russian Film Festival has officially kicked off in London, celebrating "the most illustrious new Russian films, documentaries and animation". You can browse their program here. Joaquim Pinto's What Now? Remind Me has taken the top prize at DocLisboa. Other winners include Pippo Delbono's Sangue, and Gonçalo Tocha's The Mother and the Sea. One of our impassioned community members, Risselada, has started a very cool project in our forum:
"You are all invited to participate in a project to collectively create, discuss, and perpetually revise a list of our top films as the Mubi forum community. The project is intended to provide a venue for us to discover great films, discuss our favorite films, and create a list of films that will hopefully express the varied cinematic tastes of our many knowledgeable forum users.
Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel will open the 64th Berlinale on February 6th, 2014. The 7th Russian Film Festival has officially kicked off in London, celebrating "the most illustrious new Russian films, documentaries and animation". You can browse their program here. Joaquim Pinto's What Now? Remind Me has taken the top prize at DocLisboa. Other winners include Pippo Delbono's Sangue, and Gonçalo Tocha's The Mother and the Sea. One of our impassioned community members, Risselada, has started a very cool project in our forum:
"You are all invited to participate in a project to collectively create, discuss, and perpetually revise a list of our top films as the Mubi forum community. The project is intended to provide a venue for us to discover great films, discuss our favorite films, and create a list of films that will hopefully express the varied cinematic tastes of our many knowledgeable forum users.
- 11/7/2013
- by Adam Cook
- MUBI
Sam Mendes directed the biggest James Bond film of all-time at the worldwide box office, last year's mega-hit "Skyfall" brought in over $1.1 billion globally, but he won't be back for an encore.
Mendes confirmed to Empire magazine that although producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli offered him the gig of directing the as-yet-untitled Bond 24, he has other commitments.
"It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara's very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie," Mendes told the mag. "Directing 'Skyfall' was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theater and other commitments, including productions of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and 'King Lear,' that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond."
In the early days of Bond, only a handful of directors were trusted with the franchise. Terence Young...
Mendes confirmed to Empire magazine that although producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli offered him the gig of directing the as-yet-untitled Bond 24, he has other commitments.
"It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael and Barbara's very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie," Mendes told the mag. "Directing 'Skyfall' was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theater and other commitments, including productions of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' and 'King Lear,' that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond."
In the early days of Bond, only a handful of directors were trusted with the franchise. Terence Young...
- 3/6/2013
- by editorial@zap2it.com
- Pop2it
Goldfinger. GoldenEye. The Man with the Golden Gun. The world's most famous Martini drinker (shaken not stirred, naturally) has long been synonymous with that most precious and coveted of metals, but given his illustrious half century on the cinema screen there's one area in which gold has eluded him time and again – the Oscars.
Prior to last year's Skyfall (2012) the fifty year old, 24 movie series had garnered just nine nominations, two of which bagged 007 a statue at the 1965 Academy Awards for different films. The Best Effects, Sound Effects award was given to Norman Wanstall for Goldfinger (1964) and John Stears walked off with the Best Effects, Special Visual Effects Oscar for Thunderball (1965).
Though U2 were second choice for the job after the Rolling Stones had turned down a request to come up with a song, Bono was particularly pleased to land the gig as he'd spent his honeymoon at Ian Fleming's house in Jamaica.
Prior to last year's Skyfall (2012) the fifty year old, 24 movie series had garnered just nine nominations, two of which bagged 007 a statue at the 1965 Academy Awards for different films. The Best Effects, Sound Effects award was given to Norman Wanstall for Goldfinger (1964) and John Stears walked off with the Best Effects, Special Visual Effects Oscar for Thunderball (1965).
Though U2 were second choice for the job after the Rolling Stones had turned down a request to come up with a song, Bono was particularly pleased to land the gig as he'd spent his honeymoon at Ian Fleming's house in Jamaica.
- 2/9/2013
- Shadowlocked
Concluding a very successful James bond marathon, comes our list of the very best 007 films, as chosen by the Sound On Sight staff. In just 30 days, we managed to publish over 40 articles and reviews, making it our most successful monthly movie club to date. I’d like to once again thank everyone who participated and furthermore, thank everyone who voted for having good taste. I cannot argue with the final results. These are indeed the best Bond films. Enjoy!
#1: From Russia With Love
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although...
#1: From Russia With Love
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although...
- 12/3/2012
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
From Russia With Love
Directed by Terrence Stamp
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on, even today.
Spectre’s Persian-stroking nemesis/mastermind Ernest Blofeld makes his first appearance (even if he’s not referred to by that name), and so does Desmond Llewelyn’s gadget-friendly Q (starting a run that continued until his death in 1999). Screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood return as does director and editor Terence Young and Peter Hunt.
Directed by Terrence Stamp
Written by Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood
1963, UK
50 years later, and with twenty three “official” entries, From Russia With Love represents the very best of the Bond franchise. Skyfall is the closest to be considered, at best – almost equal to what was achieved in ’64 – but From Russia With Love is still unparalleled. Although it is the second in the series, and although it feels like no Bond film that followed, it is the film that solidifies all the Bond elements into a formula – a template that carries on, even today.
Spectre’s Persian-stroking nemesis/mastermind Ernest Blofeld makes his first appearance (even if he’s not referred to by that name), and so does Desmond Llewelyn’s gadget-friendly Q (starting a run that continued until his death in 1999). Screenwriters Richard Maibaum and Johanna Harwood return as does director and editor Terence Young and Peter Hunt.
- 11/29/2012
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
Interview conducted by and copyright Edward Gross For Part One Of This Interview, Click Here. Media Geek: From your point of view, how did production of From Russia With Love go? Peter Hunt: It was the third film of the deal made between the producers and United Artists. Dr. No was a big success, even Call Me Bawana wasn't a bad success. Bob Hope once told me that it was the only one of his films at that time that had made him money. We were in great, confident spirits at that time, and while we couldn't go mad, I don't think there was a problem regarding production or money. If we needed another day or some extra shots, we got them and did them. So the production was a far better laid out production, although it was entirely the same crew. I think that's what happened, and that...
- 11/10/2012
- ComicBookMovie.com
On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
Written by Richard Maibaum
Directed by Peter Hunt
UK, 1969
To call On Her Majesty’s Secret Service underappreciated is to call the sky blue. Only in the years since the release of Daniel Craig’s introduction to the series, Casino Royale, has Ohmss begun to be reappraised as a realistic, character-driven approach to the Bond series. Its failure at the box office compared to the Connery entries that preceded it led to the producers, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Salzman, returning to the Goldfinger formula of larger than life villains, iconic henchmen, ludicrously elaborate take-over-the-world schemes, and a generally heightened sense to the proceedings, all of which are noticeably absent from Ohmss.
Sean Connery had a rough experience during filming of 1967′s You Only Live Twice. The media scrutiny, long filming periods, and promotional duties caused him to leave the role that had made his career.
Written by Richard Maibaum
Directed by Peter Hunt
UK, 1969
To call On Her Majesty’s Secret Service underappreciated is to call the sky blue. Only in the years since the release of Daniel Craig’s introduction to the series, Casino Royale, has Ohmss begun to be reappraised as a realistic, character-driven approach to the Bond series. Its failure at the box office compared to the Connery entries that preceded it led to the producers, Albert “Cubby” Broccoli and Harry Salzman, returning to the Goldfinger formula of larger than life villains, iconic henchmen, ludicrously elaborate take-over-the-world schemes, and a generally heightened sense to the proceedings, all of which are noticeably absent from Ohmss.
Sean Connery had a rough experience during filming of 1967′s You Only Live Twice. The media scrutiny, long filming periods, and promotional duties caused him to leave the role that had made his career.
- 11/6/2012
- by Gabriel Bucsko
- SoundOnSight
Dr. No
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum & Johanna Harwood
1962, UK
Author Ian Fleming had been seeking out a movie deal for nearly a decade until the rights for his novels were finally bought by producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli. Little did they know they would change the landscape of spy-action cinema forever with the release of Dr. No.
Dr. No was the first James Bond novel turned into a film, though it was the sixth novel in the book series The film was adapted by Wolf Mankowitz (who went uncredited by request, fearing the film would bomb), Johanna Harwood (the first and only women screenwriter of the franchise), Berkeley Mather, and long time contributor Richard Maibaum. Arguably Dr. No is one of the closest cinematic interpretations of any Bond novel in tone and plot. The changes they made were mostly cosmetic save for some minor...
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Richard Maibaum & Johanna Harwood
1962, UK
Author Ian Fleming had been seeking out a movie deal for nearly a decade until the rights for his novels were finally bought by producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli. Little did they know they would change the landscape of spy-action cinema forever with the release of Dr. No.
Dr. No was the first James Bond novel turned into a film, though it was the sixth novel in the book series The film was adapted by Wolf Mankowitz (who went uncredited by request, fearing the film would bomb), Johanna Harwood (the first and only women screenwriter of the franchise), Berkeley Mather, and long time contributor Richard Maibaum. Arguably Dr. No is one of the closest cinematic interpretations of any Bond novel in tone and plot. The changes they made were mostly cosmetic save for some minor...
- 11/2/2012
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
Matt Spaiser analyses the suits of George Lazenby’s James Bond in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service and draws an interesting comparison with Daniel Craig in Skyfall.
James Bond fans know George Lazenby as the man who played Bond in one of the best films of the series, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Before Bond, Lazenby was a car salesman, a mechanic and a model. Except for in a few commercials, he was not an actor. Despite his limited acting experience, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was still an excellent film due to its great story, capable director and talented cast. From his modelling days, Lazenby knew how to wear clothes and director Peter Hunt brought his own fresh new fashion sense to James Bond. Lazenby’s suits had an increased English flair and were at the height of fashion in 1969.
The 1969 fashion in On Her Majesty...
James Bond fans know George Lazenby as the man who played Bond in one of the best films of the series, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. Before Bond, Lazenby was a car salesman, a mechanic and a model. Except for in a few commercials, he was not an actor. Despite his limited acting experience, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service was still an excellent film due to its great story, capable director and talented cast. From his modelling days, Lazenby knew how to wear clothes and director Peter Hunt brought his own fresh new fashion sense to James Bond. Lazenby’s suits had an increased English flair and were at the height of fashion in 1969.
The 1969 fashion in On Her Majesty...
- 10/12/2012
- by Contributor
- Clothes on Film
Since Sean Connery first uttered the catchphrase "Bond... James Bond" in 1962's Dr. No, there have been six actors hired to play Britain's most notorious spy, who is celebrating his golden anniversary. Yesterday marked 50 years of Bond since Dr. No first entered theaters, and the secret agent is doing better than ever. A new Blu-Ray boxed set of the 22 James Bond films was recently released, and the documentary Everything or Nothing: The Untold Story of 007 debuted yesterday on Epix, both of which help set the stage for the upcoming Skyfall, Bond's 23rd adventure and current Bon Daniel Craig's third movie as the character.
Only one actor has the distinction of playing James Bond for a single movie and that's George Lazenby. Back in 1967, Connery had retired as Bond, leaving producers Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman and director Peter R. Hunt to search for another actor. Enter the Australian newcomer who,...
Only one actor has the distinction of playing James Bond for a single movie and that's George Lazenby. Back in 1967, Connery had retired as Bond, leaving producers Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman and director Peter R. Hunt to search for another actor. Enter the Australian newcomer who,...
- 10/6/2012
- by Ryan Gowland
- Reelzchannel.com
Cinema Retro has received the following press release:
London Film Memorabilia Convention
www.londonfilmmeorabiliaconvention.co.uk
At Central Hall Westminster – Saturday September the 22nd ( 10 am – 5 pm )
A celebration of the quintessential James Bond film!
Key members of the cast and crew, reunite for a one day and one-off unique event!
With over 100 sellers from four continents coming to London for the day. Selling Goldfinger and other original James Bond film memorabilia , plus general film memorabilia from the silents to the latest releases.
One of the worlds largest collections of James Bond film memorabilia ever assembled up for sale!
Plus vintage James Bond collectable retro toys and games!
The special guests on the day include –
Sir Ken Adam Honor Blackman Shirley Eaton Tania Mallett Margaret Nolan Caron Gardner Burt Kwouk Norman Wanstall
A special Sir Ken Adam retrospective with Sir Christopher Frayling An Honor Blackman retrospective show Goldfinger Memories – The Golden...
London Film Memorabilia Convention
www.londonfilmmeorabiliaconvention.co.uk
At Central Hall Westminster – Saturday September the 22nd ( 10 am – 5 pm )
A celebration of the quintessential James Bond film!
Key members of the cast and crew, reunite for a one day and one-off unique event!
With over 100 sellers from four continents coming to London for the day. Selling Goldfinger and other original James Bond film memorabilia , plus general film memorabilia from the silents to the latest releases.
One of the worlds largest collections of James Bond film memorabilia ever assembled up for sale!
Plus vintage James Bond collectable retro toys and games!
The special guests on the day include –
Sir Ken Adam Honor Blackman Shirley Eaton Tania Mallett Margaret Nolan Caron Gardner Burt Kwouk Norman Wanstall
A special Sir Ken Adam retrospective with Sir Christopher Frayling An Honor Blackman retrospective show Goldfinger Memories – The Golden...
- 9/4/2012
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
For the next 22 weeks, MTV Movies Blog will be running what we call the Bond-a-Thond. Every Wednesday we're taking a look back at a single (official) Bond film, giving you the vitals and seeing how it holds up, right up until the release of "Skyfall" on November 9. Feel free to watch along with us and share your thoughts or just kick back and enjoy the Bond.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)
Plot: After his first face-to-face run-in with Blofeld, Bond tracks the Spectre mastermind to the Swiss alps, where he plots to once again hold the world at randsom.
Title Meaning: Bond briefly takes a leave from MI6, but returns by the end of the film.
Bond: Australian model George Lazenby, making his only appearance as 007
Villain: Telly Savalas, TV's Kojak, replaces Donald Pleasance, as Ernst Stavro Blofeld.
Bond Girl: Contessa Teresa "Tracy" di Vicenzo, daughter of Marc-Ange Draco, head...
On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)
Plot: After his first face-to-face run-in with Blofeld, Bond tracks the Spectre mastermind to the Swiss alps, where he plots to once again hold the world at randsom.
Title Meaning: Bond briefly takes a leave from MI6, but returns by the end of the film.
Bond: Australian model George Lazenby, making his only appearance as 007
Villain: Telly Savalas, TV's Kojak, replaces Donald Pleasance, as Ernst Stavro Blofeld.
Bond Girl: Contessa Teresa "Tracy" di Vicenzo, daughter of Marc-Ange Draco, head...
- 7/19/2012
- by Kevin P. Sullivan
- MTV Movies Blog
James Bond 007 Declassified File #6: "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" This series will trace the cinema history of James Bond, while also examining Ian Fleming's original novels as source material and examining how faithful (or not) the films have been to his work. Directed by Peter Hunt Screenplay by Richard Maibaum Produced by Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli Characters / Cast James Bond / George Lazenby Countess Tracy di Vicenzo / Diana Rigg Ernst Stavro Blofeld / Telly Savalas Marc-Ange Draco / Gabriele Ferzetti Irma Bunt / Ilse Steppat Sir Hilary Bray / George Baker Grunther / Yuri Borienko Shaun...
- 6/19/2012
- by Drew McWeeny
- Hitfix
We cannot begin to tell you how excited we are that this collection will be out in time for the holiday shopping season. An amazing adrenaline-fueled time capsule, it will give James Bond fans a treat as all their favorite actors, stunts, gadgets, and Bond Girls are in high definition in a complete set. Given the excitement earlier this week when the Skyfall trailer hit, it’s clear the appetitie for 007 has yet to wane. Here are the official press release details:
All the Bonds. All the girls. All the action. All in high-definition. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment mark James Bond’s monumental golden anniversary with the release of Bond 50, the complete Bond experience showcasing all 22 classic films on Blu-ray together for the first time ever, neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set. The collection will be available beginning September 24 in the United Kingdom and...
All the Bonds. All the girls. All the action. All in high-definition. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment mark James Bond’s monumental golden anniversary with the release of Bond 50, the complete Bond experience showcasing all 22 classic films on Blu-ray together for the first time ever, neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set. The collection will be available beginning September 24 in the United Kingdom and...
- 5/26/2012
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
James Bond is by far my favorite spy. I grew up watching these movies, and still enjoy watching marathons when they are on TV. All 22 James Bond movies are arriving on Blu-ray for the first time on September 24 in the UK and September 25 in the U.S.
These discs will have tons of amazing content, keep reading for all the details.
Here is the official press release:
All the Bonds. All the girls. All the action. All in high-definition. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment mark James Bond’s monumental golden anniversary with the release of Bond 50, the complete Bond experience showcasing all 22 classic films on Blu-ray together for the first time ever, neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set. The collection will be available beginning September 24 in the United Kingdom and September 25 in North America with additional international markets to follow that week. Bond 50 marks the...
These discs will have tons of amazing content, keep reading for all the details.
Here is the official press release:
All the Bonds. All the girls. All the action. All in high-definition. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment mark James Bond’s monumental golden anniversary with the release of Bond 50, the complete Bond experience showcasing all 22 classic films on Blu-ray together for the first time ever, neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set. The collection will be available beginning September 24 in the United Kingdom and September 25 in North America with additional international markets to follow that week. Bond 50 marks the...
- 5/22/2012
- by Tiberius
- GeekTyrant
All the Bonds. All the girls. All the action. All in high-definition. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment mark James Bond.s monumental golden anniversary with the release of Bond 50, the complete Bond experience showcasing all 22 classic films on Blu-ray together for the first time ever, neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set. The collection will be available beginning September 24 in the United Kingdom and September 25 in North America with additional international markets to follow that week. Bond 50 marks the debut of nine James Bond films previously unavailable in high definition Blu-ray and comes with a dossier of more than 122 hours of bonus features.
Set for release just prior to the theatrical premiere of Skyfall, Bond 50 will offer a look at the latest Bond film through videoblogs shot with the cast and crew. The Bond 50 collection also provides two all-new pieces that spotlight the history of 007. .The...
Set for release just prior to the theatrical premiere of Skyfall, Bond 50 will offer a look at the latest Bond film through videoblogs shot with the cast and crew. The Bond 50 collection also provides two all-new pieces that spotlight the history of 007. .The...
- 5/21/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Blu-ray Release Date: Sept. 25, 2012
Price: Blu-ray $299.99
Studio: MGM Home Entertainment/20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
MGM’s celebration of James Bond’s 50th anniversary includes this collection, which includes all 22 action films in the 007 series, a few new special features and promotion for the 23rd movie, Skyfall.
The Bond 50 set also represents the only collection with all the movies on high-definition Blu-ray. But it still doesn’t have Never Say Never Again, the 1983 unofficial Bond movie, although the set does have Thunderball, which is the same story (and Sean Connery even stars in both as the celebrated British spy).
Back in 2007, the James Bond Ultimate Collector’s Set arrived on DVD, containing all the franchise’s films at that time. The Bond 50 box includes everything in that DVD set, plus 2008′s Quantum of Solace, but all in Blu-ray.
The new special features on Bond 50 are:
“The World of Bond” montage of five decades of 007 thrills,...
Price: Blu-ray $299.99
Studio: MGM Home Entertainment/20th Century Fox Home Entertainment
MGM’s celebration of James Bond’s 50th anniversary includes this collection, which includes all 22 action films in the 007 series, a few new special features and promotion for the 23rd movie, Skyfall.
The Bond 50 set also represents the only collection with all the movies on high-definition Blu-ray. But it still doesn’t have Never Say Never Again, the 1983 unofficial Bond movie, although the set does have Thunderball, which is the same story (and Sean Connery even stars in both as the celebrated British spy).
Back in 2007, the James Bond Ultimate Collector’s Set arrived on DVD, containing all the franchise’s films at that time. The Bond 50 box includes everything in that DVD set, plus 2008′s Quantum of Solace, but all in Blu-ray.
The new special features on Bond 50 are:
“The World of Bond” montage of five decades of 007 thrills,...
- 5/21/2012
- by Sam
- Disc Dish
If you know (or are) a fan of James Bond films, especially if you’re looking to expand your Blu-Ray collection, you’ll want to mark your calendars for September 25th. The full collection, along with some great bonus features, will be released as Bond 50, to celebrate 50 years of James Bond.
Beyond getting all 22 films, which come with over 100 hours of bonus features, there will also be an additional disc of bonuses, with all new featurettes, including The World of Bond, a Pop-Up Trivia optional ride through the entire franchise. While any 22-movie set is unlikely to come with an “automatic purchase” price tag, this is one that is sure to tempt quite a few fans. The entire set of Bond films is hard to pass up, and with the nearly unbelievable treasure trove of bonuses, it really is a collection that kicks up the value.
Take a look below at the full details,...
Beyond getting all 22 films, which come with over 100 hours of bonus features, there will also be an additional disc of bonuses, with all new featurettes, including The World of Bond, a Pop-Up Trivia optional ride through the entire franchise. While any 22-movie set is unlikely to come with an “automatic purchase” price tag, this is one that is sure to tempt quite a few fans. The entire set of Bond films is hard to pass up, and with the nearly unbelievable treasure trove of bonuses, it really is a collection that kicks up the value.
Take a look below at the full details,...
- 5/21/2012
- by Marc Eastman
- AreYouScreening.com
MGM and 20th Century Fox have announced what is sure to be the ultimate blu-ray collection for James Bond fans, in the form of Bond 50, and unprecedented 23-disc blu-ray set collecting all of the Bond films to date...plus over 100 hours of special features.
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
- 5/21/2012
- by feeds@themoviepool.com (Jordan Maison)
- Cinelinx
MGM and 20th Century Fox have announced what is sure to be the ultimate blu-ray collection for James Bond fans, in the form of Bond 50, and unprecedented 23-disc blu-ray set collecting all of the Bond films to date...plus over 100 hours of special features.
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
- 5/21/2012
- by feeds@themoviepool.com (Jordan Maison)
- Cinelinx
MGM and 20th Century Fox have announced what is sure to be the ultimate blu-ray collection for James Bond fans, in the form of Bond 50, and unprecedented 23-disc blu-ray set collecting all of the Bond films to date...plus over 100 hours of special features.
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
The 50th Anniversary is coming up for the James Bond franchise, and of course the studios aren't going to let that pass without something major to give to the fans. Thus, we have the announcement for Bond 50. This collection, is absolutely huge. It's got all 22 current Bond films in HD on blu-ray, and includes a 23rd bonus disc with new special features. That's a lot of damn films, and simply a massive collection.
Outside of all of that, another thing that should have fans excited is that it this is the first time 9 of these films have been available in high-definition. The set is scheduled to release on September 25th,...
- 5/21/2012
- by feeds@themoviepool.com (Jordan Maison)
- Cinelinx
To mark the 50th Anniversary of one of the most successful movie franchises of all time and as James Bond prepares for his 23rd official outing in Skyfall later this year, I have been tasked with taking a retrospective look at the films that turned author Ian Fleming’s creation into one of the most recognised and iconic characters in film history.
After the phenomenal box-office success of Thunderball in 1965 the Bond series producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman were left looking for an out of this world adventure for Bond’s fifth outing, You Only Live Twice. When Richard Maibaum the screenwriter of all the previous films became unavailable the producers hired popular short story and children’s writer Roald Dahl to pen the screenplay. Dahl had been a close friend of Fleming but described the original novel as “Fleming’s worst book”. Taking only a handful of ideas from the story,...
After the phenomenal box-office success of Thunderball in 1965 the Bond series producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman were left looking for an out of this world adventure for Bond’s fifth outing, You Only Live Twice. When Richard Maibaum the screenwriter of all the previous films became unavailable the producers hired popular short story and children’s writer Roald Dahl to pen the screenplay. Dahl had been a close friend of Fleming but described the original novel as “Fleming’s worst book”. Taking only a handful of ideas from the story,...
- 1/15/2012
- by Chris Wright
- Obsessed with Film
A line-up of Eon greats at the National History Museum in 2002, where Syd was promoting his autobiography. (L to R): Ken Adam, Syd Cain, Peter Lamont and Michael G. Wilson. (Photo copyright Dave Worrall. All rights reserved).
By Lee Pfeiffer
Syd Cain, the respected art director and production designer, has died at age 93. Syd's death is a personal loss to many of us at Cinema Retro who considered him a friend. His remarkable career included a long association with the James Bond films. He began on the very first film, Dr. No, in 1962 as art director, working with the legendary production designer Ken Adam. When Adam wasn't available for the second film, From Russia With Love, Syd took over for the art direction and production design duties. Syd was billed as the production designer for the 1969 Bond classic On Her Majesty's Secret Service in 1969, playing a crucial role in...
By Lee Pfeiffer
Syd Cain, the respected art director and production designer, has died at age 93. Syd's death is a personal loss to many of us at Cinema Retro who considered him a friend. His remarkable career included a long association with the James Bond films. He began on the very first film, Dr. No, in 1962 as art director, working with the legendary production designer Ken Adam. When Adam wasn't available for the second film, From Russia With Love, Syd took over for the art direction and production design duties. Syd was billed as the production designer for the 1969 Bond classic On Her Majesty's Secret Service in 1969, playing a crucial role in...
- 11/21/2011
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Article by Jim Batts, Dana Jung, and Tom Stockman
We’re celebrating one of Hollywood’s great tough guys and one of our favorite actors September 6th at The Way Out Club in St. Louis with Super-8 Lee Marvin Movie Madness.
Lee Marvin rose through the ranks of movie stardom as a character actor, delivering mostly villainous supporting turns in many films before finally graduating to leading roles. Regardless of which side of the law he was on however, he projected a tough-as-nails intensity and a two-fisted integrity which elevated even the slightest material. Born February 19, 1924, in New York City, Marvin quit high school to enter the Marine Corps and while serving in the South Pacific was badly wounded in battle when a machine gun nest shot off part of his buttocks and severed his sciatic nerve. He spent a year in recovery before returning to the U.S. where...
We’re celebrating one of Hollywood’s great tough guys and one of our favorite actors September 6th at The Way Out Club in St. Louis with Super-8 Lee Marvin Movie Madness.
Lee Marvin rose through the ranks of movie stardom as a character actor, delivering mostly villainous supporting turns in many films before finally graduating to leading roles. Regardless of which side of the law he was on however, he projected a tough-as-nails intensity and a two-fisted integrity which elevated even the slightest material. Born February 19, 1924, in New York City, Marvin quit high school to enter the Marine Corps and while serving in the South Pacific was badly wounded in battle when a machine gun nest shot off part of his buttocks and severed his sciatic nerve. He spent a year in recovery before returning to the U.S. where...
- 8/30/2011
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
As Contessa Teresa ‘Tracy’ Di Vicenzo in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), Diana Rigg embodied a complex and charming, if sadly terminal ‘Bond girl’. Decked in glamorous, era-specific trends by Marjory Cornelius, Rigg’s costumes were subtly symbolic of her tomboyish nature, culminating in a memorably daring wedding ensemble.
Glamour and symbolism were director Peter Hunt’s idea; he intended a return to the more distinguished Bondian elements of dress and production design as established in Goldfinger (1964). Acknowledged for his dapper style on set, Hunt even sent new 007 George Lazenby to his own tailor. Lazenby’s Bond is one of the sharpest attired in the series, principally because he reflects the flourishing youth movement of the time without betraying the character’s traditional Savile Row sensibilities.
Throughout the film, Tracy wears a variety of dramatic outfits ranging from a scalloped dress in sea green silk and sequins with huge...
Glamour and symbolism were director Peter Hunt’s idea; he intended a return to the more distinguished Bondian elements of dress and production design as established in Goldfinger (1964). Acknowledged for his dapper style on set, Hunt even sent new 007 George Lazenby to his own tailor. Lazenby’s Bond is one of the sharpest attired in the series, principally because he reflects the flourishing youth movement of the time without betraying the character’s traditional Savile Row sensibilities.
Throughout the film, Tracy wears a variety of dramatic outfits ranging from a scalloped dress in sea green silk and sequins with huge...
- 6/24/2011
- by Chris Laverty
- Clothes on Film
Artist Al Hirschfeld's depiction of Sean Connery and Ursula Andress in Dr. No
By Lee Pfeiffer
Joe Dante sent us the head's up that he's just posted the original American trailer for the first James Bond movie, Dr. No on his Trailers From Hell web site as week long tribute to Connery's films. The trailer features an intro and narration by director Brian Trenchard-Smith, who remembers visiting Pinewood Studios as a child and being mesmerized by observing the movie being filmed. There are countless tales of exactly how Sean Connery got the part of Bond. Trenchard-Smith goes with the story, oft-told by long time Bond editor and director Peter Hunt, that it was he who brought the young Scot to the attention of producers Cubby Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. The film's director, Terence Young, also used to take credit for bringing Connery to the role. For the record, Broccoli told...
By Lee Pfeiffer
Joe Dante sent us the head's up that he's just posted the original American trailer for the first James Bond movie, Dr. No on his Trailers From Hell web site as week long tribute to Connery's films. The trailer features an intro and narration by director Brian Trenchard-Smith, who remembers visiting Pinewood Studios as a child and being mesmerized by observing the movie being filmed. There are countless tales of exactly how Sean Connery got the part of Bond. Trenchard-Smith goes with the story, oft-told by long time Bond editor and director Peter Hunt, that it was he who brought the young Scot to the attention of producers Cubby Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. The film's director, Terence Young, also used to take credit for bringing Connery to the role. For the record, Broccoli told...
- 5/19/2011
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
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