I was 10 years old as well when it came out , and it was the fist Bond movie I got to see in the Cinema. Hooked me for life , I was aware of Bond films , usual Christmas Day afternoon premieres on TV in the UK . I still think From Russia with Love is the best Bond Movie though .
@@kirk-daroostergordon9961 Yes...that is basically 100% correct. (Yes, weell... *only* if you didn't see TheSpyWhoLovedMe when it premiered ) 😎 -Cheers from Iceland 🇮🇸
I only remember select scenes from movies when I was 10. Even movies I was obsessed with growing up like t2, back to future, etc., And I have above average memory or at least I used to.
All the time in the world by Louie Armstrong is my favourite but the spy who loved me is a terrific one as well. I would argue all the time in the world is more memorable but that's just my opinion.
It was ok...Dame Shirley Bassey's "Goldfinger" is THE best, hands down. Then, "From Russia With Love," and "You Only Live Twice" by Nancy Sinatra. Honorable mention to Sir James Paul McCartney and Wings' "Live and Let Die." The rest...pffft.
The Bond stunt that most blows my mind is the corkscrew jump in The Man with the Golden Gun. The fact that they did that practically and got the physics right is amazing.
@@nicholashylton6857 ...and they ruined the car jump stunt in edit by putting in the slide-whistle sound effect.... it was 15 years later I realized they actually did that stunt. they also lucked out with the ski jump as 3/4 cameras failed during the take and the only one that functioned was the the long shot... if all cameras had worked, they would have edited the shot like crazy and it would have lost the impact. like the station wagon jump in Vacation, which you don't remember from the movie... the stunt driver launched the family truckster over 50 yds. but they edited the film so you don't even notice that it was anything special...
@@ravenn22Agreed on the corkscrew jump. They used computers to get it right, then... It was like they knew it was TOO awesome and put in the slide whistle to tone it down.
My friends relative was in England, and he saw Roger Moore stressed out. Moore said he needed to get to a reading for a big movie but his lift wasn't there. My mates friend lent Moore his car. Moore then brought the car back and invited him for dinner anytime. A few years later he returned to England and got in touch with Moore and was completely unaware of the success. He said Moore invited him over and dud not hold back on the generosity towards him. I'm still trying to find an interview of Moore speaking on this event. If anyone has heard of him speaking about this please let me know
Same here. I know people say his James Bond wasn't authentic or it was too campy, but I grew up in this era. I even bought a toy model of that car. And this was the first movie with the bad, mean Jaws. Also, Caroline Monro was absolute bad-ass.....until she got shot out of the sky.
@@dukecraig2402 Forgot about that. That's my favourite Bond theme song. In fact, I love all the songs from the Moore era. The only song I really liked after Moore finished his stint was Licence to Kill, but then again, Gladys Knight is a legend.
Always been my favourite. I think the grand scale of the Adams set, the theme music choice (and the disco bond chase theme) the car, the opener, Jaws and Moore in his prime. Just a perfect collaboration of events to make the best bond movie.
I was born in 73 the same year Roger was introduced as bond in live and let die so growing up Roger was my bond and my hero, i was bullied at school but when roger came on tv as bond it took all my fear, stress and anxiety away. Roger took me on adventures and made the world alright. when Roger sadly passed away a piece of me genuinely died aswell i was very saddened.
Have you ever read Sir Roger's autobiography, "My Word Is My Bond?" It's a pretty fantastic book in its own right, but if you have particularly fond memories of him you'll enjoy it all the more. I found a copy on the shelves at a charity shop where I used to work and, as it was a slow morning, I took it behind the counter with me, to keep me amused while the shop was quiet. I spent most of the rest of the day fuming and grinding my teeth because of all the customers who kept coming in and distracting me, stopping me from being able to read my new book in peace . . . Sir Roger was the Bond I grew up with too. When someone says the name, "James Bond," it's his face that pops up in my mind.
When I saw this as a kid, it was the look Caroline Munro gave Roger Moore before the final Lotus / Helicopter scene. Sent every kids wet dream into overdrive.
@@Norvik_-ug3ge couldn't agree with you more. Did you know, that when she got off the speed boat to greet Bind, a bee stung her on the ass. After the scene was shot, she told Roger Moore and he replied with a smile, 'would you like me to suck out the poison.' She was awesome in that movie.
For Your Eyes Only literally brought James Bond back down to Earth after the ridiculousness of Moonraker and had a totally believable plot that didn't involve world domination by a madman. It also had Carole Bouquet in it and that alone makes it a great movie, that and a Citroen 2CV!
@@smartgenes1 Yep. Dull. The pre-credits sequence is the best thing about the film...and the pre-credits sequence is unintentionally funny. This is what happens when a Film Editor gets promoted to Director and proceeds to make 4 terrible movies.
I watched this when it first released and EVERYBODY in the packed cinema cheered/roared/laughed at the ski jump/parachute scene...FANTASTIC movie !! It was a real treat to be ONLY able to see new movie releases at the cinema...huge screen, big sound, great environment...those days, unfortunately, are long gone.
Thanks for putting in that footnote about where the ski/parachute stunt was filmed (Canada, Mount Asgard in Nunavut.) It must have been very expensive and difficult to film in such a remote place in the 70's so it goes to show how much care Cubby and the team put into this adventure.
Only recently, I saw the British spy film "Q PLANES" (1939), with Ralph Richardson as a spy who apparently inspired "John Steed" more than 20 years later. Crazy enough, the plot involves downing planes to steal their cargo (shades of THUNDERBALL), while the climax takes place onboard an enemy ship, where a captive crew escape and start a running gun-battle (shades of THE SPY WHO LOVED ME). The writer of the film as Jack Whittingham-- who was one of the 3 writers involved in the unfilmed screenplay that Ian Fleming then turned into his novel "Thunderball". It's pretty clear to me Whittingham came up with the plot of hijacking a plane to steal atomic bombs, he was reusing his own ideas from the earlier film!
Using Lawrence of Arabia was the first time another soundtrack theme was used, but it wasn’t the only. In Moonraker, they used Elmer Bernstein, Magnificent Seven theme briefly as well.
Also in TSWLM, Agent XXX`s communicator plays the opening notes of 'Lara`s Theme' from Doctor Zhivago. That and the 'Lawrence of Arabia' theme were composed by Maurice Jarre, and both films were directed by David Lean. A tribute to them?
The Spy Who Loved Me is also my favorite Bond movie. Just so many iconic and memorable scenes filled in this movie. It's got one of the best Bond cars which can turn into a submarine, the best villain ever Jaws, British flagged parachute jump, portable water top "running vehicle", beautiful views along Nile river, the love and hate mixed emotions between the main characters. I watched this movie on TV when I was young and I couldn't find my chin... especially when Jaws casually bit the shark to death and swam away. I love everything you say about this movie.
Rodger Moore’s Bond is still my favorite Bond and seeing any of his films always brings me back to my teen years and going to the movies during summer vacation.
I remember going to the Odeon Leicester Square to see this just a couple of weeks after it came out. In 70mm on the big screen it looked spectacular and just what the franchise needed. Whilst all the pre credit sequences of the Bond movies are supposed to grab your attention, this one stands out as one of, if not, the best. It also had a brilliant musical score especially in the ski and car chase where Marvin Hamlisch did a wonderful job of updating the original theme to being very much in keeping with that era of disco and heavy bass. And still one of the best Bond songs ever!
I don't understand how you can devote so much time to this excellent Bond movie, without mentioning, let alone showing scenes with, the amazing Caroline Munro, the other "henchman" in TSWLM. Munro was one of Filmdom's most gorgeous actresses of her time.
It was the most important James Bond film of Roger's career. I remember well, I saw TSWLM in the cinema when it came out. His first two roles as Bond (1973, 1974) didn't really go down well with audiences. So it was practically a last chance to establish himself as a Bond actor - and that's exactly what he did with TSWLM. Not an easy film in the middle of the slapstick era. But you could already tell in the first 30 minutes that this film was meant seriously, Curd Jurgens was a fantastic villain, opinions are divided about Jaws but imho Kiel was great in this movie, Barbara Bach was a state o.t. art Bondgirl, the gimmicks were superb. It's definitely a Top 10 Bond and way better than the last one. God I hate NTTD but that's off topic now.
I enjoyed NTTD but understand why it has been so divisive (have made a couple of videos on it linked in the description). Totally agree on TSWLM - the definitive movie for Moore.
@@PentexProductions Yes, the new Bond is certainly a controversial topic among fans. I have to admit that I might be a little grumpy about NTTD just because of my age and my attitude towards these films. As a child of the 50's I allow myself such a failure. It's so deeply anchored, so don't blame me ☺
Thats some revisionist BS Broccoli propaganda! Live and let die was a major triumf. Booth audiences and criticts loved LALD and Roger in the part TMWTGG on the other hand was not popular! But there was no worrry regaarding Bonds future. But the propaganda machine was firing on all sylinders since Broccoli had become the sole producer. And this Broccoli propaganda machine has been fully at work since
My father had been going to see the Bond films since From Russia With Love, and The Spy Who Loved Me was the first Bond film he took me too, and it has remained one of my favourite films ever since.
On a purely personal basis, I have to dispute that claim. The Living Daylights was the first Bond movie I ever saw in a cinema. Let's just say it made a pretty big impression on my tiny, pre-teen mind. An impression that yet remains, waiting to be eclipsed . . .
Moore was the Bond of my childhood and still my favorite. He could carry himself and had natural style, charm and British sophistication. Every time I hear the 'Spy who loved me' song it brings back old feelings.
Me too . When people are asked who their favourite Bond is, they always say the one they grew up with. Whoever was playing bond through your childhood, will be your favourite Bond. Moore was mine !
When that parachute opened unfurling the giant Union Jack , the audience at my local theatre rose together and erupted in loud cheering and clapping . Great review .
I love what you said, “Bond gets away…” That’s why Bond should survive every situations. I have grown up watching every Bond’s movies and I have never get tired of watching Bond movies, except the latest one: No time to die. I am very disappointed of it.
Nice! The Spy Who Loved Me was the first Bond movie I saw, at ten years old, and has been my favorite ever since. I’ve seen them all, and yes, Connery is the definitive Bond, but I love Roger Moore, and mainly because of this movie. Great video!
Watched this Bond gem last night with the wife and kiddos in our November marathon and it was glorious! I already have it in my Top 5 Bond flicks, but now your video cements it there with your shared love for it. Thanks!
A brilliant essay! For Your Eyes Only is probably my favorite of the Moore era, but The Spy Who Loved Me is a very close second and could overthrow it. I pretty much like/love every Bond movie, though I admit some are better than others.
I was only 9 years old in 1977 but I recall the metal die cast model of the Esprit and also that iconic song by Carly Simon. Much like Doctor Who, I would say that Roger Moore is "my" Bond. I've seen more of his movies and his roguish charm in how he portrays the character. It just "felt" like James Bond for myself. Thanks for making this video! I will check out more on your channel today. :)
I still have a special place in my heart for this movie - certainly because it was good, but that came years later when I was old enough to understand and enjoy it. Rather, it was my dad buying me, who was really into Hot Wheels and Matchbox Cars, the Corgi die-cast model of the Esprit in submarine mode, complete with 007 logo on the hood. No wheels, but still probably my favorite toy car ever!
I had something similar, the fins retracted and came out, there were missiles at the rear that actually worked. Wish I knew what happened to it. Saw it in the theatres. I even bought the dvd, such an iconic movie and part of my childhood.
The score is absolutely fantastic - the plot is a little bit of a retread of the central theme of You Only Live Twice but it’s fantastic! For Your Eyes Only is great too
At eight years old, my dad took me to this as my first James Bond Movie. I loved it. It had everything, killing, political intrigue & skiing (which I had just learned). For years dad said the older ones were better and of course I believed him. He's gone now, but I also realize that he was wrong. Although Sean is the best bond this was, by far, the best Bond movie (at least until the Daniel Craig showed up).
I never noticed before, but during the walk through the desert Bond and Anya are walking separately and there's no attempt by Bond to help her. Another example of the fact there's respect and they're competitors.
Awesome! I did a couple videos not long ago about Moore's tenure, and rewatching this movie for it was a pleasant surprise. What stuck out to me most was how sleek the production design was, especially in the final set-piece that you discussed. Visually, I think it's one of the best 007 films and I agree that Moore does a great job in it. So glad to see you do a deep dive on this movie.
I enjoyed your Moore videos - he brought so much to the role and I think his seven films are all so different, but are united by the strength of his performance and his ridiculous charm! I agree that TSWLM is probably the sleekest and best looking of his films (though FYEO is also great, but maybe that's just because it's impossible to make the Greek coast look bad!)
Thanks for defending Roger Moore. I have a friend who hates his Bond and I am always passionately defending him. I actually think all the Bonds are just fine. Dalton is my fave now, but I think partisanship on this matter is kind of pointless, really.
Wow, I grew up with Roger Moore's James Bond, and he is my favourite 007. Mr. Moore totally got what escapism is all about. The fans know and love a capable, dashing, brave, proficient, dangerous but heroic man who could make any woman swoon.
I love this movie as well. It felt epic. One of the reasons that she doesn't kill him at the end is that he risked his life to rescue her from Stromberg's lair instead of just letting her die from the bombing.
@@PentexProductions I have previously watched them but, spookily enough, I just rewatched the SUPERB Octopussy episode before reading (and responding) to your reply. You really do have a supremely entertaining take on these films and I don't have to worry about pearl clutching comments, you clearly remember these were made in "different times". More please PLEASE!
My favorite Bond is For Your Eyes Only, but this is a close second. One thing I like about this is seeing Bond in uniform. Moore looks so good as Cdr Bond.
FYEO is my favourite song, has my favourite car chase, and the ending scene with the rock climbing is truly extraordinary. A fine choice, and definitely a close second for my favourite Moore film!
Roger Moore was a true human being. My favorite Bond of all time! He played Bond 7 times which is the most of any of the actors. His books on Bond and his THE 007 DIARIES which was based on his diaries he was told to take while filming LIVE AND LET DIE is simply put, OUTSTANDING!
Still prefer "Thunderball", but this movie holds up extremely well. Definitely the Roger Moore highlight of 007 When Anya mentions Tracy Bond , Moore's reaction is unexpected and very appropriate. He has a vulnerability and you bring it up at your own risk.
That scene when Anya presses the right button on the Lotus and nonchalantly says she saw the plans in the Kremlin years ago.. that was really when she was more than his equal
I like to interpret that casual comment as meant to suggest that she got the plans from none other than Q. Look how she disregards Bond's instructions to wait well away from the car, saunters forward, and says loudly "Good morning, Major Boothroyd!," and Q's response "Morning, Major" can be interpreted as subdued (and we can't see his face), and Q then is all too happy to get them on their way a.s.a.p. and can't hide his visible resentment of Bond. Note that I'm not insisting that Anya and Q knocked boots or anything like that -- but I can easily imagine that she had had an earlier undercover mission where she sweet-talked Q, besotted with pride in his sub-Lotus gadget, and then snuck off with the plans leaving Q just as alone as Bond left him on the dock. (It hardly hurts my crazy theory that we learn that Boothroyd and Amasova are of equal rank--which, even though they are obviously on opposite sides of the Cold War, could conceivably be a wink to the Armed Forces rule that co-fraternization is only permitted between soldiers of equal rank!)
Oh come on, she hardly had a cameo appearance in it. She had a major starring role in the movie and featured in one of the most iconic car chases of all time!
This was a truly fantastic video essay. As good as or better than anything you might watch in a ‘Making of’ type DVD documentary included with a Bond film. Last time I watched TSWLM, I felt so grateful for its existence. To think that it all could have ended after the lacklustre reception to TMWTGG
Wonderful review! It's my favorite Bond film and I think one of the very best in the series. Your observation about the success of the travelogue component really resonates - this film uses its locations so very well. Ken Adams' designs are fantastic.
That jetski was also a great scene since at that time, no one knew of jetskis! It looked like another of his gadgets! Star Wars and The Spy Who Loved Me were my favorite movies from 1977, when I was 12. And I actually preferred the Bond film! In time, Star Wars became my all-time favorite, but in 1977, it was Bond. And TSWLM is still my favorite 007 adventure as well. I also agree about the Lotus Esprit!
I always thought I was alone in thinking this was the best bond film. I loved its travel, action and the acting was as quality as I’ve seen in a bond film.
Absolutely correct! This is the pinnacle of Bond movies, from top to bottom. They never improved upon this one... "Nobody does it better" is also arguably the greatest Bond theme song... and definitely top 3!
Absolutely spot on! My favourite Bond movie. This has so much repeat value, you never get tired watching it. I got the same experience with Casino Royale, my second favourite Bond movie. Daniel's Craig's performance and the movie plot was such a breath of fresh air. A guilty pleasure of mine is Octopussy, even though it pales the others, it's still good fun.
I really enjoy Octopussy, I just disliked the production decision to set the climax in a circus (I understand what they were going for with the serious situation/bomb diffusion while Bond is dressed as a clown, but it's too much for me personally). But I think overall the film is excellent. Roger's chemistry with Maud Adams is outstanding, and the backgammon game is pure Fleming.
One of the biggest game changers from this movie is that Bond's relationships between him and the main girl became more important than they had previously - with the exception of Tracey - and became more central to the plot.
I was 7 when this came out and it was the first one I saw at the cinema with my mum. This created a bond (excuse the pun!) between us and we watched every new bond movie together until she passed in 2022 aged 89. I’m 54 now, but I never tire of watching this one. Brings back such great memories.
I love your deep dives into the James Bond movies. I can hear the enjoyment in your voice. It’s great to know that there are others who love James Bond as much as I do. For Your Eyes Only was the first James Bond movie I saw in the theater, in 1981. After that I was a Bond fan. I had a neighbor who had all the James Bond movies beginning with Dr. No on VHS and he lent them to my dad and we watched all the original James Bond’s before Octopussy came out in the theaters. To this day For Your Eyes Only is my favorite James Bond movie, and I think it’s because of nostalgia, but I agree that The Spy Who Loved Me probably deserves to be at the top of the list. (Of the Roger Moore movies especially)
For me, Goldfinger, The Spy Who Loved Me, Golden Eye and Casino Royale are the most important films of the franchise. They established or saved the franchise in key moments. The Spy Who Loved Me is of course my favorite.
My personal favorite is “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. I love all the Bond movies, but it’s the one which shows Bond’s “human” side. The last film in the franchise even has many references to it Including Louie Armstrong’s song….”All the Time in the World”. It also had the most”Bond” girls….Cheers
Great Bond video! The spy who loved me is definitely a great movie! It’s my top 3! When I was a kid and I started watching Bond this was my favorite Bond movie!
This was my first Bond film that I saw growing up. My friends and I talked about it at school. All of us thought it was cool. The ski jump was amazing. I have enjoyed all the actors that have played Bond, but I always thought Roger Moore did a great Bond. One thing the video points out that this was first time the writers did not have a Fleming book to reference. Moving away from Blofeld was smart as it brought a freshness to the series.
I feel people so often forgot how fucking awesome this moive is. The late 60s and early 70s were such a dark time for the franchise and this movie remined us how great these movies are.
Update: My 40-minute long ranking of all 25 James Bond movies is now LIVE on Patreon: www.patreon.com/posts/patron-exclusive-118342232
Goldeneye is the greatest Bond movie of all time
"Why THE SPY WHO LOVED ME is the Greatest Bond Movie"
By saying that, you think people will believe that?
Gote my vote no weak spoot in tge movie
I was 10 years old as well when it came out , and it was the fist Bond movie I got to see in the Cinema. Hooked me for life , I was aware of Bond films , usual Christmas Day afternoon premieres on TV in the UK . I still think From Russia with Love is the best Bond Movie though .
@@kirk-daroostergordon9961
Yes...that is basically 100% correct. (Yes, weell... *only* if you didn't see
TheSpyWhoLovedMe
when it premiered ) 😎
-Cheers from Iceland 🇮🇸
At 10 years old, this is the first Bond film I remember from start to finish. The ski jump scene is the best Bond opening.....love it.
I was 10, too. The most entertaining Bond film ever, still to this day for me.
I was 13 .Knocked my socks off
Mine was for your eyes only. Well, remembering it from start to finish
@@mikeschaeffer7262 I consider that one the best actual spy movie during the Moore era.
I only remember select scenes from movies when I was 10. Even movies I was obsessed with growing up like t2, back to future, etc., And I have above average memory or at least I used to.
You forgot to mention, Carly Simon’s theme song. Also, ranked among the best and most memorable
Yep, the song adds a whole new level to the quality of the movie. My favorite Bond theme of all time.
Indeed, Simon's voice is one of the most memoreable themes of the whole franchise. What an amazing song.
song, yes, in top 5.... but overall music score Spy was one of the worst.... too bad Barry wasn't available... he is the sound of bond
All the time in the world by Louie Armstrong is my favourite but the spy who loved me is a terrific one as well.
I would argue all the time in the world is more memorable but that's just my opinion.
It was ok...Dame Shirley Bassey's "Goldfinger" is THE best, hands down. Then, "From Russia With Love," and "You Only Live Twice" by Nancy Sinatra. Honorable mention to Sir James Paul McCartney and Wings' "Live and Let Die." The rest...pffft.
A wonderful Bond and human being. RIP Roger Moore.
Most folks dont know Roger was a strict pacifist...meaning use your brain instead of your fists to solve issues
He sure kill a lot of folks on film.
And Rip Sean Connery too.
Did you know him personally then?
He did so much great charity work and brought escapism and joy for millions.
I'm not British but the parachute open scene absolutely fires me up. The scene is fantastic.
it just so happened to be the Queen's silver jubilee the same year, and as Bond is doing everything for Queen and Country...
The spy who loved me and moonraker are my personal favourite bond movies
The skiing base-jump in the movie is still legendary for practical stunts. It blew my little mind as a kid and still blows my mind.
The Bond stunt that most blows my mind is the corkscrew jump in The Man with the Golden Gun. The fact that they did that practically and got the physics right is amazing.
@@franciscodanconia4324 Yep. That's #2 on my list.
The ski-BASE is literally what inspired me to become a BASE jumper.
@@nicholashylton6857 ...and they ruined the car jump stunt in edit by putting in the slide-whistle sound effect.... it was 15 years later I realized they actually did that stunt.
they also lucked out with the ski jump as 3/4 cameras failed during the take and the only one that functioned was the the long shot... if all cameras had worked, they would have edited the shot like crazy and it would have lost the impact. like the station wagon jump in Vacation, which you don't remember from the movie... the stunt driver launched the family truckster over 50 yds. but they edited the film so you don't even notice that it was anything special...
@@ravenn22Agreed on the corkscrew jump. They used computers to get it right, then... It was like they knew it was TOO awesome and put in the slide whistle to tone it down.
My friends relative was in England, and he saw Roger Moore stressed out. Moore said he needed to get to a reading for a big movie but his lift wasn't there. My mates friend lent Moore his car. Moore then brought the car back and invited him for dinner anytime. A few years later he returned to England and got in touch with Moore and was completely unaware of the success. He said Moore invited him over and dud not hold back on the generosity towards him.
I'm still trying to find an interview of Moore speaking on this event. If anyone has heard of him speaking about this please let me know
Yet another example of what a wonderful person Roger Moore was
Have you previously watched the interview? Do you know year/decade it was filmed, Who was the interviewer, TV show and etc?
Do you like him in The Persuaders? I was a kid when got the Bond role. I was maddened that it meant the end of The Persuaders.
Awesome!
So what if the lift wasn't there, couldn't he just take the stairs? (jk)
As a young boy I grew up watching Roger Moore's films, and TSWLM is one of my favourites to this day.
Same here. I know people say his James Bond wasn't authentic or it was too campy, but I grew up in this era. I even bought a toy model of that car. And this was the first movie with the bad, mean Jaws. Also, Caroline Monro was absolute bad-ass.....until she got shot out of the sky.
my favorite bound film is A View To A Kill. Second is Moonraker
Yep, and Carley Simon's theme song is the icing on the cake.
you're not a real bond fan
@@dukecraig2402 Forgot about that. That's my favourite Bond theme song. In fact, I love all the songs from the Moore era. The only song I really liked after Moore finished his stint was Licence to Kill, but then again, Gladys Knight is a legend.
Always been my favourite. I think the grand scale of the Adams set, the theme music choice (and the disco bond chase theme) the car, the opener, Jaws and Moore in his prime. Just a perfect collaboration of events to make the best bond movie.
I was born in 73 the same year Roger was introduced as bond in live and let die so growing up Roger was my bond and my hero, i was bullied at school but when roger came on tv as bond it took all my fear, stress and anxiety away. Roger took me on adventures and made the world alright. when Roger sadly passed away a piece of me genuinely died aswell i was very saddened.
Have you ever read Sir Roger's autobiography, "My Word Is My Bond?"
It's a pretty fantastic book in its own right, but if you have particularly fond memories of him you'll enjoy it all the more.
I found a copy on the shelves at a charity shop where I used to work and, as it was a slow morning, I took it behind the counter with me, to keep me amused while the shop was quiet.
I spent most of the rest of the day fuming and grinding my teeth because of all the customers who kept coming in and distracting me, stopping me from being able to read my new book in peace . . .
Sir Roger was the Bond I grew up with too. When someone says the name, "James Bond," it's his face that pops up in my mind.
My favourite Bond movie of all time. Great gadgets, villains, Bond girl, locations, the car-marine and of course Roger Moore. 🔥
When I saw this as a kid, it was the look Caroline Munro gave Roger Moore before the final Lotus / Helicopter scene.
Sent every kids wet dream into overdrive.
Uh... YESSS!!!! OMG Caroline Munro winking at Bond from the helicopter, she was just the most gorgeous sexy woman imaginable...
oh yeah, totally one of the hottest ever in a Bond film.
Still annoyed he killed her. Adore Barbara Bach but Caroline Munro is one of the most luscious women to have ever existed.
@@Norvik_-ug3ge couldn't agree with you more.
Did you know, that when she got off the speed boat to greet Bind, a bee stung her on the ass.
After the scene was shot, she told Roger Moore and he replied with a smile, 'would you like me to suck out the poison.'
She was awesome in that movie.
@@IanSRutter”D’oh! The bee bit my bottom, now my bottom’s big!” - Homer Goes to College
This and For Your Eyes Only are just incredible, I find it so hard to decide between the two.
For Your Eyes Only is terrible.
Probably not many agree with you on that one but I do. Those 2 would be some of my favorite Bond movies and definitely top 5 on my list
@@smartgenes1 What? Brilliant film with decent plot. Beats anything Daniel Craig ever did.
For Your Eyes Only literally brought James Bond back down to Earth after the ridiculousness of Moonraker and had a totally believable plot that didn't involve world domination by a madman. It also had Carole Bouquet in it and that alone makes it a great movie, that and a Citroen 2CV!
@@smartgenes1 Yep. Dull.
The pre-credits sequence is the best thing about the film...and the pre-credits sequence is unintentionally funny.
This is what happens when a Film Editor gets promoted to Director and proceeds to make 4 terrible movies.
Yes... that ski jump truly is one of the finest Bond scene ever.
the Lotus Esprit is my favorite Bond car of all time. As a kid loved it. This movie is why Roger Moore is my James Bond.
Carly Simon's 'Nobody Does it Better,' one of the best Bond theme songs.
In addition to the Lotus submarine-car and Barbara Bach, can't forget it also had an awesome theme song in Carly Simon's "Nobody Does It Better".
Absolutely!
Before the internet and tweeter, I remember the song and the movie being everywhere. Everyone talked about it. Total saturation of American culture.
Octopussy is far better
@@stefanandreas4705 The intro and Theme song is a Classic
this song is so great. I still wonder why it is despised today.
I watched this when it first released and EVERYBODY in the packed cinema cheered/roared/laughed at the ski jump/parachute scene...FANTASTIC movie !!
It was a real treat to be ONLY able to see new movie releases at the cinema...huge screen, big sound, great environment...those days, unfortunately, are long gone.
Thanks for putting in that footnote about where the ski/parachute stunt was filmed (Canada, Mount Asgard in Nunavut.) It must have been very expensive and difficult to film in such a remote place in the 70's so it goes to show how much care Cubby and the team put into this adventure.
The battle between the US and UK sailors and Stromberg's henchmen is too epic for words.
There were also Soviet submariners fighting alongside the USN and RN submariners.
Only recently, I saw the British spy film "Q PLANES" (1939), with Ralph Richardson as a spy who apparently inspired "John Steed" more than 20 years later. Crazy enough, the plot involves downing planes to steal their cargo (shades of THUNDERBALL), while the climax takes place onboard an enemy ship, where a captive crew escape and start a running gun-battle (shades of THE SPY WHO LOVED ME). The writer of the film as Jack Whittingham-- who was one of the 3 writers involved in the unfilmed screenplay that Ian Fleming then turned into his novel "Thunderball". It's pretty clear to me Whittingham came up with the plot of hijacking a plane to steal atomic bombs, he was reusing his own ideas from the earlier film!
Using Lawrence of Arabia was the first time another soundtrack theme was used, but it wasn’t the only. In Moonraker, they used Elmer Bernstein, Magnificent Seven theme briefly as well.
And I think the tonal sequence from Close Encounters of the third kind for the codelock to the laboratory.
@@ThorstenWieking As well as three familiar notes from 2001: A Space Odyssey.
In the non-Eon Bond Film "Casino Royale (1967)", a few snippets of the theme from "Born Free" were used.
I always forget it's coming up and it always makes me laugh out loud.
Also in TSWLM, Agent XXX`s communicator plays the opening notes of 'Lara`s Theme' from Doctor Zhivago. That and the 'Lawrence of Arabia' theme were composed by Maurice Jarre, and both films were directed by David Lean. A tribute to them?
The Spy Who Loved Me is also my favorite Bond movie. Just so many iconic and memorable scenes filled in this movie. It's got one of the best Bond cars which can turn into a submarine, the best villain ever Jaws, British flagged parachute jump, portable water top "running vehicle", beautiful views along Nile river, the love and hate mixed emotions between the main characters. I watched this movie on TV when I was young and I couldn't find my chin... especially when Jaws casually bit the shark to death and swam away.
I love everything you say about this movie.
This one, Moonraker and A View To A Kill, in that order, were his best. I'm glad I'm old enough to have seen these in the theaters, the good 'ol days.
Rodger Moore’s Bond is still my favorite Bond and seeing any of his films always brings me back to my teen years and going to the movies during summer vacation.
I remember going to the Odeon Leicester Square to see this just a couple of weeks after it came out. In 70mm on the big screen it looked spectacular and just what the franchise needed. Whilst all the pre credit sequences of the Bond movies are supposed to grab your attention, this one stands out as one of, if not, the best. It also had a brilliant musical score especially in the ski and car chase where Marvin Hamlisch did a wonderful job of updating the original theme to being very much in keeping with that era of disco and heavy bass. And still one of the best Bond songs ever!
I don't understand how you can devote so much time to this excellent Bond movie, without mentioning, let alone showing scenes with, the amazing Caroline Munro, the other "henchman" in TSWLM. Munro was one of Filmdom's most gorgeous actresses of her time.
I need to make a whole other video about that wink!
I've often thought Munro & Bach should have swapped roles.
My two favorites Bond Movies are: "The spy who loved me" and "You only live twice"!
Best pre-credit action sequence, best credit sequence with Carly, best script, best etc.
Thank you for this. It has been MANY years since I watched a bond film and I forgot how funny Moore was.
It was the most important James Bond film of Roger's career. I remember well, I saw TSWLM in the cinema when it came out. His first two roles as Bond (1973, 1974) didn't really go down well with audiences. So it was practically a last chance to establish himself as a Bond actor - and that's exactly what he did with TSWLM. Not an easy film in the middle of the slapstick era. But you could already tell in the first 30 minutes that this film was meant seriously, Curd Jurgens was a fantastic villain, opinions are divided about Jaws but imho Kiel was great in this movie, Barbara Bach was a state o.t. art Bondgirl, the gimmicks were superb. It's definitely a Top 10 Bond and way better than the last one. God I hate NTTD but that's off topic now.
I enjoyed NTTD but understand why it has been so divisive (have made a couple of videos on it linked in the description). Totally agree on TSWLM - the definitive movie for Moore.
@@PentexProductions Yes, the new Bond is certainly a controversial topic among fans. I have to admit that I might be a little grumpy about NTTD just because of my age and my attitude towards these films. As a child of the 50's I allow myself such a failure. It's so deeply anchored, so don't blame me ☺
Thats some revisionist BS Broccoli propaganda! Live and let die was a major triumf. Booth audiences and criticts loved LALD and Roger in the part TMWTGG on the other hand was not popular! But there was no worrry regaarding Bonds future. But the propaganda machine was firing on all sylinders since Broccoli had become the sole producer. And this Broccoli propaganda machine has been fully at work since
@@valk67 as a child of the 00's i agree TSWLM is far superior to NTTD
NTTD is a failure for me it messed up the time line, is it meant to before LTK?
My father had been going to see the Bond films since From Russia With Love, and The Spy Who Loved Me was the first Bond film he took me too, and it has remained one of my favourite films ever since.
you are absolutely right. No Bond film ever dethroned "The Spy" from its dominant position.
Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!
On a purely personal basis, I have to dispute that claim.
The Living Daylights was the first Bond movie I ever saw in a cinema. Let's just say it made a pretty big impression on my tiny, pre-teen mind. An impression that yet remains, waiting to be eclipsed . . .
@@stickiedmin6508 I'd rate all the 60's Bond films over The Spy Who Loved Me and easily as well.
@@ppuh6tfrz646
Yeah? So?
You'll hurt your back if you keep posing like that mate . . .
@@stickiedmin6508 WTF are you talking about?
Moore was the Bond of my childhood and still my favorite. He could carry himself and had natural style, charm and British sophistication. Every time I hear the 'Spy who loved me' song it brings back old feelings.
Me too . When people are asked who their favourite Bond is, they always say the one they grew up with. Whoever was playing bond through your childhood, will be your favourite Bond. Moore was mine !
When that parachute opened unfurling the giant Union Jack , the audience at my local theatre rose together and erupted in loud cheering and clapping . Great review .
It was hilarious to have a henchman who won't die. Especially when the others were dying like flies.
Excellent observation!
... and yet I never classed it as, the now too common, 'plot armour'?????
R.I.P Sir Roger Moore…Nobody did it better!💪🏼🔫
He was the most english Bond.
@@mr.2cents.846 He was the only english Bond! Connery was from Scotland, Lazenby from Australia, Dalton from Wales, Brosnan from Ireland.
Or Craig who is from England 🤷🏻♂️
❤️ Roger Moore only fault was a view to kill movie beyondbad; Sean Connery had diamonds are forever:: another bad 🎬 movies
Except for Sean Connery and Daniel Craig. Sean Connery was the most human and realistic.
I love what you said, “Bond gets away…” That’s why Bond should survive every situations. I have grown up watching every Bond’s movies and I have never get tired of watching Bond movies, except the latest one: No time to die. I am very disappointed of it.
Nice! The Spy Who Loved Me was the first Bond movie I saw, at ten years old, and has been my favorite ever since. I’ve seen them all, and yes, Connery is the definitive Bond, but I love Roger Moore, and mainly because of this movie. Great video!
Watched this Bond gem last night with the wife and kiddos in our November marathon and it was glorious! I already have it in my Top 5 Bond flicks, but now your video cements it there with your shared love for it. Thanks!
A brilliant essay! For Your Eyes Only is probably my favorite of the Moore era, but The Spy Who Loved Me is a very close second and could overthrow it. I pretty much like/love every Bond movie, though I admit some are better than others.
I was only 9 years old in 1977 but I recall the metal die cast model of the Esprit and also that iconic song by Carly Simon. Much like Doctor Who, I would say that Roger Moore is "my" Bond. I've seen more of his movies and his roguish charm in how he portrays the character. It just "felt" like James Bond for myself. Thanks for making this video! I will check out more on your channel today. :)
I was same age and had the same car (along w/the DB5).
I still have a special place in my heart for this movie - certainly because it was good, but that came years later when I was old enough to understand and enjoy it. Rather, it was my dad buying me, who was really into Hot Wheels and Matchbox Cars, the Corgi die-cast model of the Esprit in submarine mode, complete with 007 logo on the hood. No wheels, but still probably my favorite toy car ever!
I would have given so much to have a toy like that when I was younger!
I had something similar, the fins retracted and came out, there were missiles at the rear that actually worked. Wish I knew what happened to it.
Saw it in the theatres. I even bought the dvd, such an iconic movie and part of my childhood.
The score is absolutely fantastic - the plot is a little bit of a retread of the central theme of You Only Live Twice but it’s fantastic! For Your Eyes Only is great too
This absolutely is the GOAT Bond film.
Watch (and listen to) "Her Majesty's Secret Service".
Then get back to us.
Ill rewatch it. Been ages since I’ve seen it but back then Lazenby really wasn’t my jam.
At eight years old, my dad took me to this as my first James Bond Movie. I loved it. It had everything, killing, political intrigue & skiing (which I had just learned).
For years dad said the older ones were better and of course I believed him.
He's gone now, but I also realize that he was wrong. Although Sean is the best bond this was, by far, the best Bond movie (at least until the Daniel Craig showed up).
One of my favourite Bond movies for sure.
Thanks Buddy.
Thank YOU for watching
I never noticed before, but during the walk through the desert Bond and Anya are walking separately and there's no attempt by Bond to help her. Another example of the fact there's respect and they're competitors.
This was no doubt the biggest Bond production and one of the most entertaining. Roger Moore was so underrated until this movie. RIP Mr. Moore.
Now I see a few similarities to my favorite Mission Impossible film which is Ghost Protocol. Nice video.
Awesome! I did a couple videos not long ago about Moore's tenure, and rewatching this movie for it was a pleasant surprise. What stuck out to me most was how sleek the production design was, especially in the final set-piece that you discussed. Visually, I think it's one of the best 007 films and I agree that Moore does a great job in it. So glad to see you do a deep dive on this movie.
I enjoyed your Moore videos - he brought so much to the role and I think his seven films are all so different, but are united by the strength of his performance and his ridiculous charm! I agree that TSWLM is probably the sleekest and best looking of his films (though FYEO is also great, but maybe that's just because it's impossible to make the Greek coast look bad!)
Thanks for defending Roger Moore. I have a friend who hates his Bond and I am always passionately defending him. I actually think all the Bonds are just fine. Dalton is my fave now, but I think partisanship on this matter is kind of pointless, really.
The Spy Who Loved Me is my favorite James Bond film of all time.
Wow, I grew up with Roger Moore's James Bond, and he is my favourite 007. Mr. Moore totally got what escapism is all about. The fans know and love a capable, dashing, brave, proficient, dangerous but heroic man who could make any woman swoon.
sounds like me
I thought I was alone on this. This was ONLY Bond movie I had on DVD, the ONLY one I wanted to own...
I grew up with Roger Moore as Bond and this one has always been my personal favourite.😁
I love this movie as well. It felt epic. One of the reasons that she doesn't kill him at the end is that he risked his life to rescue her from Stromberg's lair instead of just letting her die from the bombing.
I first watched this superb video many months ago but I just watched it for a second time, it’s just so damn good, bravo!
Thanks for coming back to it! I've made similar videos about Octopussy and Goldfinger that you might enjoy as well.
@@PentexProductions I have previously watched them but, spookily enough, I just rewatched the SUPERB Octopussy episode before reading (and responding) to your reply. You really do have a supremely entertaining take on these films and I don't have to worry about pearl clutching comments, you clearly remember these were made in "different times". More please PLEASE!
You can tell that a RIDICULOUS amount of work went into this video! Thanks Pentex! Fantastic vid!
I saw this in theaters when I was seven. First Bond movie. On the way home with my dad we heard Carly Simon on the radio.
Best bond, best girl, best car, best henchman, best song, end of!
My favorite Bond is For Your Eyes Only, but this is a close second. One thing I like about this is seeing Bond in uniform. Moore looks so good as Cdr Bond.
FYEO is my favourite song, has my favourite car chase, and the ending scene with the rock climbing is truly extraordinary. A fine choice, and definitely a close second for my favourite Moore film!
The best Moore film imo
Yeah, FYEO and TSWLM are easily his 2 best films.
Carole Bouquet is my favorite Bond girl.
@@foxtayle683 my fav is carey lowell or ursula she was the first and made bikinis big so thanks for that
I agree that this one is my personal fav, next to Goldeneye. It has the best story, villain, sequences....it was great and very rewatchable.
Roger Moore was a true human being. My favorite Bond of all time! He played Bond 7 times which is the most of any of the actors. His books on Bond and his THE 007 DIARIES which was based on his diaries he was told to take while filming LIVE AND LET DIE is simply put, OUTSTANDING!
Hes tied with Connery if you count Never Say Never Again.
this one of the PERFECT Bond movies!
The movie was just a remake of You Only Live Twice, with Lewis Gilbert directing both.
Still prefer "Thunderball", but this movie holds up extremely well. Definitely the Roger Moore highlight of 007
When Anya mentions Tracy Bond , Moore's reaction is unexpected and very appropriate. He has a vulnerability and you bring it up at your own risk.
No doubt Thunderball is first or second place from all Bond films. I wanted the movie poster so bad but it is one if the most expensive out there.
Simply the best stunt in the history of cinema. One mistake, an unwelcome breeze and he's dead. What more can one say about that jump.
I don't need to watch a single second of this video to know i fully agree.
But i will watch it anyway!!
That scene when Anya presses the right button on the Lotus and nonchalantly says she saw the plans in the Kremlin years ago.. that was really when she was more than his equal
I like to interpret that casual comment as meant to suggest that she got the plans from none other than Q. Look how she disregards Bond's instructions to wait well away from the car, saunters forward, and says loudly "Good morning, Major Boothroyd!," and Q's response "Morning, Major" can be interpreted as subdued (and we can't see his face), and Q then is all too happy to get them on their way a.s.a.p. and can't hide his visible resentment of Bond. Note that I'm not insisting that Anya and Q knocked boots or anything like that -- but I can easily imagine that she had had an earlier undercover mission where she sweet-talked Q, besotted with pride in his sub-Lotus gadget, and then snuck off with the plans leaving Q just as alone as Bond left him on the dock. (It hardly hurts my crazy theory that we learn that Boothroyd and Amasova are of equal rank--which, even though they are obviously on opposite sides of the Cold War, could conceivably be a wink to the Armed Forces rule that co-fraternization is only permitted between soldiers of equal rank!)
And a neat reference as the Brits finally admit that MI6 was basically working for the KGB from the 1930s onwards.
@@lllordllloyd What is this rubbish?
Great review but forgot to mention a stunning cameo appearance from Caroline Munro. First Bond movie I saw in the cinema & remains my favourite too
Oh come on, she hardly had a cameo appearance in it. She had a major starring role in the movie and featured in one of the most iconic car chases of all time!
This was a truly fantastic video essay. As good as or better than anything you might watch in a ‘Making of’ type DVD documentary included with a Bond film.
Last time I watched TSWLM, I felt so grateful for its existence. To think that it all could have ended after the lacklustre reception to TMWTGG
This was my first experience of the bond franchise as a young boy...skiing of a cliff + all the Lotus scenes...absolutely awesome👍
I agree, this is a very well developed video.
Wonderful review! It's my favorite Bond film and I think one of the very best in the series. Your observation about the success of the travelogue component really resonates - this film uses its locations so very well. Ken Adams' designs are fantastic.
The Best Bond Movie , hands down , awesome stunts , great gizmos , amazing scenes , the coolest dude with a smokin hot gal .
He may not be the Bond from the books but he was by far the most charismatic Bond.
That jetski was also a great scene since at that time, no one knew of jetskis! It looked like another of his gadgets!
Star Wars and The Spy Who Loved Me were my favorite movies from 1977, when I was 12.
And I actually preferred the Bond film! In time, Star Wars became my all-time favorite, but in 1977, it was Bond.
And TSWLM is still my favorite 007 adventure as well. I also agree about the Lotus Esprit!
My favorite Bond and Bond film.
I always thought I was alone in thinking this was the best bond film. I loved its travel, action and the acting was as quality as I’ve seen in a bond film.
Absolutely correct! This is the pinnacle of Bond movies, from top to bottom. They never improved upon this one...
"Nobody does it better" is also arguably the greatest Bond theme song... and definitely top 3!
Absolutely spot on! My favourite Bond movie. This has so much repeat value, you never get tired watching it. I got the same experience with Casino Royale, my second favourite Bond movie. Daniel's Craig's performance and the movie plot was such a breath of fresh air. A guilty pleasure of mine is Octopussy, even though it pales the others, it's still good fun.
I really enjoy Octopussy, I just disliked the production decision to set the climax in a circus (I understand what they were going for with the serious situation/bomb diffusion while Bond is dressed as a clown, but it's too much for me personally). But I think overall the film is excellent. Roger's chemistry with Maud Adams is outstanding, and the backgammon game is pure Fleming.
Octopussy is brilliant! Casino Royale? No way, over rated and Bond was such a SIMP telling a bird he knew for only 5 minutes "I love you" WHAT?????
One of the biggest game changers from this movie is that Bond's relationships between him and the main girl became more important than they had previously - with the exception of Tracey - and became more central to the plot.
The sound track was amazing in particular the beginning chase scene.
I was 7 when this came out and it was the first one I saw at the cinema with my mum. This created a bond (excuse the pun!) between us and we watched every new bond movie together until she passed in 2022 aged 89. I’m 54 now, but I never tire of watching this one. Brings back such great memories.
I hear what you are saying about Barbara Bach's acting - but to be honest, her other attributes elevate her to my favorite all-time Bond girl.
In the end her soaking wet in the red dress was well err very erotic.🤪😜🤪😛
This was definitely the best Moore Bond. One of my top 3 Bond films.
My favorite Bond movie with my favorite 007 ever, Sir Roger Moore RIP 🌟
I love the music at the end. It starts with a male vocal chorus singing Nobody Does it Better, before going into Carly singing it.
I love your deep dives into the James Bond movies. I can hear the enjoyment in your voice. It’s great to know that there are others who love James Bond as much as I do. For Your Eyes Only was the first James Bond movie I saw in the theater, in 1981. After that I was a Bond fan. I had a neighbor who had all the James Bond movies beginning with Dr. No on VHS and he lent them to my dad and we watched all the original James Bond’s before Octopussy came out in the theaters. To this day For Your Eyes Only is my favorite James Bond movie, and I think it’s because of nostalgia, but I agree that The Spy Who Loved Me probably deserves to be at the top of the list. (Of the Roger Moore movies especially)
For me, Goldfinger, The Spy Who Loved Me, Golden Eye and Casino Royale are the most important films of the franchise. They established or saved the franchise in key moments. The Spy Who Loved Me is of course my favorite.
Agreed, all pivotal films that had to succeed or the series could have ended.
Solid list
Roger never acted, he played himself in everything he did.
Indeed, he reminds us to do what ever you want, but please with humor and style.
My personal favorite is “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”. I love all the Bond movies, but it’s the one which shows Bond’s “human” side. The last film in the franchise even has many references to it Including Louie Armstrong’s song….”All the Time in the World”. It also had the most”Bond” girls….Cheers
And many other Bond references: th-cam.com/video/9blqdDcbz2A/w-d-xo.html
Plus it has Diana Rigg, perhaps one of the sexiest women ever on TV. She was absolutely perfect in every way.
Great Bond video! The spy who loved me is definitely a great movie! It’s my top 3! When I was a kid and I started watching Bond this was my favorite Bond movie!
This is my Bond movie. That and the Carly Simon song
Thanks for the Firefly reference. The American captain was played by Shane Rimmer who voiced Scott Tracy in another great TV series - Thunderbirds.
As a fan of Thunderbirds, that's a great little fact!
Happy to help. 🙂
Shane is in other earlier Bond film,, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever & Live & Let Die
License to Kill is my favorite Bond movie but this is definitely the best Moore Bond movie…
Strong choice; Dalton is excellent in the role
Likewise, but I will say that TSWLM is the perfect Sunday afternoon Bond film. Particularly at this time of year as the nights grow longer.
I despise that movie, and have not seen Bond since. They killed Felix, and then it was just a revenge piece.
Chacun a son gout.
Very underrated. Much like Dalton as Bond. I loved both his films. Wished he did GoldenEye.
I like Dalton, but his movies let him down. He should have been in better films.
This was my first Bond film that I saw growing up. My friends and I talked about it at school. All of us thought it was cool. The ski jump was amazing. I have enjoyed all the actors that have played Bond, but I always thought Roger Moore did a great Bond. One thing the video points out that this was first time the writers did not have a Fleming book to reference. Moving away from Blofeld was smart as it brought a freshness to the series.
I feel people so often forgot how fucking awesome this moive is. The late 60s and early 70s were such a dark time for the franchise and this movie remined us how great these movies are.
That was a superb piece of analysis and commentary. Bravo!