Dr No....Is It Connery's Best?

A theory was born on a road trip...Is the first Bond movie of each Bond actor their best? Being James Bond and The Bond Experience explore this theory one actor at a time. First up is Dr. No and Sean Connery. CAUTION! Opinions and fists will fly! For unique content head over to Being James Bond on KZbin and subscribe to see all the latest from Joe: / beingjamesbond
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When David is not running an advertising and marketing company, his hobby is The Bond Experience which is primarily a video blog where he discusses Bond experiences and the people and brands that help to create those experiences...
Over the past fifteen years, David Zaritsky has been featured and sourced for articles in the following media Time Magazine, The Boston Globe, The Courier Times, USA Today, Star Magazine, MM&M, The Exchange, The Guardian, The New York Times, Bond on Bond, American Media Inc., AP Wire and online social media outlets. David has been a speaker at Johns Hopkin, Hofstra University, and Columbia as a Bond Experience expert. His collection is one of the largest in the USA and represents one of the most complete as it pertains to lifestyle collectibles. Invited to cover Tom Ford, Omega, Heineken, and Coke partnership events, David has represented social media experiences for many years. In addition David has provided props and decor for Johns Hopkin Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace Premieres as well as the Devereaux Foundation 007 Fundraiser.
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Credits:
Cinematographer: Danielle Zaritsky
‘James Bond Theme’ written by Monty Norman and John Barry. Title Sequence music arranged and produced by James Sanger
Vlog Content Score: Jordan Nevin

[@oskareriksson3835]

Love the painting of the Duke of Wellington in the background. Nice touch!

[@TheBondExperience]

;)

[@ID-Guy]

Ranking my favorite Connery films: 1. Thunderball - 2. Goldfinger - 3. Dr No. - I think he nailed it in Thunderball, the humour, the setting, the clothing and gadgets. It's just a perfect bond film for my tastes.

[@4gegtyreeyuyeddffvyt]

IDGuy Thunderball was never one that I gave much attention to but after hearing David praise it at the end of this review I went back and watched it again. I was surprised how beautiful the cinematography was I loved all the underwater scenes. Definitely an underrated Bond film, cheers!

[@maldini883]

1 Goldfinger 2Thunderball 3FRWL 4DR No 5YOLT 6DAF

[@lukasnummer1]

My personal favourite of Connery - and in general - is "Dr. No" (along with "From Russia with Love"), but "Thunderball" is just soo stylish. I really love that film. Terence Young is the best director the Bond franchise has ever had and will ever have.

[@Michael1966W]

My Connery list. 1. Goldfinger 2. Thunderball 3. From Russia with Love. 4. Diamonds are Forever 5. Dr. No 6. You only live twice

[@chrisjohnson8033]

It's hard to say when it comes to Connery. His first 3 are just legendary. Though I'd lean towards From Russia With Love as the best.

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

From Russia with Love is my least favorite. It was so boring!

[@ryan201087martin]

Connery's entire run, with the exception of Diamonds, is fantastic. Personally my favourite is Goldfinger though. But the train fight in FRWL is outstanding

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

@@ryan201087martin Dr. No has a special place in my heart. I think it is because of the exotic location and exotic women.

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

@@mercuryrising2424 From Russia with Love was my least favorite. It just underperfomed for me.

[@lonnieholston4245]

From Russia with love

[@Plally06]

Dr. No has the magic powers that make often ludicrous scenarios (fire breathing tank painted as a dragon) seem tense and cool. Connery looks the best he's ever looked, he's not relaxed into comedy yet and he's tough and resourceful. No cringy one liners. It's excellent. It's still one of my all time faves.

[@degenerategambler4830]

Paul Lally what about “I think they were on their way to a funeral.”

[@Plally06]

@@degenerategambler4830 Humourous but still dark. Not farce. I also like 'and uh....be careful of her nail varnish' - cold!!

[@guileniam]

@@degenerategambler4830 it's dark humor

[@Norskellunge]

Connery's Bond and McQueen's Bullitt are similar "policemen" to me. No coincidence they're both such iconic roles from the times.

[@TansTown]

I would love some Bond Experience Commentary tracks!

[@JamesBondCanada]

Great Idea!

[@DamnFoolIdealisticCrusader]

Indeed in an early draft the first writers had made Fleming’s villain a more nameless thug with a pet monkey called Dr. No. Cubby Broccoli took one look at it and demanded Fleming’s fantastically designed character restored. I think Wiseman’s performance elevated the whole film and on a presence basis is arguably the best villain in the series. This is in spite of the fact that the novel was a back to basics approach that riffs in a way on the Fu Manchu stories. Good point as the case can be made for each actor having more nervous energy behind the first performance. The case can also be made for Dr. No as the most pure film in the series. Bond here is pure and intelligent just as Fleming’s character is. Outside of this I’d argue that only FRWL, OHMSS and the Dalton era take great pains to use Fleming outside of some moments in the rest of the original series overall. However the points mentioned in the video can and should be attributed to the style of Terence Young, who essentially laid the entire foundation of the series in the first two films and when Guy Hamilton took over on Goldfinger it was never quite the same-Young himself came back on Thunderball and by that point the success had started to drive the cart before the horse. I adore the entire original series but if forced to choose the best is FRWL and DN a close second. None of the modern pc complaints are merited here. The fetch my shoes line is an unintentionally negative sounding comment today that is not meant to be.

[@deacondavis5098]

In the Dr. No novel, Bond and Quarrel were already friends in as much that he included Bond in his will. Previously in the novel Live And Let Die, They both worked together!

[@kryptych]

Just discovered this channel, and really enjoying your insights and how thoughtful the two of you are about numerous aspects of the Bond series.

[@geoffreygershon]

I will say you guys have me wanting to revisit this movie - Dr. No is one that I haven't seen in a while.

[@EthanKnight97]

I think Dr.No was the near perfect introduction to the cinematic James Bond, people forget many doubted that 007 would translate to the big screen. If it wasn't for Dr.No James Bond wouldn't be continuing today. In terms of Connery's movies Goldfinger would always be the best for me.

[@chriszone50]

The perfect introduction for Connery would have been Casino Royale.

[@randallrutherford1384]

@@chriszone50 that would have been amazing to see

[@4gegtyreeyuyeddffvyt]

I can’t wait for the next review! Love the Bond fashion vids but this is a nice break from that. I was really looking forward to this and I wasn’t disappointed. Good insight David!

[@halo3fan30]

Connery = FRWL Lazenby = OHMSS (surprise) Moore = TSWLM Dalton = LTK (this one is very close. I've had TLD first forever, but recently shifted. Brosnan = GE Craig = CR

[@phila3884]

I have a new respect for Timothy Dalton after watching License to Kill for the first time a few weeks ago. I saw The Living Daylights in the theater when it first came out, but didn't get his serious take on the Bond character, having grown up with Roger Moore.

[@buffalopatriot]

If Dr. No had a pure end-to-end JOHN BARRY SCORE, there would be NO QUESTION about this movie being Connery's best. The scene in Miss Taro's 'lair' is completely brutal, i.e., his treatment of her and the killing of Professor Dent. Connery was beyond spectacular in 1962. I was a five year old kid, believe me.

[@jasonkim4314]

Dr No was ironically the final Bond movie I watched when I was first going thru series many years ago. But the topic of "how capable he is" was sooo spot on considering how I watched all other films w/ Q and his gadgets. Very detective Esq indeed

[@gocanuckurself1]

I love the current Bond films, but I miss simple missions that weren't personal and trying to shoehorn in some kind of awkward cinematic universe.

[@markymark2819]

Having watched all of Connerys Bonds recently I was reminded that his 007 time was very uneven. His final two are no where near the first four overall and I guess its where we prefer the more outlandish and bold elements of GF and TB or the more spy based, more serious elements of DN and FRWL. For me - Goldfinger is the most rounded. Dr No is in some ways ahead of its time however in some other ways, musical accompaniments in particular, are still quite "50s". Some parts are quite strong for the time (Dents assassination) while others are quite tame really. Certainly a great template!

[@natebaumgartner9958]

This is my favorite Connery Bond Move!

[@randallrutherford1384]

Mine too!

[@hdbaxter5438]

I'm with you two guys...THUNDERBALL is also my favorite Connery Bond Movie

[@4gegtyreeyuyeddffvyt]

Hd Baxter I know the underwater filming was groundbreaking for its day but it doesn’t hold up as well over time. I would loved to have been there to see it when it first came out. I’m sure the audience was very impressed!

[@lloydkline3265]

@@4gegtyreeyuyeddffvyt the boat fight at the end was weak, I like the sharks in the movie in the pool

[@randallrutherford1384]

1. Dr. No 2. Thunderball

[@randallrutherford1384]

1. Dr. No 2. Thunderball 3. From Russia With Love 4. Diamonds are Forever 5. You Only Live Twice 6. Goldfinger

[@DavyDredd14]

@@randallrutherford1384 6) Diamonds Are Forever - 5) You Only Live Twice - 4) Thunderball - 3) Dr. No - 2) Goldfinger - 1) From Russia With Love

[@Goldmember1208]

I think in Dr No, you can tell there are some scenes where Connery already owns the character, he even owns the whole room a couple time, a cocktail of suaveness and seriousness (when he orders to get the girl taking their picture for example) . I think the first movie of every actor is very good beside Live and Let Die in my opinion . It's funny to think there is no universal truth, just reading the comments about this video gives a good example ahah and that's how Bond Fans are ! And it's what makes it interesting to hear because people have a different angle sometimes.

[@TheBondExperience]

Exactly!

[@MrDublin2]

Ranking the best: 1) On Her Majesties Secret Service 2)Thunderball. 3) From Russia With Love. 4) Goldfinger 5) Never Say Never Again. 6) Diamonds Are Forever. 7) Licence To Kill. 7) The Living Daylights. 8) You Only Live Twice. 9) Man With The Golden Gun. - Forget The rest!

[@josephborst3306]

I love this style vlog! Please make more!

[@LJ-wm1bl]

Thunderball is my favourite bond film of all time. It’s cinematography and locations are beautiful, the women are stunning and the plot is outrageous! Connery balances humour and seriousness very well, the villain has an iconic look and the underwater battles set the bench mark for big action sequences. It was that good they even made a remake.

[@samuelbarber6177]

Connery is a freakin’ awesome in this film. Right out of the gate has that perfect swagger, that eyebrow, voice, style. He even has his own hair. He’s just everything in this one. He is perfect as 007, and that introductory scene. Might just be the coolest thing I’ve ever watched. Cubby, Harry and Terry knew that if the film was to be successful, they had to get Bond right, and boy did they. Dr. No isn’t my favourite or even my second or third favourite Connery but he is just… chef’s kiss. Not to mention how cool he is in scenes like his confrontation with Professor Dent. Connery is my favourite Bond. And even outside of Connery, you’ve got the beautiful Ursula Andress, the sinister Joseph Wiseman, the effortless cool of Jack Lord, Quarrel is one of my favourite Bond allies. I even like Anthony Dawson and Zena Marshall in this movie. Dawson is just so perfect and weasely as Dent. I never used to like Dr. No so much, but wow has my appreciation grown lately.

[@renekauts8323]

I love-love "Dr. No"(1962)! What a great James Bond film! There were so many right decisions from the very beginning! Which is amazing about this movie: the budget was only $1 100 000... However, the film is not cheap looking at all! It is on the contrary: a gorgeous looking film! Mainly thanks to Ken Adam, I understand. Of course, great director Terence Young and DP Ted Moore!

[@julietteahraribas5731]

Yes he is. gold finger is my favourite. great video!

[@joshandicoechea6770]

This had to do with Ian Fleming there as a advisor

[@MikeBixby]

David, I really enjoy your keeping the 007 experience alive in cyberspace. We met on Indy C O W years ago. You offer a fair and reasonable assessment of movies, gadgets, actors etc. I will be 64 this November. I was 8 when I first saw Dr No probably with my folks and / or older sister. By the time Goldfinger came around we rode our bikes or were dropped off at the theater for each anticipated Bond installment. Long time and forever fan. Specifically I / we didn't evaluate or consider undertones of chauvinism, racism or PC. RE: the scene you showed where Connery curtly tells Quarrel to fetch his things. Remember he was a hired local guide getting paid for his services. we didn't pump our own gas back then. Nothing racist. Men did 'manhandle' (take the initiative) women back then Men & Women embraced their roles and differences without too much analysis then. Sadly PC has infiltrated and is matasticizing and sucking the entertainment from our societies 'entertainment'. Fleming's 007 was an adventurous glorified image of our projected ideals. Exotic locales, women, fast cars, luxury. Connery is the epitome of the ideal man's man. I'm never going to be a Craig -as-007 fan but still have hope Barbara will get back to heroic men and pretty girls again and set the please all, appease all PC restraints aside. Keep the vlogs coming. Cheers

[@kimi88cz]

Thunderball is my favorite Connery movie

[@TheBondExperience]

Mine too!

[@deacondavis5098]

kimi88cz THUNDERBALL is the very first Bond film I was taken to see at 5 years old

[@lloydkline3265]

It had everything, great looking woman, great villains, fancy cars etc etc

[@cesarsantana007]

My favorite of Sean Connery is "From Russia With Love".

[@rkb4571]

Totally agree, Dr No was such a solid start, while Thunderball is overall Connery’s best.

[@davydevilution7297]

Top 3 Connery 007 : 1) FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE 2) GOLDFINGER 3) DR NO

[@ConnerTheEsquire]

I see. From what standpoint? If I may ask...

[@DavyDredd14]

@@ConnerTheEsquire Your standpoint on everything is the most important in existence...

[@ConnerTheEsquire]

@@DavyDredd14 Well I meant does he view those from a formula standpoint, a rating of adventure, action- that sorta thing.

[@MrKikopr]

Absolutely on point! He was introduced to us as a secret agent with a lot of class , debonair and yes, he kills . But not an assassin per-say. And is my humble opinion, Sean Connery still the best Bond. Timeless style. Oh yeah, He smokes. Great video guys.

[@alienlv426ify]

My favorite Connery Bond film is Goldfinger. In fact, Goldfinger was the first James Bond film I watched and it had a profound impact on me; the action, the car, the girls and...the music.

[@randallrutherford1384]

So glad to see the title of this video!

[@ryan201087martin]

You are probably all aware of this but the reason Bond is less playful and more serious on Dr No is because the movie is very book accurate, and in the book it was his first mission after almost being killed in From Russia With Love, and he was unhappy as the mission was seen as too easy for a 00 agent

[@mastroia0077]

Go the location dr no in jamaica man. Salute from brazil. Very nice channel.

[@donaldbishop5320]

My favorite Sean Connery 007 films: (1) From Russia With Love (2) Dr. No (3) Non Connery: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (4) For Your Eyes Only / The Spy Who Loved Me (5) The Living Daylights (6) Goldeneye (7) Casino Royale / Skyfall

[@jakeallen9868]

thunderball is my favourite feels there is more character develpment, goldfinger close second always feels towards the end of goldfinger it feels rushed needed like another twenty minutes

[@jamesbondradio]

Loooove Dr. No! So hard to choose between those first 4 Bonds. Thanks guys, I've been in bed all day with a bad case of Thai Belly, so this cheered me up. Looking forward to the next one! :-)

[@TheBondExperience]

That sounds painful!

[@phila3884]

Great analysis guys, though I wouldn't fret too much about the harsh treatment of Miss Taro in this first Bond movie. She was setting Bond up to be killed after all, and he (and she) knew it. In future movies, yes, there would be some indefensible conduct toward women, especially those that seemed to be unwitting pawns in the overall picture. I hope you continue this series, and review all the Bond movies eventually!

[@Dylan-rm7nt]

Great video guys!

[@westfield90]

In my opinion it’s From Russia With Love and GoldFinger.

[@jamesdelta6297]

If we're talking performances, it's an interesting thing to examine. In Connery's case possibly. Wanting to give it his all, give it his best, get it right in the first go. There's also the school of thought that by the third movie of each actor they are more assured and confident. It's then effortless. The evidence for that, Goldfinger, TSWLM, TWINE, SKYFALL. Shame Dalton never got his third movie.

[@JamesBondCanada]

Please please please more of these!!! and P.S. I want to get on one day as well!

[@TheBondExperience]

Hop a plane....you are always welcome!

[@RegginaldRiglet]

More joe and Dave !! You guys are the best

[@DeadJesterCinema]

love these videos guys.. i will say to counter your point on Dr No as a character not appearing on screen until 90 minutes into the movie - that the spectre of him (pun or no pun intended) is looming over the entire movie.. so he doesn't need to be introduced earlier, because he's constantly being name dropped, or some cases we only hear his voice - it creates a sort of larger than life omnipotence - and there is an aura of mystery surrounding him, that i feel would be lost had they introduced him much sooner.. i liken it to a horror movie showing too much of the monster.. the unknown is always scarier, and i think the slow burn of revealing Dr No - first it's just his name, then it's his voice, then his hands before he eventually reveals himself at the dinner is expertly done and built over the course of the film.

[@TheJamesBondComplex]

Dr. No is not the Best Connery film. Bu It's close. I feel is like the OG Star Wars. It has all the elements, but lacks refinement that will be added in later films.

[@kennyraicherter1264]

They need to go back to missions like this.

[@roosveltcinematicproductio2392]

David please a new Bond 25 update.😊

[@TheBondExperience]

Shortly!

[@4gegtyreeyuyeddffvyt]

Dr No is a classic if you don’t like it then something is wrong with you.

[@TriforceRich]

I strongly disagree that Dr. No and Live and Let Die are Connery's and Moore's best Bond movies respectively. For all the other Bonds though, I do think their first movie is the best.

[@SormonAusPol]

I agree it's not there 1st film its their 3rd: Goldfinger, The Spy Who Loved Me, The World is Not Enough (okay maybe not) and Skyfall. Shame Dolton didn't get a 3rd film.

[@guileniam]

@@SormonAusPol Skyfall was garbage

[@stephanerichard6267]

I agree that Jack Lord was the best Felix Leighter. Dr. no was a favorite of mine, the Connery films are so close in quality, its hard to choose.

[@WithoutTheLaw]

Thunderball is my favorite Connery bond film too! Thought I was the only one.

[@phmwu7368]

Dr No opening scene was filmed in a way to show all British colonial statues, Queen Victoria and the statue of Sir Charles Metcalfe governor of Jamaica 1839-1842... Important days for Jamaica as the island country became independant before the movie Dr No came out in August 1962. Filming Dr NO, some amzing background info and photographs can be seen here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHnaioeml6mria8

[@richardshears6435]

I think Bond 25 will take inspiration from Dr. No

[@geoffreygershon]

Good discussion guys! But I have to disagree.....Connery got better and better over his first few films, better in From Russia With Love and even better in Goldfinger. The rule you guys are discussing only really applies to Brosnan - Goldeneye is by far his best one though Casino Royale was really good with Daniel Craig, I just think Skyfall was even better.

[@AlmightyBruce]

Best film of each Bond: Connery: Goldfinger Lazenby: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service Moore: The Spy who Loved Me Dalton: License to Kill Brosnan: Goldeneye Craig: Casino Royale Worst Film of each Bond: Connery: Never Say Never Again Lazenby: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service Moore: A View to a Kill Dalton: The Living Daylights Brosnan: Die Another Day Craig: Quantum of Solace

[@dotothenn]

I would be rough with Ms.Taro too, if she just tried to have me killed, at least he showed restraint.

[@richposports7030]

He wears the suit, not the suit wearing him. Beautifully put. Make mine Connery as the No.1 Bond. That's some accolade. Warranted with his body o work though. Top vlog gents :))

[@sanjaykohli7360]

Spot on review

[@jedi666sith]

Hi David THIS IS URGENT!!!! What is the real web page for the kirk patrick leather holster ??? Because they are two. Can you tell me which one is the correct one? Thank you!!! I loved this review!!!

[@TheBondExperience]

Sorry, I am not quite sure....but if you email them just tell them you want the one in The Bond Experience video.

[@jedi666sith]

@@TheBondExperience I'm not refering to the model but the web page. Because there are two. Which one did you use? kirkpatrickleather.com or kirkpatrickleathergear.com/????

[@MrSuperphil]

Thunderball is my favourite

[@nashf5925]

My fave Connery films are Goldfinger, perfect balance of action, comedy and drama. Otherwise, it's YOLT for its epic scope and scale from the budget, fx, score, gadgets, locations and global impact of the villain's scheme. And who could forget the reveal of Blofeld, after all the previous teases? That's like if ever seeing Dr Claw from the old Inspector Gadget cartoons.

[@eazye619]

Connery movies ranked to me: 1-From Russia with Love 2-Thunderball 3-Goldfinger 4-You Only Live Twice 5-Dr. No 6-Diamond Are Forever

[@JamesBondCanada]

Yes the Monkey was going to be called Dr. No and then their was to be a human Villain called something else. That was just in Richard Maibaums Script but obviously never was actually filmed.

[@epicon6]

Bond’s don’t stream anywhere and i don’t want to buy them separately and never remember to buy them when i have 125$, so i haven’t seen any classic bonds since forever :(

[@epicon6]

The Fonz Yeah illeagally downloading them is a great way to support the franchise and the movie industry you fuckin idiot. At least i buy my shit unlike your ugly ass.

[@qwertymanor]

It's on Netflix now

[@GluttonforPunishment]

Loyal to the novel? Fleming killed Dr No with bird feces.

[@leitercia]

LOL! Touche!

[@cockshield]

Honey: "Where's Dr. No?" Bond: "He was always full of shit"

[@T3L3cast3r]

Honey: "Where's Dr. No?" Bond: "..... O crap!"

[@nooctip]

They said most loyal. This versus Moonraker in terms of keeping to the book? No contest.

[@leslauner5062]

Well...that and the Bond vs the squid scene.....

[@DrewHannush]

Thank John Williams and Star Wars for the never ending music. I think it was the last movie of the prequels where they had their first moment without music. Love Dr. No. I sometimes think I could rank it in a tie with Goldfinger as far as Connery movies go, because of how trendsetting it is.

[@randallrutherford1384]

I watch Doctor No and loved it then I watched from Russia with Love and I loved it and then I was so excited to watch goldfinger what I already knew was world-renowned the most popular one and for some reason goldfinger just did not do it for me like the first two had and I really really wanted it for like it and for it to live up to its reputation. Now I actually do like goldfinger but not as much as dr. No or from Russia with Love.

[@DrewHannush]

@@randallrutherford1384 sometimes the anticipation and build up really cause a low opinion on first watch. I try not to let others sway me, but it does happen.

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

Why did you show the clips in Black and white?

[@underzog]

I think this James Bond film was quite good, too. Ayn Rand thought so also; however, I got into a small row with Calvin over it. He did not like a particular piece of music when the "Three Blind Mice" tried to kill Bond with pistols, but a car got in their way. Bond commentator Calvin hated the music while I loved it.

[@lorddaver5729]

Why are the clips in black and white? The film was made in colour...

[@gordonbrandt9739]

Best of Connery; I prefer "From Russia With Love" followed by "Dr. No". On a side note I remember reading somewhere that Bond & Moneypenny had a "bankers holiday" (a British term for an office affair?) early on prior to the assignment in "Casino Royal" & afterward decided that it wouldn't work. So maybe all that "playfulness" between them in the films was just a salute to their past relationship. Also Fleming states very clearly in "Casino Royal" that Bond prefers married ladies to single ones; talk about something not acceptable in 1962.

[@timothythomas1626]

What about Connery's Interview Just After DR NO in Playboy. When he say's It's OK to Slap a Women Around Now and Then to keep them in Line. That would start a hurricane in today's Crazyness.

[@finnmccool684]

Goldfinger. Dr. No. From Russia with Love. In that order.

[@kevincooke3882]

I think the reason why the first film of a particular Bond actor is good, is because they have more time to prepare the film. Sorry if you disagree, but I find the Brocolli’s, to be both the success and worst part of the franchise. It’s good they keep the style of Bond throughout the films, with the cinematography, music etc. However, I find them also to money grabbing. This leads to sometimes ridiculous product placements (BMW cars, whaat?), and worst of all, the rushing out of a follow up film to a successful one. The quick follow up films, are usually the worst ones. For example, Casino Royale - good, QoS - meh, Skyfall - good, Spectre - meh.

[@liquidgeorge]

You are way too kind in calling Quantum of Solace 'meh'.

[@DoucheandDominoMark007]

@@liquidgeorge I know right. Because that movie is a load of boredem. Even back in 2008 walking into the theatre, I wasn't expecting it to be better then Casino Royale because it was legendary, but after watching this pile of crap they called a bond movie, it felt like an insult. I would rather see bond wind surfing then watch QOS again. Too many flaws in that film.

[@rocky-o]

dr. no was the first bond film i saw in the theatre...(yes i'm extremely old)....i fell in love with the character and started reading the novels because of it...i have seen every movie since, but you bring up a great point about viewing it thru '20/20' vision (pun intended)....i watched this film and like many males my age, wanted to grow up and be as cool as bond, and 'act' like bond...some of us actually coming close...but...for those of us that did see this as the ultimate way to be, nowadays it's considered the worst way to be...i wanna flirt with moneypenny...i want to be able to see a beautiful woman and let her know she's beautiful...i wanna make a snarky remark and it be poignant...all these things these days are sadly rejected...we've bubblewrapped society and viewing these films cannot be viewed with current philosophies...that having been said...nice job guys....

[@gf4670]

Like a lot of people, I rate Connery's first four differently. It's like asking whether Bela Lugosi's Dracula or The Maltese Falcon still hold up. Does it matter? They're classic and fundamental. But yeah, all things considered, Dr. No is probably the weakest of those four, but like you guys said, it also sort of gets a pass because there was no precedent. And the thing is, when you look at it through the lens of a 1962 film, it's really good. And when you look at it through the lens of a 1962 film made for $1 million, which was fairly small even then, it's actually kind of an amazing film.

[@sexydiverguy]

To me Thunderball rules , if not for that Flipper and Sea Hunt I never would have been a diver let a lone a Master Scuba Diver Instructor.. Thunderball is my film.

[@Plally06]

great work addressing the thorny issues of outdated attitudes and norms in that film. The one thing I'd say on that is that while we may not have thought much about a white actress playing an Asian character, it's not really up to us but to the people whose race is being depicted on screen. How will they feel about it? So it's probably a good thing we've moved on from that. Love the pairing of two heavyweight Bond fans btw

[@unsolicited577]

Paul Lally this is a great observation. A bit of trivia: Margaret LeWars (photographer) was up for the role of Ms. Taro but declined because of the sensuality that was required. It’s challenging for many of us to look at certain scenes with 21st century eyes. Being African-American, two of the Quarrel scenes are problematic but given the time period, understandable. The great thing is that the series has evolved over the years; which is why it has endured over the years.

[@Macca-95]

Okay Paul, If it's up to the people of the race depicted then what is the responce if I as a white person say that I want every production of Shakespeare performed in Asia to either be shut down or have 100% white actors in it? After all it is my race being depicted.

[@Plally06]

@@Macca-95 the response is that's comparing apples and pears

[@Plally06]

@@Macca-95 I think there's clearly a difference though between staging a play on a continent where the cast, crew and audience will mostly be Asian. It doesn't make sense to start bringing in Danes to play Hamlet and so on. We're talking about something different, a central white hero character and his interactions with people of other races in an international film. For the same reasons we don't want any actors to 'black up' anymore or to give a ludicrously cliched portrayals (remember the Charlie Chan films?) , we want to avoid trite cliche and stereotype both because audiences wont' accept it and it would likely let down an otherwise good script. Whether you think it's wrong or not, it won't sell to Asian audiences either. In my opinion, I like it when we have a strong international cast and characters in Bonds and other films.

[@Plally06]

@@unsolicited577 So they almost cast a Jamaican actress as a Chinese character? Interesting. Maybe there was just a shortage of Asian actors about

[@attackofthecopyrightbots]

Yep

[@o.comic.g.3796]

Ranking my favourite Connery Bond outings: 1. Goldfinger (favourite Bond film period) 2. From Russia With Love (6th overall) 3. Thunderball (10th overall) 4. Dr. No (12th overall) 5. Diamonds Are Forever (overall 17th) 6. You Only Live Twice (overall 18th). 7. Never Say Never Again (overall 23rd). Enjoying the discussion.

[@SNEED456]

I saw Dr.No in the theater in 1962. Back then men and women (middle class and upper)had much more insight into each other, and treated each with more understanding and compassion than today. The Moneypenny Bond interplay could seen any day. Bond treats women as a mature healthy adult man. In other words they can be villains, and he can treat them as such if necessary. Don't mistake that for misogyny. As for Quarrel, I can tell you from personal experience, black people do not respect wishy washy leadership. They are proud and emotional (quote from Kanye West) they want a boss who is firm and confident, and will walk all over a wimp. Oh, and Dr. No is in my top five.

[@aaaht3810]

I also saw Dr. No when first released. I do not think this was Connery’s best Bond film simply because he was new to the role and was not quite as polished as an actor and as he appeared in subsequent films (scripts also got better). Connery certainly did lay the foundation for the 007 image in Dr. No. I don’t think anything like it had been seen by movie goers. It was something really different. As far as the sexism and racism, I really think Dr. No needs to be judged through the lens of the year 1962. Bond could be rough in his treatment of women, but I guarantee you the most female viewers of the film left the theater wanting to be conquered by Connery. Never thought of any racism toward Quarrel until saw this video. As far as fetching shoes, you could argue 007 was in command of the mission to Crab Key and Quarrel was his subordinate. He was just giving an order in the rush of taking cover. As for myself, I think FRWL was the best film of the franchise.

[@SNEED456]

@@aaaht3810 Good reply, Personally I find Connery's nervousness and lack of polish add to the effect of realism. He is dealing with murderers and fanatics, good reason to be nervous.

[@aaaht3810]

Rubicon Five, Point taken. I certainly feel Connery did a great job in Dr. No. There are three scenes in which his performance was perfect and as far as I am concerned defined the persona of James Bond in the history of film making and, in my opinion, secured Connery's place as the best 007. Those are: The casino scene with Sylvia, the killing of professor Dent, and the confrontation between himself and Dr. No over dinner.

[@SNEED456]

@@aaaht3810 Yes

[@SNEED456]

“I admire your luck…Mr. ?” “You’ve had your six” The interplay between Miss Taro and Bond, the tension when he rolls up the towel, and later she spits in his face. Not the usual love scene. Sex on a level of detachment by both parties. Dr. No is the best of Bond villains. He actually appears sinister, fanatical, and intelligent. Wiseman would be the perfect Blofeld. Most of the subsequent master villains range from a bit to complete camp. The ending of Dr. No is weak. The name alone is probably the best name in Fleming. “You are just a stupid policeman”. Food for thought. It will be interesting to see how Bond fares in the PC era. One feminist reviewer described the entire Craig opus as dripping with guilt.

[@flogalvez82]

I’ve gotta go with Thunderball as Mr. Connery’s best, followed by From Russia With Love, Dr. No, You Only Live Twice, Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever And Yes! Dr. No is fantastic! Totally solid spy film!

[@leslauner5062]

My rankings for each actor? Sean Connery-Goldfinger George Lazenby-On Her Majesty's Secret Service Roger Moore-For Your Eyes Only Timothy Dalton-The Living Daylights Pierce Brosnon-Goldeneye Daniel Craig-Skyfall(Casino Royale is almost a tie with this)

[@QHarefield]

If my memory serves me well, the reason the crabs all looked dead is .... because they were. They arranged for a whole load of crabs to be brought in and the poor things all died in transit.

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

There was one quick line that may easily be overlooked if you are not paying attention that might be considered racist. Bond says to Quarel, "Quarel fetch my shoes!"

[@AnthonyP73]

The pattern holds for me for all Bonds except Connery, I can't rank Goldfinger lower than the others. It's just a complete sentimental favourite for me, although Dr No definitely occupies a top 10 spot in my rankings.

[@klaudiagrob]

I think I loved Goldfinger the most from the Connery's portrayal

[@pjschroeder76]

Yes Thunderball!

[@user-uc3lc1ou3i]

I think Bond actors get the hang of it at their third movies.

[@laapache1]

14 years on up

[@geoffreygershon]

Best Connery Bonds: 1. Goldfinger 2. You Only Live Twice 3. From Russia With Love 4. Never Say Never Again 5. Dr. No 6. Thunderball 7. Diamonds Are Forever

[@underzog]

I was quite crushed when Quarrel was killed.

[@kurtcobain7886]

Okay so This does apply to some bond actors/films Dr no: no I would say Goldfinger is his best film On her majesty’s secret service: it’s Lazenby’s only film as bond so yeah I guess Live and let die: yeah it’s great it carries on from on her majesty’s secret service ( not directly like quantum of solace ) but it links aspects of it and it introduces ya to this new hilarious take on bond ) The living daylights: now this is the obvious very controversial one maybe along with Pierce Brosnan but yeah I would say that it does not apply here personally I think license to kill is better than the living daylights and it actually makes bond kinda relatable and he isn’t just facing of an evil Russian general or a spectre agent he’s facing of a drug lord and getting revenge against him for what he did to his best friend Thai is definitely the darkest film in the bond franchise Goldeneye: another controversial one it’s kinda hard to choose between twine and goldeneye but ultimately I would agree and say goldeneye it just perfectly introduces us to Brosnans bond and he is funny and he is very punny to but he’s also very cold hearted in the way he kills both Alec Trevelyan and Elektra king later in the franchise but this film introduces us to what it’s like for bond to have to up against a friend and be betrayed by someone he regarded and saw highly and damn that opening sequence is just so good Casino royale: now this is the obvious one and I think casino royale wins as it introduces us to gritty action bond and vesper is just awesome Eva green really plays the part well and the action stunts are amazing especially in the begging when bond is on the construction site

[@KawasakiKiteh]

You Only Live Twice. Best and never remade. Yet...

[@leslauner5062]

Sure it was. The villain plot was identical in "The Spy who loved Me." Think about it. YOLT-megalomaniac with a spacecraft that "eats" spacecraft of USA and USSR in attempt to start WWIII TSWLM-megalomaniac with a supertanker that "eats" submarines of USA and USSR in attempt to start WWIII

[@MORCOPOLO0817]

The problem with Connery is that he let himself go. He indulged in the drink and by the time Thunderball was being filmed he was really showing his age. Maybe this has something to do with the pressures of fame after hitting it big with the Bond role.

[@sircopperfield7420]

To me Dr. No is Connery's best, and 3rd best overall.

[@rapscallion896]

Connery will always be bond 1.goldfinger,2.on her majesty's secret service,3. diamonds are forever, 4.live and let die, 5.the man with the golden gun, 6.you only live twice, 7.from Russia with love, 8.the spy who loved me, 9.dr no, 10.thunderball,11.the living daylights, 12.licence to kill, 13.goldeneye,14.tomorrow never dies, 15.moonraker,16.for your eyes only, 17.casino Royale, 18.octopussy,19.a view to a kill, 20.the world is not enough, 21.skyfall,22.die another day, 23.quantum of solace, 24.spectre. Every bond fan has their favourites

[@elliotness11]

First saw Dr No in the 80s as my first Bond film and it is such a stripped down perfect espionage movie. I didn’t see anything racist in the movie, until i was made aware of it. Didn’t see it then and don’t see it now

[@Asshole88]

I've said this for years.