For Your Eyes Only

Directed by: John Glen

Screenplay by: Richard Maibaum, Michael G. Wilson

Based on the book by: Ian Fleming

Cinematography by: Alan Hume

Editor: John Grover

Cast: Roger Moore, Carole Bouquet and Topol

Year: 1981

 

Considering how ludicrous and absurd Moonraker turned out to be, I'm quite amazed how much of a change of tone this film took as its follow up. You have to thank editor-cum-director John Glen for taking up the challenge of bringing Bond back to Earth (terrible pun, I know) by bringing us the most believable and grittiest Bond that Roger Moore would ever portray. 

Sure, there are many flaws-- the weak opening theme song is forgotten as soon as it's over. At times the film seems like a big advertisement for the Winter Olympics and the Bond girls in this one are probably some of the most bland and annoying ever paired with 007. However, you gotta love the little references to 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service' (his wife's grave, Blofeld, James' high speed escape in his blue ski jacket, the beach scene, etc...) 

The humour is spot on; clever but not over the top and childish (except for how they get rid of Blofeld) and Topol (AKA Colombo) plays one of Bond's most badass sidekicks (Felix Leiter never kicked this much ass) who is just dripping with charisma. And I was delighted to see Julian Glover as the villain (the only actor to ever act in the Star Wars, Indiana Jones and James Bond franchises). Plus, the mountaineering scene from the film's third act is one of the most thrilling, suspenseful and original moments I have yet seen in the series. If you love Roger Moore as Bond, this has got to be one of your favourites.

3.5 out of 5