From Russia With Love (1963)
Overall Ranking- 4th
Sean Connery’s second turn as James Bond proves to be his best, in my opinion. This movie was previously ranked 3rd in my mind until the successful Casino Royale came out more recently. From the opening scene to the fight on the Orient Express to the many action packed scenes to follow, this movie is what old school action and adventure is about.
I particularly liked Red Grant, the villain played by Robert Shaw. His transformation from seemingly mindless brute to sophisticated match for Bond is one of my favorite villain transformations. Rosa Klebb is also one of the most ruthless female villains in any Bond film, and her poison tipped shoe is a great weapon.
The musical score for this film is also one of the many Bond scores that captured my attention.
My only real complaint with this film would be in the area of “Bond Girls.” Tatiana Romanova was attractive, yet did not really capture my attention as a Bond girl the way that Honey Ryder or Melena did.
For overall enjoyment, this Bond film ranks high for me. Overshadowed only by some films that were closer to my generation, this early film manages to hold its own with this Bond fan, and will likely remain a top choice of mine for years to come.