“Icons Unearthed: James Bond” tells the story of how Ian Fleming’s literary creation got his big break on the silver screen and became the most quotable name in cinematic history. With a formula for success in place, the producers bet the franchise on an unknown face who would prove to be more than they could handle.
“Bond, James Bond” – these three simple words have become more than just a catchphrase; they’re part of our cultural DNA. The 007 franchise kicked off in 1962 with “Dr. No” and has since grown into a cinematic powerhouse, delivering twenty-five official films and showcasing six talented actors in the legendary role. From Connery to Craig, each Bond brought something unique to the table, helping the series rake in an impressive $7.67 billion worldwide. Even with Amazon MGM Studios taking the reins from longtime producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, Bond’s future looks bright – after all, you don’t let a gold mine like this sit idle.
Sean Connery started it all, transforming from unknown actor to international star through five groundbreaking films. But success came with a price – tensions over money soured his relationship with producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman. When they claimed Bond’s appeal lay in the character rather than the actor, Connery walked away after “You Only Live Twice.”
Enter George Lazenby, the bold Australian model who landed the role on pure guts and screen presence. His single outing, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” has aged like fine wine, now considered among the series’ best. Despite his raw acting chops, Lazenby’s performance was elevated by stellar castmates Diana Rigg and Telly Savalas. His early exit – sparked by some questionable career advice – remains one of Hollywood’s great missed opportunities.
The franchise then saw Connery briefly return for 1971’s “Diamonds Are Forever” before Roger Moore took over for seven films, ending with “A View to a Kill.” Timothy Dalton followed with a grittier, more Fleming-faithful Bond across two films, “The Living Daylights” and “Licence to Kill.” After a lengthy pause, Pierce Brosnan, who nearly got the role years earlier, finally got his shot, starring in four successful adventures.
Daniel Craig’s era marked a fresh start, exploring Bond’s rookie days as 007. His five-film journey wrapped up with “No Time to Die,” though his character’s fate likely signals a new direction rather than a definitive conclusion. With four years having passed since Craig’s farewell, the series seems poised to return to its usual two-year release pattern.
The documentary “Icons Unearthed: James Bond” offers a deep dive into the franchise, including fascinating looks at oddities like the comedic 1967 “Casino Royale” adaptation and Connery’s unofficial comeback in “Never Say Never Again.” The film features revealing interviews with Lazenby, Caroline Munroe, Gloria Hendry, and key creative forces like directors Martin Campbell and John Glen, along with industry insiders Jeff Kleeman and writer Jeffrey Caine.
While Dalton, Brosnan, and Craig are notably absent from the documentary, the insights from Campbell (who helmed both “Goldeneye” and “Casino Royale”) and Glen (director of five Bond films) provide crucial perspective on the franchise’s journey. Their stories, particularly about the end of the Broccoli-Saltzman partnership and Albert R. Broccoli’s solo leadership, shed light on the series’ inner workings.
For anyone fascinated by 007’s legacy, “Icons Unearthed: James Bond” serves as an essential guide to this enduring cultural phenomenon. Its thorough exploration of Bond’s history and impact makes it worthwhile viewing for casual moviegoers and die-hard fans alike.
Now available on Blu-ray™ from MILL CREEK ENTERTAINMENT
