Sixth Bond film and one of the most interesting movies in the series. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service offers a different set of sensibilities. It is a risky new approach that works in unexpected ways. I think it is the only film in the entire franchise that does manage to break away from the standard formula; most of the new visual touches feel fresh and exciting. The pre-titles sequence is bizarre and the lack of a title tune helps reinforce the idea that we are dealing with a different kind of bird. There is very little humor in the film – most of the movie has this sober, austere quality.
While it is true that On Her Majesty’s Secret Service has some spectacular action sequences, director Peter Hunt’s (editor of previous Bond movies) emphasis is on plot and characterizations. The film has more talk than action, but it doesn’t matter, Hunt is still able to convey a sense of urgency that keeps the plot moving at a fast pace (at least one feels things are happening pretty fast). The narrative is rock-solid thanks to Richard Maibaum’s multi-layered script. Also, Maibaum’s exploration of Bond is a bit deeper than usual.
There is also a great desire to embrace realism – the movie has none of the over-the-top, overblown sequences that over the years had turned 007 into a comic-book hero. I think one could change the names of the characters and still have a believable movie about espionage. The cast is wonderful. I have heard some complaints about Telly Savalas (as the nefarious Blofeld), but I think he gives a wonderfully restrained performance. It is too bad that Savalas was not asked to reprise the role of Blofeld.
Diana Rigg gives the film an air of elegance and credibility; in my view, she gives the best performance in a Bond movie. She’s beautiful, temperamental, and when needed, capable of kicking butt – in other words, one could see why Bond decides to marry her. Rigg turns a cardboard into a flesh and bones human being.
Australian model George Lanzeby replaces Sean Connery, and contrary to popular wisdom, he is effective. Yes, he does not have Connery’s charisma or Moore’s sophistication, and he is a little awkward during the first sequences. However, as the story unfolds, Lanzeby looks more and more confident and the fact that it looks like he is doing most of his stunts, is a plus in my book. I like his Bond very much.
My only complaint is that for a film that tries so hard to convey a sense of continuity (watch the montage during the title sequence), it is strange to see that Blofeld doesn’t recognize Bond (after all, they had a face to face conversation in the previous movie). Anyhow, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is definitely one of the very best Bond movies and one of the best action/espionage movies ever made. Even non-fans will love it.
