Review of Diamonds Are Forever (1971) by Chris G — 26 Nov 2008

Sean Connery returns for his last OFFICIAL James Bond film that begins as a mediocre smuggling case but slowly becomes yet another plot for world domination. After returning from a holiday that was relaxing, but "satisfying" Bond is sent on a mission to determine the rungs of a diamond smuggling ring. The mission takes 007 to Holland, Las Vegas, and the middle of the Pacific as the conspiracy grows beyond anyone's wildest imaginations.

Connery's last foray as a real Bond is as over the top as the get with him throwing out one liners left and right. Connery is Bond, so it doesn't matter that he's only here for the high pay check. Charles Gray plays Blofeld, which is odd because he was killed as Henderson in You Only Live Twice. He lends something to the Blofeld role not seen before (and we're not talking about hair). Jill St. John is the lead Bond girl Tiffany Case, who is the first attempt at the now thirty five year old idea of making a "different Bond girl (I will discuss that at a later date). She has an attitude, but is still in "Oh James" mode whenever Connery is on screen. And I cannot forget mentioning two of the greatest henchmen ever created: Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd. Yes, apparently they are gay.

Diamonds are Forever is a downscaled film that even though it has a world domination theme by the end plays like a standard mission that isn't mired in excessive lairs and such. A great Bond and a fitting send off for Connery from the series (unless he comes back as "M". A boy can hope).