Review of Dr. No (1962) by David B — 27 Sep 2012

While I acknowledge the fact that DN has some of the most well known and iconic moments of the series, at times it feels a mile away from FRWL. I don't know, it's been a good 4 years since I last watched it but I must admit I've never been blown away by it.

Yes we get the most famous intro in film history, Dent's cold execution and Andress legendary sequence and the tense tarantula moment, seeing Bond without gadgets living on his wits and also Joseph Wiseman's haunting title villain and of course Connery's electrifying debut.

Though outside of this and I'll probably get flamed as a Bond heretic it seems incredibly underwhelming and at times I lost interest in it, I find it hard to believe anyone would think this is the best film of the series. I've never thought it a particularly amazing film, that being said Ken Adam set design is simple but effective and the script delivers some good dialogue and getting to see it on Blu ray for the first time is indeed an experience, it looks exceptional.

I think the fact we have to endure (outside of the constant use of the JB theme and the memorable catchy songs) Monty Norman's well below substandard score, at times it sounds like some Max Steiner knock off, it certainly shows the importance of Barry and what he bought to the series and the music here just doesn't make you feel like you are watching a Bond film just some exotic detective thriller.

I know it's the first and yes I have to understand it was before the familiar traits were introduced but FRWL just is a so much a better film, this isn't to fault Young he's working with what he's got and him and Connery are giving their best but you feel that with FRWL they got into their stride and really got to show off the character proper.

I'm sorry I have to say what I see and Dr No just didn't get my blood pumping.