Review of Dr. No (1962) by Wesley M — 20 Dec 2009

What you have here is a working Prototype of every Bond movie that has been made since. It set up many of well known and well loved bond standbys, yet the series would not quite come into its own for a few more years.

Dr. No is a very entertaining if only mildly thrilling adventure that introduces to the character of agent 007 and gives us a tiny bit of insight into his character and motivations. He's debonair, womanizing, charming, suave, sophisticated yet gruff, and is either extremely loyal to his country or has extreme disregard for his own wellbeing. Most of this comes across not through the dialogue but through Bond's actions, as Sean Connery creates what is and shall always be the definitive James Bond. Bond adds a subtle, nuanced layer to what could be a completely flat character, turning him into someone we care about and can root for. Although the movie gets cheesy and downright campy at certain times, Connery lends it credibility and keeps it grounded in the man. He is the perfect star for this series.

The film as a whole has stood the test of time. The plot is simple enough, the mystery element is resolved quite quickly and the plot moves quickly but there is still plenty of time for Bond to get into all sorts of dangerous and titillating situations and somehow get out of them unscathed. It also takes the time to introduce us to S.P.E.C.T.R.E., the shady organization that will provide 007 with plenty of the challenges in the future films. There are very few gadgets, very few frills, but it all comes together to form a satisfying whole, and it sets a bar that would be passed with each movie as the series evolved into the classic spy tale it is known for.

We owe a lot to Sean Connery, Ursala Andress, and Dr. No. This is movie that deserves respect and acknowledgement even as it may not be as big and flashy as it siblings. I for one am very thankful that it exists.