Dr. No

In this first film in a franchise that has spanned six decades to date on film, we are introduced to the world of international espionage in which James Bond is agent 007. Ian Fleming’s literary character is brought to life by the person who is, for many, the definitive Bond for the screen, Sean Connery. The reasons why he is so highly regarded are all evidenced in Dr No. In this one film, practically all the elements that we consider part of Bond are laid in place, and the actors who followed will only copy and emulate these tics, maybe tuning them to match their own style, but still retaining that Connery aspect. From our introduction to Bond, playing cards at a table – a scene which shows only his hands, manipulating cards, glass of drink (no doubt vodka Martini, shaken not stirred) and cigarettes before panning up to show his face as he introduces himself as, “Bond…James Bond!” – to the flirting with M’s secretary, Miss Moneypenny, and the Bond-girls, every aspect that we consider to be ‘Bond’ had foundations laid so firmly in this film.

Looking back on the film now, it would be easy to sneer at how the film has aged. The technology, set designs, and styles are dated obviously, but despite these superficial factors, the film is just as well made and presented today as it was on first release. As a result, the film has a timeless quality and, thanks to an excellent restoration by Lowry, it looks amazing on HD TVs of the modern era. The plot is a great introduction to the world of Bond, with him investigating a fellow agent’s disappearance in Jamaica, and the film also throws out a classic villain in the guise of the sinister Dr No, who has an elaborate lair and a physical shtick (something which is a theme with Bond villains). The brilliant mind of Dr No, shunned by political powers, is the traditional megalomaniac with plans for world domination, and he acts as a simple introduction to the mass organisation of SPECTRE, whom we will encounter throughout the Connery era.

The film was considerably low budget a production at the time, with the studio expecting a flop. The books were known for their very British feel, and oft criticised for the violence and sexual content. However, with the low budget, the film makers relied on making the most of every shot, and delivered something that has, over time, become widely appreciated as one of the stronger of the franchise. Even despite the fact that spoofs such as the Austin Powers series have mocked the elaborate death traps, eccentric villains, and cheap looking action, this film still manages to thrill and excite. The long-gone era of spending time setting up characters and scenes is appreciated when weighed against the modern fascination of packing an explosion in every five minutes. At the same time, in this age where swift edits and shaking camera tell us that we need to be in the action to appreciate it, seeing long shots of fights is all the more thrilling – yes, we actually see people punch, kick, and flip…. amazing!

The decades have been kind to this film, and it is a great start to the series of films. The Blu-ray edition does the film immense justice, and the wealth of extras offer an insight into the restoration of the series, the design of the film, the weapons of Bond, and an insightful commentary, amongst varied other features. A must own for any fan.