On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)

Directed by: Peter Hunt

Screenplay by: Richard Maibaum

Based on the novel by: Ian Fleming

Players: George Lazenby, Diana Rigg, Terry Savalas

Setup: In the sixth outing for the character, James Bond (now played for the first time by someone other than Sean Connery; George Lazenby) pursues Spectre's Blofeld into the Swiss Alps, all while falling in love with a wealthy source's daughter and using any chance he can to break the fourth wall (because, you know, its fun to take an audience out of an awesome movie).

Review: This being the domestic release week for Skyfall, I have a whole schedule lined up to commemorate not only the new release but also the 50th Anniversary of the Bond series (that is, 50 years since the release of Dr. No).  I had actually planned on reviewing Killer Klowns from Outer Space (if it sounds like shit...) or Session 9 (a solid suspense thriller for Halloween), but as I also had Geroge Lazenby as my next Bond to revisit, I decided to have a go at critiquing an entry I was overall unfamiliar with.  I've only seen it once in its entirety, yet it made such an impression that I knew I'd have to view it again regardless of that fact I'm a self-proclaimed Bond aficionado (i.e. know way too much regarding trivia, while making Martinis with cheap vodka).  Along with this fact, I had some trepidation writing about it, and whether or not my musings should be on the film alone or including mention of other films.  Suffice it to say, I decided to mainly focus on this film instead of rambling about with comparisons to other Bond films as On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, though sometimes unjustly attacked for containing a less than stellar Bond actor, is definitely a solid Bond film.

Following in the footsteps of the entertaining yet arguably ridiculous antics of You Only Live Twice, OHMSS is a breath of fresh air.  The world of Bond is inherently ridiculous, but this film delivers with a believable approach, especially regarding the romance between Bond and Tracy (played wonderfully by Diana Rigg).  As Lazenby is obviously younger than his predecessor (though only two years younger than Connery when he made his debut), it could almost be argued this is a prequel of sorts to James's previous antics, with the vital love story giving depth to Bond's future character and displaying pleasure mixed with business, instead of the other way around.  The happiness displayed and developed only adds to future tensions when the plot builds around the 30-minute mark (only beginning to surface here, a rarity in the franchise but admirable or purposes of pacing and depth during the 140 minute run time).

 

One can’t help but be impressed with the detailed yet simple layout of geography for all to see (and NO volcano lairs as seen in the previous film).  There are multiple locales throughout, yet each one is prepped for us before the action takes place (especially true at Blofeld’s Ski Resort).  Consistency is also an admirable trait here, keeping action scenes relevant based on the environment they are located in.  They’re also fairly revolutionary to boot, as James Bond skis for the first time (of many future instances) on celluloid.  Long time Bond Editor and Second Unit Director Peter Hunt (taking the reigns here as Director) shows his veteran colors with patience and a thorough knowledge of what works for Bond, especially in the action which is genereally good, though spotty at times with slightly jarring cuts.  He also shows appreciation for the source material as the film follows the Ian Fleming novel page for page (must be good; the story here is great). 

While there is easy evidence for praise here, its not difficult to encounter faults front and center.  Ask a crowd who their favorite Bond is, and you'll end up with one sole soul in the back timidly shouting “Hoohrah” for George Lazenby.  Though not as bad as some make out, Lazenby lacks true believability as a suave secret agent.  He looks the part, but lazy acting, sudden Austrailian accents, and apparent brash youth does not help believeability.  Also, while dubbing is a mainstay of the series (either due to bad sound or an actor/actress being foreign) I don’t think a Bond has been dubbed over as much as Lazenby.  This does not occur the whole film, and it does sound like Lazenby dubbing over himself, but regardless of the reason I cannot help but consciously think about it throughout. 

Despite my problems with the film, they are minor and On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is overall a fantastic standout in the world’s longest running film series.  Give George Lazenby a chance, and you may come away with respect for this film.  For transparency’s sake, it’s probably in my Bond top 5 (a sacred list, to be sure).

 

Tidbit: Sean Connery was offered 1 million dollars to reprise his role for this film but declined.  I repeat: 1 MILLION DOLLARS.  Who’s to say what this awesome story would’ve been like with his company?

Drink of Choice: Please...

• 3 parts Vodka
• 1 part Vermouth

 Mix ingredients with ice.  Serve up.

 Oh!  And make sure you shake it!  Do not, I REPEAT, do not stir!!!