Diamonds Are Forever-1971
Director Guy Hamilton
Starring Sean Connery
Top 250 Films #100
Scott’s Review #328
Reviewed January 6, 2016
Grade: A
Despite Diamonds Are Forever (1971) being one of the lower-rated James Bond films, this is actually one of my favorite films of all time, and many would disagree with me.
Some say Sean Connery phoned this performance in; others say there was little chemistry between him and Jill St. John, and the sets were tense, leading to a sub-par offering. But I think this is a great film.
I love the Las Vegas locale, the bright lights, flashy costumes, and a ritzy underbelly- and the Vegas car chase is incredible.
A bright, shiny Ford Mustang takes center stage throughout the sequence, and if one looks closely, one will realize that nearly all the cars are Ford- fun fact!
The title song by Shirley Bassey is great, sultry and stylish, only enhanced by the glitzy setting. One immediately imagines the film oozing with diamonds as it does.
The villains are fascinating, and Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd were the first openly gay Bond villains, which, in 1971, was groundbreaking.
Yes, they are evil and slightly silly, but what a risky, surprising, and blatant scene to see the gentlemen holding hands.
St. John is a sophisticated and intelligent Bond girl, and the action in this film is plenty.
Diamonds Are Forever (1971) contains all the elements for an enjoyable Bond experience.
Oscar Nominations: Best Sound
