Ranking Roger Moore’s Bond Films: A Comprehensive Guide
From Live and Let Die to A View to a Kill, Roger Moore portrayed James Bond with a unique blend of humor and seriousness. In this comprehensive guide, we rank Moore's seven Bond films, providing insights into the storytelling, action, and the impact of each film on the James Bond franchise.
The Spy Who Loved Me (Top Tier)
The Spy Who Loved Me, released in 1977, is a standout in Roger Moore’s Bond filmography. It kicks off the series with a bang, introducing the iconic shark submarine chase and the unforgettable introduction sequence featuring the shark attack. The portrayal of sweet-tooth Bond, depicted in scenes like Jaws' introduction and the Egyptians at Karnak, adds a layer of quirkiness that both fans and critics adore.
Live and Let Die (Top Tier)
Live and Let Die, the first Bond film for Roger Moore, is a thrilling adventure that sets the tone for his tenure. Moore consistently gives his all in the role, taking the film more seriously than its predecessors despite the inclusion of iconic set pieces like gators and set jumps. The mysterious plot involving fantasy and real elements, alongside the memorable appearance of Paul McCartney and the Wings, elevates the film to a new level. Moore's aspirations to seriously embody the role of Bond pay off, securing his rightful place as a genuine 1970s Bond.
The Man With the Golden Gun (High Tier)
The Man With the Golden Gun continues Moore’s trend of providing grounded stories while not shying away from action and adventure. This film marks a return to form from the excesses of Moonraker, offering a more plausible villain in Christopher Lee and relatively less ridiculous story elements. Despite the less-enthralling bond girl, the film still delivers with its standout action scenes and an intense climax that makes it a memorable entry in the series.
For Your Eyes Only (High Tier)
For Your Eyes Only is a standout among Roger Moore’s Bond films, offering a balanced mix of action, intrigue, and Moore’s charm. This film marks a return to form for Moore, providing a grounded story as a special agent. The excellent action scenes and a well-crafted plot make it a standout choice among the seven films. This balance made the film a beloved and consistent entry in the series.
Moonraker (High Tier)
Moonraker is a film that leans heavily into campiness, with a plot that borrows from Star Wars and features an array of zany characters and set pieces. Despite the excesses, the film's climactic space battle remains a highlight. The inclusion of elements such as Carnaval adds a unique flavor, making it a film that, while culminating in a bit of fun, is also a bit too playful for true saliva-inducing adventure.
Octopussy (Middle Tier)
Octopussy sees Moore and the writing team beginning to feel the strain. While the film still offers moments of fun, such as vine swinging, drivable crocodiles, and a hero clad in a clown costume, the excessive campiness can become tiresome. The film leans into camp more than others in the series, which may not be to everyone's taste.
A View to a Kill (Lower Tier)
By the time we reach A View to a Kill, Roger Moore is visibly past his prime, both in terms of age and energy. At 57, Moore's portrayal of Bond starts to feel outdated and disinterested. While the film still provides enjoyable moments, especially with Christopher Walken as the villain, Moore's portrayal is notably less dynamic and less believable than in previous entries.
Overall, Roger Moore’s Bond films offer a unique and diverse collection, spanning serious and playful elements. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just curious about the evolution of the James Bond character, this guide provides a comprehensive ranking of Moore's Bond films to help navigate and enjoy the series.