Which James Bond Actor Was Most Underappreciated During Their Era?

When discussing the underappreciated James Bond actors, a name often pops up: George Lazenby. While many may agree that Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Daniel Craig were immensely popular during their respective eras, leaving critics to focus on the lesser-known talents, Lazenby stands out as the most universally trashed Bond. However, his movie, On Her Majesty's Secret Service (OHMSS), is closer to the style of the modern DB5 era than the classics of Connery's time.

The Case for George Lazenby

George Lazenby, despite his limited screen time, is a standout among the James Bond actors. His approach to the role is slightly wooden, a factor that contributes to the initial mixed reviews. However, Lazenby's solo film, OHMSS, is a revelation. The film's editing, directing, and storyline are praised, with the notable presence of Emma Peel's legacy carried forward through Diana Rigg, setting standards that subsequent films often failed to match. Rigg's portrayal as the Bond Girl is one of the best in the franchise, a testament to her immense talent.

The film OHMSS not only carries Lazenby but also sets a precedent for what would later be seen in the films of Daniel Craig. The opening fight scene is well done, and the film as a whole is more grounded and serious, marking a departure from the lighter, more comedic tone of earlier films. This approach aligns more closely with the direction taken by Craig in the modern era, making Lazenby a potential early template for the contemporary Bond.

Other Notable Actors

While Lazenby is largely remembered for his dismissal, it's worth noting the other actors who faced similar criticism and eventual redemption. Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Daniel Craig were all tremendously popular in their time, and Timothy Dalton brings a different dynamic to the role, particularly in films like Spectre where the seriousness of the character is a stark contrast to the more lighthearted Connery and Moore.

Pierce Brosnan is appreciated for his financial success, though his performance was well-acclaimed. Tim Roth's versatility is also noteworthy, bringing a unique edge to the role in "GoldenEye."

A Tied Relationship

Both Timothy Dalton and George Lazenby share a unique bond: their films at the time were met with mixed reactions from the audience but have been more favorably received over time. Dalton brought a more serious Bond, and the series decided to approach the character more groundedly, focusing less on the gadgets. Dalton's direction and the series' journey during the same period as other action hits like "Rocky" and "Terminator" saw an audience seeking a more grounded action hero.

While it's impossible to definitively say which actor was more underappreciated (considering the subjective nature of preferences), a tie between Lazenby and Dalton can be argued. Both actors brought a different take to the Bond role, each contributing to the evolution of the franchise in their own distinct ways.