After Bond’s science fiction, chaos reigned: The 007 film that needed to get the saga back on track – Cinema News

How do you bring the world’s most famous secret agent back to Earth after an absurd science fiction adventure? The answer is in 007 – For Your Eyes Only.

At first glance, you might think that James Bond is one of the most rigid franchises in cinema history. Fast cars, sharp tuxedos and, of course, a vodka martini, shaken and not stirred. These elements have appeared in the 007 films for more than six decades. However, the series is not that rigid.

Each Bond actor brings their own vibe. Missions also gradually adapt to the spirit of the times. One of the biggest breaks is 007 Against the Rocket of Death. After the success of Star Wars, James Bond also went to space at the end of the 1970s. As a result, the next film had to pay for the rise of science fiction.

James Bond returns to Earth

007 – For Your Eyes Only, from 1981, was announced as the next Bond in the closing credits of 007 – The Spy Who Loved Me, from 1977, before the battle on a space station was inserted at the last minute as an unexpected stop. The result was met with divided opinions and it soon became clear that the next Bond would need to be more down to earth.

In fact, this is one of the more grounded 007 films. Even the gadgets and over-the-top action scenes, which are usually celebrated with great enthusiasm, feel very focused and not overly sensationalized here. The focus is on the agent’s suspense and not on a blockbuster spectacle with space battles.

Without a doubt, the film is an exciting and engaging Bond adventure. However, it doesn’t return to the franchise’s roots in a very elegant way. The attempt to connect to the previous films often feels clumsy. One scene in particular turns out to be completely bizarre.

James Bond visits the grave of his wife Tracy, from 007: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), and soon after is lured into a trap by the villain Blofeld, who first appeared in 007 You Only Live Twice (1967 ).

Due to a legal situation, the creators of 007 – For Your Eyes Only were unable to use the name Blofeld, although all external characteristics pointed to the character. Worse still, after Blofeld has been built up over several films as Bond’s nemesis, he is simply written off in the opening sequence.

But ultimately, For Your Eyes Only got the James Bond franchise back on track and pulled it out of the cul-de-sac of Death Rocket. The film can be watched on Prime Video.

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