Moonraker, released in 1979, is the eleventh film in the James Bond series and saw Roger Moore returning for his fourth performance as the iconic British secret agent. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, the film capitalized on the popularity of science fiction at the time, particularly following the success of Star Wars. With its ambitious scope and futuristic elements, Moonraker took Bond to new heights—literally—by sending him into space.
Background and development
Moonraker is loosely based on Ian Fleming’s 1955 novel of the same name, though the film’s plot diverges significantly from the book. Following the success of The Spy Who Loved Me, producers Albert R. Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson sought to continue the momentum by embracing the burgeoning interest in space exploration. Lewis Gilbert was brought back to direct, ensuring continuity in style and vision. The decision to include space travel was a bold move that distinguished Moonraker from its predecessors.
The film introduced Lois Chiles as Dr. Holly Goodhead, a CIA agent and scientist, and Michael Lonsdale as the megalomaniacal industrialist Hugo Drax. The screenplay, written by Christopher Wood, infused the narrative with both traditional Bond elements and contemporary science fiction themes. With a significantly increased budget, the production was able to create some of the most elaborate and visually stunning set pieces in the series to date.
Plot summary
The film opens with a thrilling mid-air hijacking of a Moonraker space shuttle, which is on loan to the United Kingdom. James Bond is assigned to investigate the theft, leading him to the shuttle’s manufacturer, Drax Industries, based in California. Upon arrival, Bond meets the enigmatic and wealthy Hugo Drax, who exhibits peculiar behaviour and an obsession with perfection.
Bond’s investigation uncovers several clues that lead him to suspect Drax’s involvement in the shuttle’s disappearance. During his stay at Drax Industries, Bond encounters Dr. Holly Goodhead, posing as a scientist but later revealed to be a CIA agent on a similar mission. Their initial distrust evolves into a partnership as they uncover more about Drax’s sinister plans.
Bond follows Drax’s trail to Venice, where he discovers a secret laboratory disguised as a glass factory. Here, he learns about a deadly nerve gas derived from a rare orchid, capable of wiping out humanity. After a thrilling chase through the canals of Venice, Bond retrieves a sample of the gas for analysis.
The investigation then leads Bond and Goodhead to Rio de Janeiro, where they face numerous attempts on their lives orchestrated by Drax’s henchman, Jaws, who has been tasked with eliminating Bond. The duo infiltrates Drax’s base in the Amazon rainforest, uncovering his grand plan to launch a fleet of space shuttles carrying genetically perfect young men and women to a space station.
Drax’s goal is to release the nerve gas from space, exterminating all human life on Earth, and then repopulate the planet with his handpicked survivors. Bond and Goodhead board one of the Moonraker shuttles, infiltrating the space station and attempting to sabotage Drax’s operation.
In a climactic space battle, Bond and Goodhead manage to disable the station’s radar jamming system, allowing U.S. forces to detect and destroy it. Bond confronts Drax, ultimately killing him and thwarting his genocidal scheme. The space station is destroyed, and Bond and Goodhead escape in a shuttle, re-entering Earth’s atmosphere safely.
Characters and performances
Roger Moore’s performance in Moonraker is a continuation of the charm and wit he brought to the role in previous films. His portrayal balances humour and seriousness, making Bond both relatable and heroic. Lois Chiles’ Dr. Holly Goodhead is a competent and intelligent Bond girl, whose professional skills and bravery make her a memorable counterpart to Bond.
Michael Lonsdale’s Hugo Drax is a quintessential Bond villain—cold, calculating, and driven by a grandiose vision. His performance is understated yet menacing, providing a perfect foil to Bond’s heroism. Richard Kiel’s return as Jaws adds a mix of danger and humor, further enriching the film’s dynamic. The supporting cast, including Corinne Cléry as Drax’s ill-fated pilot Corinne Dufour and Geoffrey Keen as Minister of Defence Sir Frederick Gray, add depth and continuity to the series.
Themes and style
Moonraker explores themes of technological advancement, the ethics of space exploration, and the dangers of megalomania. The film’s style is marked by its grand scale, exotic locales, and futuristic elements. The lavish production design, including Drax’s space station and the various high-tech gadgets, highlights the film’s ambitious vision.
The thematic elements reflect contemporary anxieties about technology and space exploration, as well as timeless concerns about power and control. The film’s aesthetic, with its elaborate sets and cutting-edge special effects, reflects the influence of science fiction trends of the late 1970s. The stylish direction, combined with impressive set designs and dynamic cinematography, created a visually captivating experience that pushed the boundaries of the Bond series.
Production design and locations
Ken Adam’s production design for Moonraker is spectacular, particularly the space station set, which is a masterclass in cinematic design. The film’s locations, from the opulent Drax estate in California to the stunning vistas of Rio de Janeiro, provide a rich and diverse visual palette that enhances the narrative.
Adam’s work on the sets, particularly the space station, demonstrated a commitment to creating immersive and awe-inspiring environments. Filming in locations like Venice and the Amazon rainforest added authenticity and spectacle to the film. The innovative use of miniatures and special effects, especially in the zero-gravity sequences, showcased the film’s technical achievements and contributed to its grand scale.
Music and soundtrack
John Barry returned to compose the film’s score, bringing his signature orchestral style to the franchise. The title song, performed by Shirley Bassey, who had previously sung Goldfinger and Diamonds Are Forever, captures the film’s epic and adventurous spirit. The soundtrack’s blend of lush orchestration and space-age elements reflected the film’s futuristic themes and added to its vibrant atmosphere.
Barry’s score perfectly complements the film’s tone, from the suspenseful “Space Lazer Battle” theme to the romantic title track. Music plays a crucial role in enhancing key scenes, whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping cable car fight or the serene yet tense moments in space. The soundtrack not only supports the narrative but also contributes to the film’s cultural impact, solidifying its place in the Bond musical legacy.
Reception and legacy
Upon its release, Moonraker received mixed reviews but was a commercial success, grossing over $210 million worldwide. Critics were divided on the film’s departure from traditional Bond elements, with some praising its ambition and others criticizing its embrace of science fiction tropes. However, audiences responded positively to the film’s spectacle and innovative action sequences.
The initial mixed reception did not hinder the film’s box office performance, ensuring the continued success of the Bond series. Retrospective reviews have acknowledged the film’s unique place in the franchise, appreciating its boldness and technical achievements. Its influence is seen in the broader spy genre and in subsequent Bond films, which continued to evolve and expand upon its themes and stylistic choices.
Cultural impact
Moonraker took James Bond to new heights, quite literally, by venturing into outer space. This bold move was partly inspired by the contemporary success of sci-fi films like Star Wars, reflecting the franchise’s adaptability to prevailing cinematic trends. The film’s ambitious special effects and space setting pushed the boundaries of what was technically possible at the time, setting a benchmark for future spy and action films.
The cultural impact of Moonraker is notable in its blend of traditional Bond elements with futuristic sci-fi themes. The film’s space battle sequences and depiction of advanced technology influenced the portrayal of espionage and adventure in popular media. Moreover, the return of the iconic henchman Jaws, played by Richard Kiel, solidified his place as one of Bond’s most memorable adversaries, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of cinematic villains.
Reflections on Moonraker
Moonraker is a testament to the James Bond series’ willingness to innovate and explore new frontiers. Roger Moore’s performance, characterised by a blend of suave sophistication and light-hearted humour, provided a perfect anchor for the film’s extravagant narrative. The diverse settings, from the canals of Venice to the vastness of space, showcased the series’ trademark variety and visual splendour.
The film’s production design, particularly Ken Adam’s futuristic sets, and John Barry’s atmospheric score contributed to creating an immersive and fantastical experience. While the film’s plot and space elements were a departure from the more grounded espionage of earlier entries, Moonraker succeeded in capturing the imagination of audiences and maintaining the franchise’s relevance. The film’s ability to balance spectacle with the core elements of the Bond formula ensures its place as a distinctive and memorable entry in the series.