On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

Background and development

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is based on Ian Fleming’s 1963 novel of the same name. The film came at a transitional time for the Bond series. Sean Connery, who had defined the role, decided to step down after You Only Live Twice. Producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman faced the significant challenge of finding a new actor who could fill Connery’s shoes. George Lazenby, an Australian model with no prior acting experience, was eventually cast as the new 007.

Director Peter R. Hunt, who had worked as an editor on previous Bond films, was chosen to helm the project. Hunt’s vision was to stay true to Fleming’s novel, resulting in a film that emphasized character development and story over gadgets and gimmicks. The casting of Diana Rigg, known for her role in The Avengers, as Bond’s love interest, Tracy di Vicenzo, added gravitas to the film. Telly Savalas was cast as the villainous Ernst Stavro Blofeld, bringing a new level of menace to the character.

Hunt’s directorial approach was to strip down the bombastic elements and focus on a more realistic and emotionally engaging story. The production faced several challenges, including weather issues in the Swiss Alps and the need to acclimatize the crew to high-altitude conditions. Lazenby’s inexperience as an actor required extra effort from the director and co-stars to bring out the best in his performance. Despite these hurdles, the team’s dedication to creating a faithful adaptation of Fleming’s work resulted in a film that would later be recognized for its boldness and depth.

Plot summary

The film opens with James Bond thwarting a suicide attempt by the enigmatic Tracy di Vicenzo on a Portuguese beach. Bond later learns that Tracy is the daughter of crime syndicate head Marc-Ange Draco, who offers Bond a substantial reward to marry her. Initially dismissive, Bond eventually agrees to continue seeing Tracy in exchange for Draco’s help in locating Blofeld, the leader of SPECTRE.

Bond’s mission takes him to the Swiss Alps, where Blofeld is conducting nefarious genetic research under the guise of a clinical allergy research institute. Posing as a genealogist, Bond infiltrates Blofeld’s lair and discovers a plot to use brainwashed women to spread a deadly virus globally. As Bond unravels the scheme, he finds himself falling deeply in love with Tracy.

The climax of the film features a dramatic ski chase and a final showdown at Blofeld’s mountaintop fortress. After a harrowing battle, Bond rescues Tracy and successfully thwarts Blofeld’s plan. The film concludes on a bittersweet note as Bond and Tracy marry, only for Tracy to be tragically killed by Blofeld’s henchwoman, Irma Bunt, shortly after the wedding.

This ending is one of the most poignant moments in the entire Bond series. The joy of Bond’s wedding, a rare glimpse of genuine happiness for the usually stoic agent, is brutally cut short, leaving Bond and the audience in shock. This tragic conclusion underscores the high stakes and personal costs that come with Bond’s life as a secret agent.

Characters and performances

George Lazenby’s portrayal of James Bond is often viewed through the lens of his inexperience as an actor. However, his performance brings a unique blend of vulnerability and physicality to the role. Lazenby’s Bond is more emotionally accessible, allowing audiences to see a softer side of the character, particularly in his interactions with Tracy.

Diana Rigg’s performance as Tracy di Vicenzo is one of the film’s highlights. Tracy is portrayed as a strong, independent woman who is more than a match for Bond. Rigg’s chemistry with Lazenby adds depth to their relationship, making the tragic ending all the more impactful. Telly Savalas’ interpretation of Blofeld is more hands-on and physically imposing compared to previous portrayals, adding a layer of personal animosity to his conflict with Bond.

The supporting cast includes Gabriele Ferzetti as Marc-Ange Draco, who brings a charismatic and paternal presence to the screen. Ilse Steppat’s Irma Bunt is a formidable and cold-hearted villainess, whose final act of violence leaves a lasting impression. Bernard Lee returns as M, the head of MI6, and Lois Maxwell as Miss Moneypenny, both providing continuity and grounding the film in the familiar world of Bond.

Lazenby’s performance, though initially criticized, has been re-evaluated over the years. His physicality in action scenes, particularly the ski chases and hand-to-hand combat, is impressive, showcasing a more rugged and athletic Bond. His emotional vulnerability, especially in the film’s final scenes, offers a new dimension to the character, revealing a Bond who is capable of love and deep sorrow.

Themes and style

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service explores themes of love, loyalty, and loss, setting it apart from other entries in the Bond series. The film delves into Bond’s character, portraying him not just as a suave secret agent but as a man capable of deep emotional connections. The relationship between Bond and Tracy is central to the narrative, providing a poignant contrast to the high-stakes espionage.

Peter Hunt’s directorial style emphasizes realism and character-driven storytelling. The film’s action sequences are more grounded, with a notable lack of the over-the-top gadgetry that had become synonymous with the series. The ski chases and hand-to-hand combat scenes are executed with a sense of immediacy and danger, heightening the suspense.

The visual style of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is marked by its breathtaking use of the Swiss Alps, providing a stunning backdrop for the story. Cinematographer Michael Reed captures the beauty and peril of the mountainous landscape, enhancing the film’s aesthetic appeal. The decision to use more practical effects and on-location shooting contributes to the film’s authentic feel.

The themes of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service resonate with the Cold War context of its time, reflecting the anxieties and uncertainties of the era. The film’s exploration of personal relationships and emotional vulnerability was ahead of its time, anticipating the more character-focused storytelling that would become more common in the franchise decades later.

Production design and locations

The production design of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is a blend of opulence and utilitarianism, reflecting the dual nature of Bond’s world. Blofeld’s mountaintop lair, Piz Gloria, is a marvel of modernist architecture, with its sleek lines and panoramic views. Production designer Syd Cain created a setting that is both luxurious and menacing, perfectly suited to Blofeld’s character.

The film’s locations play a crucial role in its storytelling. The Swiss Alps provide a picturesque yet perilous setting for Bond’s mission, with sequences shot in and around the Schilthorn mountain. The ice rink in Grindelwald and the dramatic bobsled chase add to the film’s exhilarating action set pieces. The use of real locations, from Portugal to Switzerland, lends an air of authenticity and adventure to Bond’s journey.

The Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant atop the Schilthorn, became an iconic location in the Bond series. Its futuristic design and isolated setting made it the perfect hideout for Blofeld. The challenges of filming at high altitude were met with innovative solutions, such as constructing a temporary cable car to transport equipment and crew. These efforts paid off, as the breathtaking vistas and thrilling ski chases added a unique visual dynamism to the film.

Music and soundtrack

John Barry’s score for On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is considered one of the finest in the series. The main theme, an instrumental piece, is both bold and evocative, capturing the film’s blend of romance and action. The soundtrack also features the song “We Have All the Time in the World,” performed by Louis Armstrong, which serves as a poignant leitmotif for Bond and Tracy’s relationship. The use of this song in the closing scene underscores the tragic ending, leaving a lasting emotional impact.

Barry’s music enhances the film’s atmosphere, from the suspenseful sequences in Blofeld’s lair to the tender moments between Bond and Tracy. The soundtrack’s orchestral arrangements and innovative use of electronic elements set a new standard for Bond films, influencing the musical direction of the series for years to come.

The score’s combination of lush orchestral themes and dynamic action cues provides a rich auditory backdrop to the film’s visual splendour. The recurring use of “We Have All the Time in the World” throughout the film ties the narrative together, emphasizing the tragic love story at its heart. Barry’s ability to blend romance and tension in his compositions enhances the film’s emotional depth and dramatic impact.

Reception and legacy

Upon its release, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service received mixed reviews. Critics were divided over George Lazenby’s performance and the film’s departure from the established Bond formula. Despite the initial lukewarm response, the film performed well at the box office, cementing its place in the franchise.

Over time, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service has been reassessed by fans and critics alike, gaining appreciation for its unique qualities and emotional depth. Lazenby’s lone outing as Bond is now viewed more favourably, with many considering his performance underrated. The film’s influence can be seen in later entries in the series, particularly in its more realistic portrayal of Bond and its emphasis on character development.

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service has earned a reputation as a cult favourite among Bond enthusiasts, often cited for its faithful adaptation of Fleming’s novel and its emotional resonance. The film’s distinctive approach and willingness to explore new territory have made it a standout entry in the series. The tragic ending, in particular, has left an indelible mark on the franchise, influencing the tone and storytelling of future films.

Cultural impact

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is often celebrated for its bold departure from previous Bond films, emphasizing a more grounded and emotional narrative. George Lazenby’s singular portrayal of James Bond introduced a vulnerability that had not been seen before, setting this film apart. The iconic ski chases and thrilling alpine action sequences became benchmarks for action scenes in cinema, influencing numerous films and TV shows.

The cultural significance of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is also found in its deep emotional resonance, particularly through the character of Tracy di Vicenzo, played by Diana Rigg. Tracy’s strength and complexity brought a new depth to the Bond girl archetype, impacting the portrayal of female characters in action films. The film’s tragic ending marked a significant tonal shift, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and adding a layer of gravitas to the Bond saga.

Reflections on On Her Majesty’s Secret Service

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service stands out for its unique approach within the Bond series, showcasing a more personal and poignant side of the famous spy. George Lazenby’s performance, though a departure from Sean Connery’s style, brought a fresh and humanizing dimension to Bond. The film’s focus on character development and emotional depth offered a richer narrative experience.

The alpine setting and action-packed sequences, particularly the innovative ski chases, set a new standard for action cinematography. The film’s meticulous attention to detail and ambitious stunts showcased the franchise’s commitment to pushing boundaries. The emotional weight of the storyline, culminating in the unexpected and heart-wrenching finale, underscored the film’s unique place in the Bond canon, highlighting its influence on the evolution of the series.