The Spy Who Loved Me, released in 1977, marked the tenth instalment in the James Bond series and is widely regarded as one of the best entries in the franchise. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, this film showcased Roger Moore’s most definitive performance as James Bond, blending charm, wit, and action in a near-perfect balance. With its grand scale and iconic elements, The Spy Who Loved Me cemented Moore’s place in Bond history and set a new standard for future films.
Background and development
The Spy Who Loved Me is loosely based on Ian Fleming’s 1962 novel of the same name, though the film’s plot diverges significantly from the book. Producers Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman sought to rejuvenate the series after the mixed reception of The Man with the Golden Gun. Lewis Gilbert, who previously directed You Only Live Twice, was brought back to helm the project. The decision to continue with Roger Moore in the lead role was crucial, as his portrayal had begun to resonate with audiences.
The film introduced Barbara Bach as Major Anya Amasova, a Soviet agent and Bond’s equal, and Curd Jürgens as the villainous Karl Stromberg. With a significantly larger budget, the production was able to create some of the most ambitious and visually stunning set pieces in the series to date. The screenplay, written by Christopher Wood and Richard Maibaum, focused on a Cold War narrative that was relevant to the era, while incorporating the larger-than-life elements that audiences had come to expect from a Bond film.
Plot summary
The film begins with the mysterious disappearance of British and Soviet submarines, prompting MI6 to pair Bond with Major Anya Amasova, also known as Agent Triple X, to investigate. Their mission takes them across Egypt and Italy, leading to the discovery of Karl Stromberg’s plot to create an underwater kingdom by destroying the world above.
Bond and Amasova’s uneasy alliance is tested by personal and professional conflicts, including Amasova’s vow to kill Bond after learning he was responsible for her lover’s death. Their investigation uncovers Stromberg’s massive underwater lair, Atlantis, where they face numerous dangers, including the towering henchman Jaws. The climax involves a high-stakes battle on Stromberg’s supertanker, the Liparus, culminating in Bond’s successful thwarting of Stromberg’s plan and the rescue of the captured submariners.
Characters and performances
Roger Moore’s performance in The Spy Who Loved Me is often cited as his best, blending humour and seriousness in a way that defines his take on Bond. His chemistry with Barbara Bach’s Anya Amasova is palpable, creating a dynamic and engaging partnership. Bach’s portrayal of Amasova is strong and intelligent, marking her as one of the most capable Bond girls in the series.
Curd Jürgens’ Karl Stromberg is a classic Bond villain—cultured, calm, and utterly ruthless. His vision of an underwater utopia provides a unique and menacing motivation. Richard Kiel’s Jaws, with his imposing stature and steel teeth, became one of the most iconic henchmen in the franchise, adding a mix of terror and dark humour to the film. The supporting cast, including Geoffrey Keen as Minister of Defence Sir Frederick Gray and Walter Gotell as General Gogol, added depth and continuity to the series.
Themes and style
The Spy Who Loved Me explores themes of cooperation amidst Cold War tensions, the dangers of unchecked power, and environmental preservation. The film’s style is marked by its grand scale, exotic locales, and innovative action sequences. The lavish production design, including the massive super tanker set and the futuristic underwater city of Atlantis, highlights the film’s ambitious vision.
The thematic elements of collaboration between rival nations reflect the geopolitical context of the 1970s. The film’s environmental undertones, represented by Stromberg’s desire to create a new world underwater, tap into contemporary concerns about humanity’s impact on the planet. The stylish direction, combined with impressive set designs and dynamic cinematography, created a visually captivating experience that set a new benchmark for the series.
Production design and locations
Ken Adam’s production design for The Spy Who Loved Me is nothing short of legendary. The super tanker set, one of the largest ever constructed at the time, and Stromberg’s underwater lair are masterclasses in cinematic design. The film’s locations, from the pyramids of Egypt to the ski slopes of Austria, provide a rich and diverse visual palette that enhances the narrative.
Adam’s work on the sets, particularly the Liparus super tanker, demonstrated a commitment to creating immersive and awe-inspiring environments. Filming in exotic locations like Egypt and Sardinia added authenticity and spectacle to the film. The innovative use of miniatures and special effects, especially in the underwater sequences, showcased the film’s technical achievements and contributed to its grand scale.
Music and soundtrack
Marvin Hamlisch composed the film’s score, bringing a fresh, contemporary sound to the franchise. The title song, “Nobody Does It Better,” performed by Carly Simon, became an instant classic and remains one of the most beloved Bond themes. The soundtrack’s mix of orchestral and disco elements reflected the era’s musical trends and added to the film’s vibrant atmosphere.
The standout piece of the soundtrack is undoubtedly the main theme, “Nobody Does It Better.” Performed by Carly Simon, this song became an instant classic, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. With its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Nobody Does It Better” captures the allure and mystique of James Bond, celebrating his unmatched prowess and charm. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect alignment with the Bond legacy.
Hamlisch’s score perfectly complements the film’s tone, from the suspenseful “Bond 77” theme to the romantic and iconic title track. Music plays a crucial role in enhancing key scenes, whether it’s the adrenaline-pumping ski chase or the tense underwater battles. The soundtrack not only supports the narrative but also contributes to the film’s enduring popularity and cultural impact. “Ride to Atlantis,” for instance, uses lush orchestration to evoke the underwater world of the villain’s lair, creating a sense of wonder and danger. “Mojave Club” offers a playful, jazzy tune that adds a lighter, more relaxed vibe. Each piece is meticulously crafted to enhance the narrative and mood of the film, demonstrating Hamlisch’s keen understanding of musical storytelling.
Reception and legacy
Upon its release, The Spy Who Loved Me received critical acclaim and was a box office triumph, grossing over $185 million worldwide. Critics and audiences praised Moore’s performance, the film’s thrilling action sequences, and its impressive production design. Over the years, the film has become a fan favourite and is often listed among the best Bond films.
The positive reception solidified Moore’s status as a beloved Bond and demonstrated the franchise’s ability to evolve and captivate new audiences. The film’s success ensured the continuation of the series and set a high standard for subsequent entries. Retrospective reviews have lauded the film’s balance of action, humour, and spectacle, acknowledging its significant contribution to the Bond legacy.
Cultural impact
The Spy Who Loved Me is widely regarded as one of the high points in the James Bond franchise, thanks to its grand scale and memorable characters. The introduction of the villain Jaws, with his menacing metal teeth, added a new dimension to Bond adversaries and left a lasting impression on popular culture. The film’s use of stunning locations, including Egypt and Sardinia, and the iconic underwater car, the Lotus Esprit, showcased the series’ commitment to innovation and spectacle.
The film’s opening ski chase, culminating in Bond’s parachute escape with a Union Jack motif, became one of the most iconic stunts in cinema history. The influence of The Spy Who Loved Me is evident in its contribution to the visual and thematic elements of the action genre, inspiring countless homages and parodies. The collaboration with Carly Simon for the theme song “Nobody Does It Better” also set a new standard for Bond music, blending contemporary pop appeal with the franchise’s signature style.
Reflections on The Spy Who Loved Me
The Spy Who Loved Me stands out for its blend of thrilling action, compelling characters, and exotic locations, which together create a quintessential Bond experience. Roger Moore’s portrayal of Bond, marked by charm and wit, perfectly complements the film’s adventurous spirit. The dynamic between Bond and Anya Amasova, played by Barbara Bach, added a layer of depth and intrigue, showcasing the evolving role of female characters in the series.
The film’s ambitious set pieces, particularly the underwater sequences and the grandiose interior of the Liparus supertanker, highlighted the series’ penchant for pushing the boundaries of production design. Director Lewis Gilbert’s ability to balance suspense, humour, and romance resulted in a film that was both entertaining and visually stunning. The Spy Who Loved Me not only reinforced James Bond’s cultural significance but also demonstrated the franchise’s capacity for reinvention and enduring appeal.