Tomorrow Never Dies, released in 1997, is the eighteenth film in the James Bond series and marked Pierce Brosnan’s second performance as the iconic British secret agent. Directed by Roger Spottiswoode, the film continued the revitalisation of the franchise begun with GoldenEye. Brosnan’s portrayal combined the classic charm and wit of Bond with a modern, action-oriented approach. The film explored themes of media manipulation and global politics, making it both a thrilling adventure and a commentary on contemporary issues.
Background and development
Tomorrow Never Dies was developed in the wake of the success of GoldenEye, which reintroduced James Bond to a new generation. Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli aimed to capitalise on this momentum with a story that resonated with the rapidly changing media landscape of the late 1990s. Roger Spottiswoode, known for his work on action films, was chosen to direct, ensuring that the film would deliver high-octane thrills.
The screenplay, written by Bruce Feirstein, was inspired by the rising influence of media moguls and the role of media in shaping public perception. The film introduced Jonathan Pryce as the megalomaniacal media baron Elliot Carver, Michelle Yeoh as Chinese secret agent Wai Lin, and Teri Hatcher as Paris Carver, Bond’s former lover and Elliot Carver’s wife. With a substantial budget, the production featured elaborate set pieces and diverse locations, from Hamburg to Vietnam.
Plot summary
The film opens with a thrilling pre-title sequence in the Khyber Pass, where Bond infiltrates a terrorist arms bazaar. He identifies and destroys several deadly weapons before escaping in a dramatic jet fight. This action-packed beginning sets the tone for the film, showcasing Bond’s resourcefulness and combat skills.
MI6 soon discovers that a British naval ship, the HMS Devonshire, has been sunk in the South China Sea, and its survivors are killed by stealth technology. Elliot Carver’s media empire is the first to report the incident, suspiciously well-informed. M suspects Carver’s involvement and sends Bond to investigate his media empire, starting in Hamburg at Carver’s inaugural launch party for a new satellite network.
In Hamburg, Bond encounters Paris Carver, reigniting old flames to gather intelligence. Paris reveals Carver’s scheme to Bond but is subsequently murdered by Carver’s henchman, Dr. Kaufman. Bond escapes and infiltrates Carver’s media tower, stealing vital GPS encoder evidence linking Carver to the Devonshire incident.
Bond’s investigation leads him to Saigon, where he teams up with Chinese secret agent Wai Lin. They discover that Carver plans to use his stealth ship to provoke a war between China and the UK by attacking Chinese forces and blaming the British. This war would enable Carver to secure exclusive broadcasting rights in China.
The climax involves Bond and Wai Lin boarding Carver’s stealth ship to thwart his plans. A series of intense confrontations ensue, culminating in Bond destroying the stealth ship with a missile. Carver meets his demise in a fittingly ironic manner, killed by his own sea drill. The film concludes with Bond and Wai Lin surviving the ordeal and sharing a moment of relief and camaraderie.
Characters and performances
Pierce Brosnan’s performance in Tomorrow Never Dies solidifies his portrayal of James Bond as both a suave gentleman and a ruthless operative. Brosnan balances the character’s charm with a harder edge, reflecting the dangerous world Bond inhabits. His chemistry with both Michelle Yeoh and Teri Hatcher adds emotional depth to the narrative, making his relationships more than mere plot devices.
Michelle Yeoh’s Wai Lin is one of the most formidable Bond girls in the series. A skilled martial artist and competent spy, Wai Lin matches Bond in every way, showcasing her abilities in numerous action sequences. Yeoh’s performance is both strong and charismatic, making Wai Lin a memorable and respected ally.
Jonathan Pryce’s Elliot Carver is a modern Bond villain, reflecting the fears of media manipulation and corporate power. Pryce delivers a performance that is both menacing and flamboyant, embodying Carver’s megalomania and ruthless ambition. His portrayal makes Carver a standout antagonist whose machinations are chillingly plausible.
Teri Hatcher’s Paris Carver, though her screen time is limited, provides a crucial emotional anchor for Bond. Her tragic fate adds a personal stake to Bond’s mission, driving him to take down Carver’s empire. The supporting cast, including Gotz Otto as the imposing henchman Stamper and Vincent Schiavelli as the creepy Dr. Kaufman, enrich the story with their distinctive characters and interactions with Bond.
Themes and style
Tomorrow Never Dies explores themes of media control, the ethics of journalism, and the potential dangers of unchecked corporate power. The film’s antagonist, Elliot Carver, embodies the corrupting influence of media moguls who manipulate information for personal gain. This theme resonates strongly in the context of the 1990s, a decade marked by significant changes in global media dynamics and the rise of 24-hour news cycles.
The film’s style is a blend of high-octane action and sophisticated espionage. The production design, including Carver’s high-tech media tower and the stealth ship, enhances the narrative’s modernity and technological intrigue. The action sequences are meticulously crafted, with a particular emphasis on practical effects and stunts that keep the tension high and the visuals compelling.
The thematic elements of media manipulation and global politics are underscored by the film’s aesthetic choices. The sleek, modern design of Carver’s headquarters contrasts sharply with the gritty realism of the action sequences, reflecting the duality of the glamorous facade and the brutal reality of Carver’s machinations. This juxtaposition highlights the film’s critique of superficial media images versus the underlying truths they often obscure.
Production design and locations
The film’s locations play a critical role in its appeal, showcasing stunning settings in Germany, the UK, Thailand, and Vietnam. Production designer Allan Cameron created memorable environments, such as Carver’s towering media headquarters in Hamburg and the opulent interiors of his stealth ship. The use of real locations added authenticity and visual variety to the film.
Cameron’s work on the sets, particularly the intricate design of Carver’s media empire, demonstrated a commitment to creating immersive and visually striking environments. Filming in locations like the bustling streets of Saigon and the scenic Halong Bay provided a diverse visual palette that enhanced the narrative. The innovative use of practical stunts, such as the thrilling motorcycle chase through Saigon and the high-flying action at Carver’s tower, showcased the film’s technical achievements and commitment to realism.
The action sequences are a testament to the film’s dedication to delivering high-quality thrills. The pre-title sequence’s explosive conclusion, the high-speed car chase through a parking garage, and the intense finale aboard the stealth ship are all meticulously designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. These scenes are enhanced by the film’s exceptional production values and attention to detail, making Tomorrow Never Dies one of the most visually impressive entries in the Bond series.
Music and soundtrack
David Arnold composed the film’s score, bringing a fresh and dynamic sound to the franchise. Arnold, a long-time Bond fan, sought to honour the legacy of John Barry while infusing the music with contemporary energy. His score blends traditional orchestral elements with modern electronic sounds, creating a vibrant and exciting auditory experience.
The title song, “Tomorrow Never Dies,” performed by Sheryl Crow, captures the film’s edgy and sophisticated spirit. The song’s haunting melody and Crow’s sultry vocals set the tone for the film, making it a memorable addition to the Bond theme canon. Although there was some controversy over the selection of the title song—k.d. lang’s “Surrender” was initially considered and later used over the end credits—Crow’s song has stood the test of time as a distinctive and evocative Bond theme.
Arnold’s score features a variety of musical styles, ranging from lush orchestral pieces to more minimalist, atmospheric tracks. Notable pieces include “White Knight,” which accompanies the adrenaline-pumping pre-title sequence, and “Backseat Driver,” which underscores the high-speed car chase in Hamburg. Arnold’s use of synthesizers and electronic beats brought a modern edge to the film’s soundscape, aligning with its contemporary setting.
One of the standout tracks, “Paris and Bond,” combines a romantic string arrangement with subtle electronic elements, creating a sense of nostalgia and tragedy that underscores Bond’s relationship with Paris Carver. Additionally, the track “Hamburg Break In” showcases Arnold’s ability to blend suspense and excitement, featuring a driving rhythm that enhances the tension of Bond’s infiltration mission.
The soundtrack plays a crucial role in enhancing key scenes, whether it’s the heart-pounding action sequences or the quieter, more introspective moments. Arnold’s innovative compositions, combined with Crow’s powerful title song, helped solidify Tomorrow Never Dies’s place in the Bond musical legacy, marking it as a significant evolution in the series’ sound.
Reception and legacy
Upon its release, Tomorrow Never Dies received positive reviews and was a commercial success, grossing over $333 million worldwide. Critics praised Brosnan’s confident portrayal of Bond, the film’s fast-paced action sequences, and its timely exploration of media manipulation. The film was also noted for its strong supporting cast, particularly Michelle Yeoh’s performance as Wai Lin.
While some critics felt that the plot was somewhat formulaic, the film’s high production values and thrilling set pieces were widely lauded. Over time, Tomorrow Never Dies has been appreciated for its modern take on the Bond formula and its prescient themes. The film is often cited as a strong entry in the franchise, reflecting the successful continuation of Brosnan’s tenure as Bond.
The positive reception reaffirmed Brosnan’s suitability as Bond and demonstrated the franchise’s ability to adapt and remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. The film’s success ensured the continued evolution of the series, influencing the tone and style of subsequent entries. Retrospective reviews have lauded the film’s balance of action, drama, and modernity, acknowledging its significant contribution to the Bond legacy.
Cultural impact
Tomorrow Never Dies tackled the timely and relevant issue of media manipulation and the power of information, introducing a villain who controls the news to incite global conflict. This contemporary plotline resonated with audiences in the late 1990s, reflecting growing concerns about the influence of media and technology. The film’s high-octane action sequences and international settings, from Hamburg to the South China Sea, underscored Bond’s role as a global agent.
The cultural impact of Tomorrow Never Dies is notable for its prescient themes and dynamic action. The film’s depiction of a media mogul as the antagonist highlighted the potential dangers of media control, a topic that remains relevant today. The theme song by Sheryl Crow and the strong performance by Michelle Yeoh as Wai Lin, one of the most capable Bond women, added to the film’s appeal and modern sensibilities.
Reflections on Tomorrow Never Dies
Tomorrow Never Dies is recognised for its timely exploration of media power and its fast-paced, action-packed narrative. Pierce Brosnan’s Bond, confident and resourceful, navigates a world where information is both weapon and shield, reflecting the complexities of modern espionage.
The film’s inventive action sequences, particularly the motorcycle chase through Saigon, showcased the franchise’s ability to deliver adrenaline-fueled thrills. The character of Wai Lin, portrayed by Michelle Yeoh, brought a new level of partnership and competence to the role of Bond’s ally, highlighting the series’ evolving portrayal of female characters. Tomorrow Never Dies successfully combined contemporary themes with classic Bond action, maintaining the series’ relevance and excitement.