The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) review

To be frank, there are some really nice cinematic shots here, especially in the desert sequences. I also love the Egyptian production design, especially when Roger Moore is brandishing his pistol. Super cool! Then it contrasts nicely with Stromberg’s Atlantis set, which feels more futuristic and watery aesthetics. And that car turning into a submarine with the underwater sequence, wow! Super ambitious. I cannot believe they actually made that work on screen. The scale of the production design is huge. I honestly could not tell which parts were miniatures and which were full scale sets. That is how good it looks. I am also convinced that the third action sequence was shot on a massive sound stage. The number of extras alone is insane! Everything feels massive! The special effects are also impressive. The explosions, the atomic detonation, even the flooding of entire sets. Those sequences really stand out. Unlike Moonraker where I was hooked early then lost interest in the third act, this one is the opposite for me. It did not fully grab me until the second act, then it started to pick up. But overall, this still feels like a lighter Bond era. The tone is not that serious, and Bond still gets into trouble because of his weakness for women. But this time it is not just any Bond girl, it is Anya. I like how 007 and Agent Triple X are constantly trying to outsmart each other. Their dynamic is fun to watch. Barbara Bach is also miles better than Lois Chiles for me. Since I already saw Richard Kiel in Moonraker, he does not feel as creepy here anymore. But still, I cannot believe this has the same director as Moonraker. This one just hits different. This is lit!