Likewise! I actually have them all saved as a playlist and play them through on occasion as background content whilst working. Love them! Glad to see them back! Just Goldfinger, Live and Let Die, Man with the Golden Gun, Casino Royale, Skyfall, and Spectre left to go 👍
Said it once and I said it before. You two have excellent chemistry. Lovely flow to the chat. Listening to each others points. Not speaking over each other. Other creators take note!
Thank you so much for this! David and I have become good friends over the years and so (I know this might be somewhat cliche to say but it’s true) sometimes I forget we’re even recording these as it feels like we’re just chatting in the pub as we would in real life. Thanks again for the positive words! Means a lot!
Believe it or not , Diamonds Are Forever had the best audience reaction of any Bond film I`ve ever seen. I was 20 when I first saw this movie in 1971. It had been over 4 years since Connery played Bond and the public couldn`t wait to see him. When the gunbarrel sequence came on the screen there was thunderous applause from the audience and when Connery said the words " my name is Bond - James Bond " the audience cheered and applauded. I`ll never forget it. People didn`t care how good or bad the movie was. THEY CAME TO SEE SEAN CONNERY.
It's similar to how 'Never Say Never Again' was better received than 'Octopussy' in 1983-audiences were happy to see Connery back and the actual quality of the film was secondary.
@jamesatkinsonja Octopussy was in fact better received by both critics and audiences. It made more money at the box office than Never Say Never Again.
I like this contextual perspective. I feel like this needs to be said for a lot of films, Bond or otherwise, that people finds reasons to dismiss today.
You question why the diamonds are smuggled from South Africa to Las Vegas via Amsterdam. The diamonds that the miner hands over to the dentist are rough diamonds. I assume that to be used as a focus for a laser satellite, they must be cut to very precise shapes. Amsterdam is one of the top diamond cutting venues in the world. Likely between the time that Mrs Whistler brings them from South Africa and when Tiffany puts them in her chandelier, they are processed by an unshown cutting house. Uncut stones would have been very noticeable. Perhaps we are missing a scene when Wint and Kidd kill everyone in the diamond cutter's shop.
It's funny how Wint and Kidd insert themselves into the chain. Wasn't Joe in the helicopter going to to take the diamonds to Mrs Whistler? Rightly speaking Wint and Kidd should bump themselves off.
Wint and Kidd, the elevator fight, Las Vegas car chase, Bambi and Thumper, Connery’s pink tie, John Barry’s score and the overall fun, camp and yet at times sadistic tone to this adventure make it one I always love to rewatch.
Guy Hamilton is the best director in my opinion for putting Bond in sure death situations ( the Bond laser scene in Goldfinger and the Bond alligator scene in Live and Let Die plus several others ) and he makes the audience guess how Bond is going to escape.
yeah, but i would rather have Bond get himself out of it then just be rescued by Shady Tree. However "NO GOOD DOUBLE CROSSING LIMEY FINK THOSE GOD DAMN DIAMONDS ARE PHONIES" gets me every time.
Bond at its best is comic. In that it is not meant to be reality. It's fun, it's fantasy. You can find the opposite of comic in the spy genre all over the place, so I want my Bond to be cheeky and fun.
Honestly, as a Bond film it's definitely not the strongest, but as a comedy, as an almost semi-parody of Bond it's genius, genuinely such a funny script. Diamonds Are Forever is always a great time, and I love the villains so much, Mr Wint, Mr Kidd and I love Charles Gray as Blofeld, just great fun. Connery looks older for sure but it's one of my favourite performances of his as Bond, it's not Goldfinger or From Russia with Love but imo it absolutely nails what it's going for.
Great discussion! Not being a fan of this movie there are 3 big positives that stand out 1. The bond/Franks elevator fight is incredible 2. The theme song is timeless 3. There is something magical about watching Connery play Bond in any capacity
They’re BACK! So great to see you guys back together again! In these days of zero Bond news it’s really nice that we can really try to enjoy all that’s come before - because there’s ALOT. I was born in 64 so I actually saw Diamonds in the theater😳😳!! And I can still remember two things - The crowd CHEERING when Connery said My name is Bond, James Bond in the pre-titles and my Mom and Dad arguing about the car chase when the car somehow turned on its other tires inside the alley! Describing it as a James Bond comedy is dead on. Outside of that great fight scene in the elevator - and perhaps that coffin sequence - there are few genuine thrills in the movie. There are ,however, great characters, tons of witty one liners and fantastic dialogue throughout. And while he doesn’t look his best, Connery is absolutely at his best as 007 here. Having lots of fun once again. So this film will always be looked at fondly by me and watching it is still great fun! BRILLIANT discussion - By far the best analysis of this movie ever done anywhere. Great job- I think the two of you should do this for the entire series. We will definitely have time - that’s for sure!
To get Connery back for this film (after the failure of OHMSS) the studio agreed to fund 2 more films, ‘Macbeth’ got cancelled because Polanski’s film (1971) killed its viability, ‘The Offence’ (1973) went ahead and is worth a watch.
I'm hoping Calvin does a review of The Offence sometime. It fits into Bond with it as you say being the film he got to do out of Diamonds deal. It also offers an interestingly different role for Connery and a very brave move for him. It shows how he wanted to do different roles to Bond. And he fought to get this made after seeing the play it's based on.
I think the first three films that Connery did with Sidney Lumet proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that the man was not limited to Bond. Those films are The Hill, The Anderson Tapes, and The Offence.
Diamonds is TOP 5 for me, and always has been. Charles Grey is my favorite Blofeld. Every one of his lines is memorable and hilarious. Norman Burton is my favorite movie Felix by far. I love all of his jokes. Kidd and Wint are my favorite henchmen right under Jaws & Oddjob- for all the reasons you mentioned. Tiffany Case is hilarious. I love here throughout the entire movie. Bambi and Thumper are iconic considering they are only in the movie for 2 or 3 minutes. Another minor villain you guys didn't mention was Peter Franks. His fight with Bond in the elevator was the roughest, dirtiest action scene in the movie. The action in the movie was heavy overall. I thought it was the most action packed Bond movie for the time after OHMSS. Love the variety of the soundtrack. It's one of my favorites. I listen to it all the time. Even the moon buggy chase gets very epic with the trumpets at brass at one point. I wish there was a movie like this made now. DAF seemed like an apology for OHMSS at the time. It went back to Goldfinger Guy Hamilton charm after depressing movie with Australian guy. I want apology movie for No Time To Die; maybe bring back Pierce and Lee Tamahori to do Die Another Day follow-up. 😂 Can't wait for Goldfinger "debate" fellas 🥂
One thing i really like about this film is the time capsule aspect of Las Vegas. It perfectly captures and encapsulates mob ran Vegas of the early 70s. Much like how YOLT captured mud 60s Japan. For that, I really like this film
I'm so glad to see the love for Wint and Kidd, as I had been under the impression that they weren't popular. They are such a fun and unique pair of villains. I actually wish they could have been brought back like Jaws was.
My Dad took me to see Diamonds Are Forever at the cinema when I was 9 and it was the reason I got into Bond. Living near Edinburgh the return of Sean Connery to the role was a big deal and probably difficult for those not around at the time to comprehend now. I got the Corgi Aston Martin for Christmas ‘65, the Toyota in ‘67 and the Corgi Juniors OHMSS but the movies were considered unsuitable for me. Eventually my constant pestering and the hoopla around Connery returning convinced Dad to take me to see DAF. He bought me the Corgi Moon Buggy on the way home. Great memories. Since then we’ve gone to see every Bond film at the cinema. Dad is now 85 and I’m 62. We both still love DAF for all the nostalgia it gives us.
I always have a great time with Diamonds are Forever. It’s got the memorable characters, extra witty dialogue, the distinct settings, awesome music and an overall pleasant tone.
beware fake autographs......Lana confronted dealer in CA who had forged sigs of hers at a con. Bondcollectibles has Shaw/Sakata sigs now certed by Global......most Global items are fake......Shaw didnt use sharpie either to sign fanmail. All signs of fraud is there ($$$ sigs sold at a pittance) but FBI not done anything despite millions of $ scammed
I have said before this was the first Bond movie I ever saw and I absolutely love it. The script is witty, the score fantastic and the supporting cast is perfect. It is my favorite Bond movie to this day. After seeing no time to die in the theater I rewatched diamonds to cleanse my mind and make me feel good again. This is my go to Bond movie and I will die on that hill.
@@tylordstevenson Speaking of OHMSS, what was with that weird "Mmmm" when Lazenby fought the guy in the hotel room? I couldn't tell who it was coming from! 😂
As someone who grew up with Bond, and as someone who's been really getting back into Bond in recent years, these debate videos are perfect. They're especially great to watch inbetween watching the actual movies, and you two have great chemistry, would love to see you guys discuss every movie honestly.
I saw ‘DAF” in the movie theater in 1971. Long before the internet and streaming, there was always a long line of people waiting to buy tickets. It was a huge hit in 1971.
I am surprised that in this discussion of the pros and cons of Diamonds are Forever that the fight scene between Bond and Peter Franks was not brought up. To me that is the highlight of the film.
As a young teen, this was one of my most watched Bond movies, and it was probably a top 3 Connery for me back then. I used to love the desert chase because I read that Connery did his own stunt, driving and jumping of the bike at the end and that really impressed me. However my last watch shocked me with how dull this chase was. I loved and still love the scene when Bond enters the tower and encounters the two Blofelds. Speaking of him, I used to love the Charles Gray Blofeld, and I still enjoy his performance in this one.
Calvin, You've proved again that your magic is strong when you've convinced David Z to rank MOONRAKER, OCTOPUSSY and DAF higher on his ranking and I hope the magic continues. Not only do you 2 need to talk about 'Never say Never Again' and '1967's Casino Royale', I hope you continue to talk more about movies in general or even better, talk about the Bond video games like GE 64 and its impact on Bond and the world as David hasn't played it yet, right? 36:29 you must take David to a Pantomime when he comes to the UK again and tell him that Americans like Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff have taken part in them too ;) take care and all the best :)
This was the 2nd or 3rd bond film I ever saw. I think that’s why I love it so much. I grew up in the Brosnan era and wore my goldeneye and the world is not enough vcr tapes out. I remember my parents telling me there was other bond movies besides those two. I owned diamonds on vcr and still remember renting vcr tapes of bond films from the local movie store. Simpler times!
Love seeing you guys back together again. I'm not even really a Bond fan, per se, but of course I have all the movies on DVD because I do like cinema in general, and Bond has been there literally my whole life, having been born in '61. You guys keep rockin it. These channels are like comfort food.
Diamonds was one of the first Bond films I saw and the first one I saw at a cinema. For all it problems, I still love it and I love the wacky humour, surreal bits and so on. It's my 3rd fav Sean film.
I know it's popular for some fans now to say that 'Diamonds' should have been a 'revenge film' with Lazenby following up OHMSS but while Richard Maiibaum did write drafts with that storyline, they didn't meet Cubby and Harry's approval. I do wonder if the premise felt thin [The revenge aspect of Fleming's 'YOLT' is only the final third while the pre-titles of Diamonds and FYEO do it in 5 mins!]. Given 'OHMSS' had underperformed, getting the popular Connery back ensured a hit and the tone set here [influenced by new writer Tom Mankiewicz] worked well for the series when Roger Moore took over so for me it was the right move.
DAF is very much a reactionary Bond film. I can see why they didn't want to dwell on anything too serious and just wanted to basically in their words do a Goldfinger again. I can't blame them and it does lead well into Moore's 70's run.
Yea - I guess a revenge film could have worked if they kept Lazenby on, because at that time in the early '70's , cinema had started getting pretty gritty and dirty... but it was just not what audiences wanted from a Bond film. And with Connery back, it would have felt wrong anyway. The vibe of Connery as 007 was much lighter in tone than the serious feel of Majesty. In fact, you could even say that the lighter comedy style of the Moore Bonds of the 1970's began right here with Sean Connery himself leading the way!
Very good point. Very much like Empire strikes back wasnt considered the master piece it is now, OHMSS was also the same and it must have felt super odd to both not have Connery and a movie that was different to GF, TB and YOLT. you certanly have to see things from the point of view of how people saw movies like that back in the day to understand why a movie felt like it had to be made a certain way. These days, movie series and sequels are very much inspired by Bond, star wars and indiann jones to know what to do and what not to do when doing a saga of movies
I’ve missed these Fan Discussions! When I was in college, I took a cinema class, and our final assignment was to reshoot a scene from a movie. My group and I decided on the opener from this movie, but as if Lazenby was still bond, but on a vengeance fueled journey. We even brought back Red Grant’s watch!
I love Diamonds. There is a casino where I live and there are 2 Diamonds Are Forever slot machines there. I always play it every time I visit. When you get the special game, it will play clips from the movie. Great time!
Nice to see this back again! I think the whole theme of "let's just have fun with it" was subdued in the Craig era entries and it's lost its unique identity. Diamonds is for me what comes to mind when I think of a "fun, campy" Bond film. My own theory into why I think a lot of Bond fans did not like Diamonds is because it comes straight after OHMSS after Bond's wife is killed. Its such a juxtaposition and "whiplash" in the tone, mood and feel for the movie. Most Bond enthusiasts who will at one point will watch it chronological and to have Bond's "revenge character arch" or "closure" go out in this way just feels unearned to me and cheated. But watching it on its own, its a lot of fun. Not sure if that's how you guys feel that way when making your rankings depending at what stage you watch it can massively impact the enjoyment? Not sure if anyone else agrees?
To quote Craig 'Austin Powers f-ked us' with the humour so they couldn't do that anyone [especially the innuendos as 'Allotta Fagina' isn't that far from say 'Xenia Onatopp'] and post-9/11, action films were going more serious like Bourne and Dark Knight. There certainly was still humor there [particularly when Ben Whishaw's Q arrives] but it was more dry than previously. Dalton's era also toned the humour down [as one liners weren't his forte] compared to the previous Moore films.
@jamesatkinsonja That is a good point you make about Craig and Austin Powers although I definitely think Austin Powers was more inspired by it and I do think a lot of parody films are usually written as a love letter to what they are aiming for. But I do agree Austin Powers and the likes have probably harmed having such overt humour but then you get success like the Kingsman which have got the balance right. Yes, 9/11 probably did see an adjustment in cultural tone for auidences, although I am not too sure people do think that consciously when thinking of movies myself. At least for audiences I find but perhaps film makers might have. And I do think there is a danger that is ends of stagnating and becomes over-stated. I got friends who even gone looking for Pierce Bronson Bond because they got a little "tired" and how "charmless" Craig's Bond got. But yeah, those are good points.
David says OHMSS didn't do overwhelmingly well at the box office, but it seems to have been one of the higher grossing of '69/70 - even if it was less overall than YOLT
Yeah there's this strange perception that OHMSS scared audiences away. But while it did make less than YOLT it still made a very impressive profit and on a lower budget. Bond films had started making less money with YOLT and Connery not playing Bond in OHMSS and an unknown replacing him probably didn't help. However OHMSS did get a great response on its release and was considered a success. Lazenby leaving I think added to the perception of New Bond being a failure and a return to old things being necessary.
@@davidjames579 Given Lazenby pretty much sank without a trace as far as mainstream films were concerned, it was easy to write OHMSS off as an anomaly and focus on the Connery+ Moore films. In the 90's I got that feeling with Dalton's films as they seemed rarely discussed at the time ['Best Ever Bond'-the 2002 top ten Bond moments show-has zero Dalton moments! and OHMSS only got in due to the ending] and the serious tone was seen as a misstep compared to Pierce bringing back the lighter tone even though LTK certainly made plenty of cash despite underperforming [Dalton not really becoming an A Lister probably contributed too as he's now a bit of a cult actor fav post 'Hot Fuzz']. Maybe the Craig era successful sustaining a serious Bond brought both back to prominence as fans checked out older films with a similar tone?
Surprised neither of you mentioned the repeated dialogue in the exposition scene about the diamond smuggling operation. I can’t help but to notice it from Sir Donald EVERYTIME I watch the film now: “The whole process, from start to finish, is subject to an airtight security system. It's an essential precaution, though the industry prides itself on the loyalty and devotion of its workers.”
We could have found ourselves with Adam West facing Goldfinger's twin brother, and people call what we got camp. Roger Moore called this his favourite Bond film he was not in. The theme song, score and set design are some of the best of the series. The punch-up in the lift is a classic. Charles Gray appears to be awake when he is playing Blofeld, which is more than can be said of Christoph Waltz. The dialogue is better than anything we have had in the past 30 years. Connery always used a lot of doubles/stand-ins. If you couldn't see his face, it wasn't him.
I agree, I love this movie. Best part is the amazing dialogue, the way it constantly toys with the absurd. He got bitten by the bug; Shady Tree, I just love your act; I got a brudder too, Mr. Franks, my-my, look what the cat dragged in, etc etc. These are just off the cuff from memory; I can more or less quote the whole movie. My favourite is, Hey Curly, I wanted hi-test. You had your chance and you blew it! And the double-entendres - the best.
@@michaelsinger4638 This whole film is a downgrade from “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”! From the peak to the bottom of the pit. Oh, wait, that may be “Man With The Golden Gun” - another Guy Hamilton film!
love this movie! It's definitely more comedy than spy thriller. And yes, it is campy but i think in hindsight it was a necessary course correction for the series, particularly considering Roger Moore would soon be the new Bond. i just have so much fun watching Diamonds.
Crazy, because this was my second movie as well. My brothers friends rented three Bond movies. My first Bond movie was On Her Majesties Secret Service then Diamonds, but the third was For Your Eyes Only. So I did get to see Bond get his revenge, but also saw three different actors in one sitting. Roger Moore was my favorite of the three that day. But oddly enough, Diamonds still feels like comfort viewing for me.
This one’s a personal favorite, I love how incredibly 60s it looks and it really rides that line between fun and cheeky quite well. Plus Jill St. John is one of the best bond girls ever.
I am a major bond fan especially Sean.. and went to see them as double bills with my dad...I can watch the connery ones over and over..although its not his best..it has a classic soundtrack to it..I have the cd and vinyl..John Barry was a genius..always loved the crematorium part..and that music wow!!😊..Jill st.john...not convincing..bambi and thumper were great....and of course Shirley bassey..title track..❤it...tis uneven..but not a bad bit of hokum..gazz
Sitting here on a Saturday and thought wow, it would be a great time to watch calvins everything or nothing in depth review!! Thanks for the content calvin!
I really enjoy these discussions, to the point where I occasionally find myself chipping in, even when I know that no-one can hear me. Diamonds is never likely to feature highly in my personal Bond movie rankings, but I do like Wint and Kidd, and while I understand why Charles Gray's performance as Blofeld is not to everyone's taste, I think it fits the overall tone of the film nicely. Moreover, for all the camp, there is an underlying urbane menace about Gray's Blofeld that is never far from the surface. When he threatens to have Metz shot, you feel he really means it. Interesting also that you mentioned Starship Troopers. Every time I see that film, I think Dina Meyer would have made a better Christmas Jones than Denise Richards.
Great discussion guys, Diamonds was also my second Bond, which I saw on TV after LALD at the cinema. When I watch all the Bond movies in chronological order, I always make an exception for the Connery films. I view all 7 of his first (yes, including NSNA!) because it avoids that awkward & jarring tonal shift from OHMSS to DAF. It also helps to make sense of why Blofeld doesn’t recognise Bond in Majesty’s.
This is an official James Bond which is best enjoyed with an acholic beverage. Its the campiest Bond film which stars Sean Connery. It has a great score, some very funny gags, and memorable moments. Is is better view when a young child, yes. Can you still enjoy it as an adult, yes. It's silly entertainment and fun time.
It was my first vintage Bond. Technically, it was weak and the story construction wasn't up to snuff but regardless, it's funny as hell. Diamonds was not meant to be thriller, it's a comedy.
The confusion about what Wint and Kidd are doing... I don't know if it's actually addressed in the dialogue but basically yes, I've always read it as 'Blofeld no longer needs any more diamonds, therefore he's killing off the pipeline so that they can't reveal any information that might lead back to him'. That's really the only way it makes sense. The pipeline goes from the dentist to the teacher who takes them to Europe, to Tiffany who then travels with the diamonds to the US where they're deposited at the funeral home, then Shady Tree picks them up and - presumably - they go directly from him to Blofeld (who he presumably thinks is Willard White). I've never even considered the idea that White set up the diamond smuggling ring and Blofeld has just latched onto it, I don't think there's anything in the film that supports that reading. I think Blofeld set it up after he'd taken over White's organisation.
The whole 'diamond smuggling chain' is a hold over from the novel. and connecting it to the Blofeld 'death ray' plot is pretty clunky. I agree Wint+ Kidd is 'cleaning up' the diamond next work and I certainly don't buy White had anything to do with it. I think Blofled need White's organisation for the 'death ray' part of the plan only and combined it with the smuggling getting him the diamonds. Plotting is not one of the scripts strongest suits.
51:50 My favorite Bond fan theory is that in DAF, Bond never actually meets Blofeld, who is still recovering from a broken neck as seen in FYEO. Ever instance Charles Grey appears in the film, he’s being Blofeld’s double keeping Bond off the trail.
Yes I like your review/discussion videos the best. I like this movie. Its Camp & over the top and a lot of fun. I can understand why Moore considered it his favourite Bond outside of his performances.
14:30 yes. It was the first attempt at a real James Bond comedy within the official series. But more than that, I feel that it was the genre of cozy. There aren’t any real steaks there aren’t any real threats there’s no grit. It’s the perfect bond movie on a day home from school or work when you’re feeling sick and just want to lay on the couch and watch a BOND movie
Anyone else think that the pre-title sequence could be viewed as a follow on from YOLT where Blofeld escapes at the end. If you left out OHMSS you could move from Connerys fifth to his final fairly seamlessly.
I like to think that Mr Wint and Mr Kidd were introduced to each other as such on the first day of Henchman School. Over the coming weeks and months as their romance grew (stolen glances in garotting 101 etc.) they would always call each other Mr Wint and Mr Kidd to remind them of that very first day they met.
Charles Gray as Blofeld is one of the highlights of this for me, along with Wint & Kidd. Worst Blofeld is Christoph Waltz IMHO, which is really sad, he seemed a natural.
Final note: I saw this first run in December 1971. In the U.S., this was a HUGE DEAL. Connery's return was enormous. Also, I saw a double feature of OHMSS and Diamonds in the theater. It was also a big deal.
In 1971 we were thrilled to have Sean Connery back, so the movie went over great. The audience was hungry for more Bond movies. When I saw it, they didn't make the insert correcting the Mustang going through the alley on its right wheels and coming out on the left wheels. (lol)
That's interesting. I've never heard from somebody who saw it on first release. In the making of made decades later they give the impression that the flip was done during editing after a screening for Cubby. I wonder if this was changed after release or if your cinema ended up with a rogue copy.
Hey, Calvin! Have you ever made a video dedicated to your favorite badass Bond moments that happen throughout the films? This could even spill over into the video games as well!! Love the content, keep it up!
Diamonds Are Forever was the first Bond film I watched knowing conciously that I was watching a Bond film. And for the longest time it was the only one I saw on a regulary basis since it was my only DVD back then. I used to believe that all Bond Films were goofy and that people loved them because of that. Then I went to see Quantum of Solace in the cinema and a contrast was set 😂
At one time this film was my favorite Bond film. As an adult, I see all the problems it has, but I still always have a soft spot for it. Wint and Kidd may still be my favorite henchmen in the franchise. I hope for your next debate you’ll discuss The Man with the Golden Gun!
Using death of the author heuristics, I don’t think one should assume that this version of bond has a dead wife. The pre-credits sequence begins in Japan and therefore we can assume if we wish that this is just his continuation of You Only Live Twice. Also, the way in which Bond interacts with Blofield does not have any of the intensity that should be in that interaction if this is the man who just killed Bond‘s wife. The moneypenny banter which involves her asking for a diamond in a ring also strikes wrong. Bond and Monwypenny’s relationship is such that she would not be making those kind of jokes to a man whose wife was just murdered. In what I now refer to as,” the Tracy, continuity “ diamonds Are Forever is the outlier. Every bond film from Dr. No through Licence to Kill is in the same continuity with Tracy‘s death. There are many signs in the more years that this bond was married to Tracy. There is also that fabulous scene at the wedding in Licence To Kill with some of Timothy Dalton‘s finest acting.
I agree that we need to contextualise the fashion in Diamonds Are Forever. If Bond had worn a narrow, dark tie and small collar, the audience would have thought him old-fashioned.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
So glad to see another “debate” video. I have rewatched each of the others over a dozen times. Can’t get enough!
yeah me too :)
@@DafyddBrooksAnd me and I'm sure a great many others.
Me three! I downloaded a bunch of them for a long haul flight, made the time fly!
Yeah I probably go through all of them about 3 times a year, sometimes as my focus and sometimes as background content while I'm working lol
Likewise! I actually have them all saved as a playlist and play them through on occasion as background content whilst working. Love them! Glad to see them back! Just Goldfinger, Live and Let Die, Man with the Golden Gun, Casino Royale, Skyfall, and Spectre left to go 👍
Said it once and I said it before. You two have excellent chemistry. Lovely flow to the chat. Listening to each others points. Not speaking over each other. Other creators take note!
Thank you so much for this! David and I have become good friends over the years and so (I know this might be somewhat cliche to say but it’s true) sometimes I forget we’re even recording these as it feels like we’re just chatting in the pub as we would in real life. Thanks again for the positive words! Means a lot!
Believe it or not , Diamonds Are Forever had the best audience reaction of any Bond film I`ve ever seen. I was 20 when I first saw this movie in 1971. It had been over 4 years since Connery played Bond and the public couldn`t wait to see him. When the gunbarrel sequence came on the screen there was thunderous applause from the audience and when Connery said the words " my name is Bond - James Bond " the audience cheered and applauded. I`ll never forget it. People didn`t care how good or bad the movie was. THEY CAME TO SEE SEAN CONNERY.
It's similar to how 'Never Say Never Again' was better received than 'Octopussy' in 1983-audiences were happy to see Connery back and the actual quality of the film was secondary.
@jamesatkinsonja Octopussy was in fact better received by both critics and audiences. It made more money at the box office than Never Say Never Again.
I like this contextual perspective. I feel like this needs to be said for a lot of films, Bond or otherwise, that people finds reasons to dismiss today.
thats nice. Still a weak movie.
Critics Siskel & Ebert were the only ones that liked NSNA better than Octopussy. @@Rocket1377
You question why the diamonds are smuggled from South Africa to Las Vegas via Amsterdam. The diamonds that the miner hands over to the dentist are rough diamonds. I assume that to be used as a focus for a laser satellite, they must be cut to very precise shapes. Amsterdam is one of the top diamond cutting venues in the world. Likely between the time that Mrs Whistler brings them from South Africa and when Tiffany puts them in her chandelier, they are processed by an unshown cutting house. Uncut stones would have been very noticeable. Perhaps we are missing a scene when Wint and Kidd kill everyone in the diamond cutter's shop.
It's funny how Wint and Kidd insert themselves into the chain. Wasn't Joe in the helicopter going to to take the diamonds to Mrs Whistler? Rightly speaking Wint and Kidd should bump themselves off.
Wint and Kidd, the elevator fight, Las Vegas car chase, Bambi and Thumper, Connery’s pink tie, John Barry’s score and the overall fun, camp and yet at times sadistic tone to this adventure make it one I always love to rewatch.
Connery looked in far better shape when he did 'Never Say Never Again' than in 'Diamonds Are Forever'.
Connery looked like he was in better shape in The Rock, in the 90’s, than he did here.
This might be a "comic" Bond film, but the cremation scene really scared me as a kid and still gives me chills!
Guy Hamilton is the best director in my opinion for putting Bond in sure death situations ( the Bond laser scene in Goldfinger and the Bond alligator scene in Live and Let Die plus several others ) and he makes the audience guess how Bond is going to escape.
yeah, but i would rather have Bond get himself out of it then just be rescued by Shady Tree. However "NO GOOD DOUBLE CROSSING LIMEY FINK THOSE GOD DAMN DIAMONDS ARE PHONIES" gets me every time.
Same, it's the music for me
Bond at its best is comic. In that it is not meant to be reality. It's fun, it's fantasy. You can find the opposite of comic in the spy genre all over the place, so I want my Bond to be cheeky and fun.
this one of my all time favorites. the music ,Shirley Bassey, Connery and Gray are Great.
Honestly, as a Bond film it's definitely not the strongest, but as a comedy, as an almost semi-parody of Bond it's genius, genuinely such a funny script. Diamonds Are Forever is always a great time, and I love the villains so much, Mr Wint, Mr Kidd and I love Charles Gray as Blofeld, just great fun. Connery looks older for sure but it's one of my favourite performances of his as Bond, it's not Goldfinger or From Russia with Love but imo it absolutely nails what it's going for.
Connery was only 40 when this movie was filmed but looks older than David looks in this video 😅
Great discussion! Not being a fan of this movie there are 3 big positives that stand out 1. The bond/Franks elevator fight is incredible 2. The theme song is timeless 3. There is something magical about watching Connery play Bond in any capacity
As its between Connery and his Karate Teacher they really go for it.
They’re BACK!
So great to see you guys back together again!
In these days of zero Bond news it’s really nice that we can really try to enjoy all that’s come before - because there’s ALOT.
I was born in 64 so I actually saw Diamonds in the theater😳😳!!
And I can still remember two things -
The crowd CHEERING when Connery said
My name is Bond, James Bond in the pre-titles
and my Mom and Dad arguing about the car chase when the car somehow turned on its other tires inside the alley!
Describing it as a James Bond comedy is dead on.
Outside of that great fight scene in the elevator - and perhaps that coffin sequence - there are few genuine thrills in the movie.
There are ,however, great characters, tons of witty one liners and fantastic dialogue throughout.
And while he doesn’t look his best,
Connery is absolutely at his best as 007 here.
Having lots of fun once again.
So this film will always be looked at fondly by me and watching it is still great fun!
BRILLIANT discussion -
By far the best analysis of this movie ever done anywhere.
Great job-
I think the two of you should do this for the entire series.
We will definitely have time - that’s for sure!
"Diamonds" was the first Bond film I saw, aged eight or nine. It will always have a special place in my heart!
To get Connery back for this film (after the failure of OHMSS) the studio agreed to fund 2 more films, ‘Macbeth’ got cancelled because Polanski’s film (1971) killed its viability, ‘The Offence’ (1973) went ahead and is worth a watch.
I'm hoping Calvin does a review of The Offence sometime. It fits into Bond with it as you say being the film he got to do out of Diamonds deal. It also offers an interestingly different role for Connery and a very brave move for him. It shows how he wanted to do different roles to Bond. And he fought to get this made after seeing the play it's based on.
I think the first three films that Connery did with Sidney Lumet proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that the man was not limited to Bond. Those films are The Hill, The Anderson Tapes, and The Offence.
Diamonds is TOP 5 for me, and always has been.
Charles Grey is my favorite Blofeld. Every one of his lines is memorable and hilarious.
Norman Burton is my favorite movie Felix by far. I love all of his jokes.
Kidd and Wint are my favorite henchmen right under Jaws & Oddjob- for all the reasons you mentioned.
Tiffany Case is hilarious. I love here throughout the entire movie.
Bambi and Thumper are iconic considering they are only in the movie for 2 or 3 minutes.
Another minor villain you guys didn't mention was Peter Franks. His fight with Bond in the elevator was the roughest, dirtiest action scene in the movie.
The action in the movie was heavy overall. I thought it was the most action packed Bond movie for the time after OHMSS.
Love the variety of the soundtrack. It's one of my favorites. I listen to it all the time. Even the moon buggy chase gets very epic with the trumpets at brass at one point.
I wish there was a movie like this made now. DAF seemed like an apology for OHMSS at the time. It went back to Goldfinger Guy Hamilton charm after depressing movie with Australian guy. I want apology movie for No Time To Die; maybe bring back Pierce and Lee Tamahori to do Die Another Day follow-up. 😂
Can't wait for Goldfinger "debate" fellas 🥂
I wouldn,t go that far 21 or22 for me
The car chase is the only car chase I've ever seen where literally everyone on the sidewalk is watching the film makers making the film!
One thing i really like about this film is the time capsule aspect of Las Vegas. It perfectly captures and encapsulates mob ran Vegas of the early 70s. Much like how YOLT captured mud 60s Japan.
For that, I really like this film
Wint and Kidd are some of the best henchmen of the series and make the movie for me. Have missed these discussions! So good to have them again, guys!
Very camp movie but they where absolutely terrifying, always creep me out.
I'm so glad to see the love for Wint and Kidd, as I had been under the impression that they weren't popular. They are such a fun and unique pair of villains. I actually wish they could have been brought back like Jaws was.
My Dad took me to see Diamonds Are Forever at the cinema when I was 9 and it was the reason I got into Bond. Living near Edinburgh the return of Sean Connery to the role was a big deal and probably difficult for those not around at the time to comprehend now. I got the Corgi Aston Martin for Christmas ‘65, the Toyota in ‘67 and the Corgi Juniors OHMSS but the movies were considered unsuitable for me. Eventually my constant pestering and the hoopla around Connery returning convinced Dad to take me to see DAF. He bought me the Corgi Moon Buggy on the way home. Great memories. Since then we’ve gone to see every Bond film at the cinema. Dad is now 85 and I’m 62. We both still love DAF for all the nostalgia it gives us.
I always have a great time with Diamonds are Forever. It’s got the memorable characters, extra witty dialogue, the distinct settings, awesome music and an overall pleasant tone.
I enjoyed the video but was surprised there was no mention of Plenty O’Toole. I had quite a celebrity crush on Lana Wood back in the day.
beware fake autographs......Lana confronted dealer in CA who had forged sigs of hers at a con. Bondcollectibles has Shaw/Sakata sigs now certed by Global......most Global items are fake......Shaw didnt use sharpie either to sign fanmail. All signs of fraud is there ($$$ sigs sold at a pittance) but FBI not done anything despite millions of $ scammed
I have said before this was the first Bond movie I ever saw and I absolutely love it. The script is witty, the score fantastic and the supporting cast is perfect. It is my favorite Bond movie to this day. After seeing no time to die in the theater I rewatched diamonds to cleanse my mind and make me feel good again. This is my go to Bond movie and I will die on that hill.
"Cai...cai....CAIRO!" That bit of sound editing evokes fun for older Bond fans.
Yeah! I love that😂. OHMSS is definitely not without sin either. That movie is full of weird sound editing. Love it!
@@tylordstevenson Speaking of OHMSS, what was with that weird "Mmmm" when Lazenby fought the guy in the hotel room? I couldn't tell who it was coming from! 😂
Fun !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
After OHMSS, the first three 70s films really are Budget-Bond. Even the screen ratio is back to the pre-Thunderball films
As someone who grew up with Bond, and as someone who's been really getting back into Bond in recent years, these debate videos are perfect. They're especially great to watch inbetween watching the actual movies, and you two have great chemistry, would love to see you guys discuss every movie honestly.
I saw ‘DAF” in the movie theater in 1971. Long before the internet and streaming, there was always a long line of people waiting to buy tickets. It was a huge hit in 1971.
I’ve missed these discussions- thank you both!
Diamonds Are Forever is weird, campy, over the top and doesn't make much sense...I love every second of it!
It might be the "nuttiest" bond movie.
It's absolutely my favorite Bond film! 💖
@@ediesedgwick4462 Great choice!
I am surprised that in this discussion of the pros and cons of Diamonds are Forever that the fight scene between Bond and Peter Franks was not brought up. To me that is the highlight of the film.
As a young teen, this was one of my most watched Bond movies, and it was probably a top 3 Connery for me back then.
I used to love the desert chase because I read that Connery did his own stunt, driving and jumping of the bike at the end and that really impressed me. However my last watch shocked me with how dull this chase was.
I loved and still love the scene when Bond enters the tower and encounters the two Blofelds.
Speaking of him, I used to love the Charles Gray Blofeld, and I still enjoy his performance in this one.
Calvin, You've proved again that your magic is strong when you've convinced David Z to rank MOONRAKER, OCTOPUSSY and DAF higher on his ranking and I hope the magic continues.
Not only do you 2 need to talk about 'Never say Never Again' and '1967's Casino Royale', I hope you continue to talk more about movies in general or even better, talk about the Bond video games like GE 64 and its impact on Bond and the world as David hasn't played it yet, right?
36:29 you must take David to a Pantomime when he comes to the UK again and tell him that Americans like Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff have taken part in them too ;) take care and all the best :)
This was the 2nd or 3rd bond film I ever saw. I think that’s why I love it so much. I grew up in the Brosnan era and wore my goldeneye and the world is not enough vcr tapes out. I remember my parents telling me there was other bond movies besides those two. I owned diamonds on vcr and still remember renting vcr tapes of bond films from the local movie store. Simpler times!
Love seeing you guys back together again. I'm not even really a Bond fan, per se, but of course I have all the movies on DVD because I do like cinema in general, and Bond has been there literally my whole life, having been born in '61. You guys keep rockin it. These channels are like comfort food.
I remember Jill St. John from a 1960's Batman episode. She played the Riddler's female hench person, Molly.
She's in the very first episode!
You mean a henchwoman
Yeah, that's what I meant.
@@andrewb5429 And her character died at the end, which I don't think this ever happened again on BATMAN.
She played Molly in the two-part pilot episode "Hi Diddle Riddle"in January 1966.
Diamonds was one of the first Bond films I saw and the first one I saw at a cinema. For all it problems, I still love it and I love the wacky humour, surreal bits and so on. It's my 3rd fav Sean film.
I know it's popular for some fans now to say that 'Diamonds' should have been a 'revenge film' with Lazenby following up OHMSS but while Richard Maiibaum did write drafts with that storyline, they didn't meet Cubby and Harry's approval. I do wonder if the premise felt thin [The revenge aspect of Fleming's 'YOLT' is only the final third while the pre-titles of Diamonds and FYEO do it in 5 mins!]. Given 'OHMSS' had underperformed, getting the popular Connery back ensured a hit and the tone set here [influenced by new writer Tom Mankiewicz] worked well for the series when Roger Moore took over so for me it was the right move.
DAF is very much a reactionary Bond film. I can see why they didn't want to dwell on anything too serious and just wanted to basically in their words do a Goldfinger again. I can't blame them and it does lead well into Moore's 70's run.
Yea -
I guess a revenge film could have worked if they kept Lazenby on, because at that time in the early '70's , cinema had started getting pretty gritty and dirty...
but it was just not what audiences wanted from a Bond film.
And with Connery back, it would have felt wrong anyway.
The vibe of Connery as 007 was much lighter in tone than the serious feel of Majesty.
In fact, you could even say that the lighter comedy style of the Moore Bonds of the 1970's began right here with Sean Connery himself leading the way!
Very good point. Very much like Empire strikes back wasnt considered the master piece it is now, OHMSS was also the same and it must have felt super odd to both not have Connery and a movie that was different to GF, TB and YOLT.
you certanly have to see things from the point of view of how people saw movies like that back in the day to understand why a movie felt like it had to be made a certain way.
These days, movie series and sequels are very much inspired by Bond, star wars and indiann jones to know what to do and what not to do when doing a saga of movies
I’ve missed these Fan Discussions! When I was in college, I took a cinema class, and our final assignment was to reshoot a scene from a movie. My group and I decided on the opener from this movie, but as if Lazenby was still bond, but on a vengeance fueled journey. We even brought back Red Grant’s watch!
I love this film! It's the best in the entire series! Plus, Mr. Wint and Mr. Kidd! 💖💖💖
I’m hype!! Was just rewatching some of the debates yesterday and then this drops!! 😤
I love Diamonds. There is a casino where I live and there are 2 Diamonds Are Forever slot machines there. I always play it every time I visit. When you get the special game, it will play clips from the movie. Great time!
Nice to see this back again!
I think the whole theme of "let's just have fun with it" was subdued in the Craig era entries and it's lost its unique identity. Diamonds is for me what comes to mind when I think of a "fun, campy" Bond film.
My own theory into why I think a lot of Bond fans did not like Diamonds is because it comes straight after OHMSS after Bond's wife is killed. Its such a juxtaposition and "whiplash" in the tone, mood and feel for the movie. Most Bond enthusiasts who will at one point will watch it chronological and to have Bond's "revenge character arch" or "closure" go out in this way just feels unearned to me and cheated.
But watching it on its own, its a lot of fun.
Not sure if that's how you guys feel that way when making your rankings depending at what stage you watch it can massively impact the enjoyment?
Not sure if anyone else agrees?
To quote Craig 'Austin Powers f-ked us' with the humour so they couldn't do that anyone [especially the innuendos as 'Allotta Fagina' isn't that far from say 'Xenia Onatopp'] and post-9/11, action films were going more serious like Bourne and Dark Knight. There certainly was still humor there [particularly when Ben Whishaw's Q arrives] but it was more dry than previously. Dalton's era also toned the humour down [as one liners weren't his forte] compared to the previous Moore films.
@jamesatkinsonja That is a good point you make about Craig and Austin Powers although I definitely think Austin Powers was more inspired by it and I do think a lot of parody films are usually written as a love letter to what they are aiming for. But I do agree Austin Powers and the likes have probably harmed having such overt humour but then you get success like the Kingsman which have got the balance right.
Yes, 9/11 probably did see an adjustment in cultural tone for auidences, although I am not too sure people do think that consciously when thinking of movies myself. At least for audiences I find but perhaps film makers might have. And I do think there is a danger that is ends of stagnating and becomes over-stated. I got friends who even gone looking for Pierce Bronson Bond because they got a little "tired" and how "charmless" Craig's Bond got.
But yeah, those are good points.
David says OHMSS didn't do overwhelmingly well at the box office, but it seems to have been one of the higher grossing of '69/70 - even if it was less overall than YOLT
Yeah there's this strange perception that OHMSS scared audiences away. But while it did make less than YOLT it still made a very impressive profit and on a lower budget. Bond films had started making less money with YOLT and Connery not playing Bond in OHMSS and an unknown replacing him probably didn't help. However OHMSS did get a great response on its release and was considered a success. Lazenby leaving I think added to the perception of New Bond being a failure and a return to old things being necessary.
@@davidjames579 Given Lazenby pretty much sank without a trace as far as mainstream films were concerned, it was easy to write OHMSS off as an anomaly and focus on the Connery+ Moore films. In the 90's I got that feeling with Dalton's films as they seemed rarely discussed at the time ['Best Ever Bond'-the 2002 top ten Bond moments show-has zero Dalton moments! and OHMSS only got in due to the ending] and the serious tone was seen as a misstep compared to Pierce bringing back the lighter tone even though LTK certainly made plenty of cash despite underperforming [Dalton not really becoming an A Lister probably contributed too as he's now a bit of a cult actor fav post 'Hot Fuzz']. Maybe the Craig era successful sustaining a serious Bond brought both back to prominence as fans checked out older films with a similar tone?
Surprised neither of you mentioned the repeated dialogue in the exposition scene about the diamond smuggling operation. I can’t help but to notice it from Sir Donald EVERYTIME I watch the film now:
“The whole process, from start to finish, is subject to an airtight security system. It's an essential precaution, though the industry prides itself on the loyalty and devotion of its workers.”
We could have found ourselves with Adam West facing Goldfinger's twin brother, and people call what we got camp. Roger Moore called this his favourite Bond film he was not in. The theme song, score and set design are some of the best of the series. The punch-up in the lift is a classic. Charles Gray appears to be awake when he is playing Blofeld, which is more than can be said of Christoph Waltz. The dialogue is better than anything we have had in the past 30 years. Connery always used a lot of doubles/stand-ins. If you couldn't see his face, it wasn't him.
Charles Gray is a massive downgrade from Telly Savalas as Blofeld.
I agree, I love this movie. Best part is the amazing dialogue, the way it constantly toys with the absurd. He got bitten by the bug; Shady Tree, I just love your act; I got a brudder too, Mr. Franks, my-my, look what the cat dragged in, etc etc. These are just off the cuff from memory; I can more or less quote the whole movie. My favourite is, Hey Curly, I wanted hi-test. You had your chance and you blew it! And the double-entendres - the best.
@@michaelsinger4638 This whole film is a downgrade from “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”! From the peak to the bottom of the pit. Oh, wait, that may be “Man With The Golden Gun” - another Guy Hamilton film!
I would have preferred Adam West vs Goldfinger’s twin brother. Surely it wouldn’t have been any worse than this!
You can tell it was going to be a different villain originally as Grey is really Blofeld 'in name only' .
"Best not to think about it. Just have fun." - Basil Exposition
I'm astonished how quick the last year has gone since the last debate.
Good timing, I was re watching the debates the past couple days!
Thank you both for taking the time to do these videos
the funniest bond film. Love it!
love this movie! It's definitely more comedy than spy thriller. And yes, it is campy but i think in hindsight it was a necessary course correction for the series, particularly considering Roger Moore would soon be the new Bond. i just have so much fun watching Diamonds.
Crazy, because this was my second movie as well. My brothers friends rented three Bond movies. My first Bond movie was On Her Majesties Secret Service then Diamonds, but the third was For Your Eyes Only. So I did get to see Bond get his revenge, but also saw three different actors in one sitting. Roger Moore was my favorite of the three that day. But oddly enough, Diamonds still feels like comfort viewing for me.
Diamonds are Forever has some kids in it like in the Circus Circus scene. That may be one way the movie appeals to kids.
Excellent viewing, I've been eagerly waiting for the next debate!
I'm not even a Bond fan but this channel is so wholesome, it's impossible not to enjoy every single video posted.
Great video really enjoyed it, diamonds was my first Bond film I saw in January 1972 Loved it then still love it today.
Excellent, been waiting for the next debate!
These videos are better than Road to a Million
I don't know why, but Diamonds has always been one of the most rewatchable for me😅 and the elevator fight is amazing
People really aged faster back then. He was 41 but looks 51.
It's not that, everyone just looks plastic now....
Baller move by David to wear the shirt Connery wore in DAF Bond James Bond reveal.
This one’s a personal favorite, I love how incredibly 60s it looks and it really rides that line between fun and cheeky quite well. Plus Jill St. John is one of the best bond girls ever.
🤦♂️
@@greatwutadude if you don't like the film you don't have to leave that emoji under every comment. Diamonds Is Not For Everyone.
I am a major bond fan especially Sean.. and went to see them as double bills with my dad...I can watch the connery ones over and over..although its not his best..it has a classic soundtrack to it..I have the cd and vinyl..John Barry was a genius..always loved the crematorium part..and that music wow!!😊..Jill st.john...not convincing..bambi and thumper were great....and of course Shirley bassey..title track..❤it...tis uneven..but not a bad bit of hokum..gazz
So happy to see another one of these videos. Love your content guys!!! Xxx
Sitting here on a Saturday and thought wow, it would be a great time to watch calvins everything or nothing in depth review!! Thanks for the content calvin!
I really enjoy these discussions, to the point where I occasionally find myself chipping in, even when I know that no-one can hear me. Diamonds is never likely to feature highly in my personal Bond movie rankings, but I do like Wint and Kidd, and while I understand why Charles Gray's performance as Blofeld is not to everyone's taste, I think it fits the overall tone of the film nicely. Moreover, for all the camp, there is an underlying urbane menace about Gray's Blofeld that is never far from the surface. When he threatens to have Metz shot, you feel he really means it.
Interesting also that you mentioned Starship Troopers. Every time I see that film, I think Dina Meyer would have made a better Christmas Jones than Denise Richards.
Great discussion guys, Diamonds was also my second Bond, which I saw on TV after LALD at the cinema.
When I watch all the Bond movies in chronological order, I always make an exception for the Connery films. I view all 7 of his first (yes, including NSNA!) because it avoids that awkward & jarring tonal shift from OHMSS to DAF. It also helps to make sense of why Blofeld doesn’t recognise Bond in Majesty’s.
Vegas ...... The Blackpool of the Desert .....Calvin you have to do a series of videos where you go and visit David ...... guaranteed ratings winner!
🥳 so pleased you’re covering this one! Haven’t got time to dive into yet but I’ll be watching asap. 😊
This film has always been in my top 10!!!!!
what a great in-depth discussion, love david's imitation pieces which are absolutely on point!
So glad to see another debate between you both. It's been a long time coming 😊
This is an official James Bond which is best enjoyed with an acholic beverage. Its the campiest Bond film which stars Sean Connery. It has a great score, some very funny gags, and memorable moments. Is is better view when a young child, yes. Can you still enjoy it as an adult, yes. It's silly entertainment and fun time.
Probably most effective to watch as a young child with an alcoholic beverage.
It was my first vintage Bond. Technically, it was weak and the story construction wasn't up to snuff but regardless, it's funny as hell. Diamonds was not meant to be thriller, it's a comedy.
Lovely to have another of these passionate face offs, & one of my very favourites too (nostalgia is STRONG!) 😊
Many thanks, gents 👍
These collaborations are both your best work.
The confusion about what Wint and Kidd are doing... I don't know if it's actually addressed in the dialogue but basically yes, I've always read it as 'Blofeld no longer needs any more diamonds, therefore he's killing off the pipeline so that they can't reveal any information that might lead back to him'. That's really the only way it makes sense.
The pipeline goes from the dentist to the teacher who takes them to Europe, to Tiffany who then travels with the diamonds to the US where they're deposited at the funeral home, then Shady Tree picks them up and - presumably - they go directly from him to Blofeld (who he presumably thinks is Willard White). I've never even considered the idea that White set up the diamond smuggling ring and Blofeld has just latched onto it, I don't think there's anything in the film that supports that reading. I think Blofeld set it up after he'd taken over White's organisation.
The whole 'diamond smuggling chain' is a hold over from the novel. and connecting it to the Blofeld 'death ray' plot is pretty clunky. I agree Wint+ Kidd is 'cleaning up' the diamond next work and I certainly don't buy White had anything to do with it. I think Blofled need White's organisation for the 'death ray' part of the plan only and combined it with the smuggling getting him the diamonds. Plotting is not one of the scripts strongest suits.
Loved it! So pleased you’re doing all of them! Bring on Goldfinger! 😊
Yay! Been too long since a debate video, great stuff!
Ed Bishop (played Straker in ‘UFO’) was briefly in this as the technician inspecting the radiation shields.
Klaus Hergershimer from G Section
51:50 My favorite Bond fan theory is that in DAF, Bond never actually meets Blofeld, who is still recovering from a broken neck as seen in FYEO. Ever instance Charles Grey appears in the film, he’s being Blofeld’s double keeping Bond off the trail.
An excellent theory. And one that will be hanging on the lips of the world quite soon. Lol.
Yes I like your review/discussion videos the best. I like this movie. Its Camp & over the top and a lot of fun. I can understand why Moore considered it his favourite Bond outside of his performances.
14:30 yes. It was the first attempt at a real James Bond comedy within the official series. But more than that, I feel that it was the genre of cozy. There aren’t any real steaks there aren’t any real threats there’s no grit.
It’s the perfect bond movie on a day home from school or work when you’re feeling sick and just want to lay on the couch and watch a BOND movie
Anyone else think that the pre-title sequence could be viewed as a follow on from YOLT where Blofeld escapes at the end. If you left out OHMSS you could move from Connerys fifth to his final fairly seamlessly.
Turns out Calvin says this
FYEO's opening was meant to be a direct sequel to OHMSS according to director John Glenn so if you swap Diamonds and OHMSS around it would fit.
Such a big fan of these relaxed conversations!
Most entertaining Bond ever. Not a Skyfall but sometimes I enjoy the lighter Bonds more than the heavy recent stuff. Easily in my Top 10.
I like to think that Mr Wint and Mr Kidd were introduced to each other as such on the first day of Henchman School. Over the coming weeks and months as their romance grew (stolen glances in garotting 101 etc.) they would always call each other Mr Wint and Mr Kidd to remind them of that very first day they met.
I know it’s hard to believe but DAF is my second favorite Bond movie
Charles Gray as Blofeld is one of the highlights of this for me, along with Wint & Kidd. Worst Blofeld is Christoph Waltz IMHO, which is really sad, he seemed a natural.
Final note: I saw this first run in December 1971. In the U.S., this was a HUGE DEAL. Connery's return was enormous. Also, I saw a double feature of OHMSS and Diamonds in the theater. It was also a big deal.
Me too! Loved the re-releases. Saw Diamonds and OHMSS in early 73.
Finally you are back in business ❤
Give the people what they want, more of these interviews 👍 great job
In 1971 we were thrilled to have Sean Connery back, so the movie went over great. The audience was hungry for more Bond movies. When I saw it, they didn't make the insert correcting the Mustang going through the alley on its right wheels and coming out on the left wheels. (lol)
That's interesting. I've never heard from somebody who saw it on first release. In the making of made decades later they give the impression that the flip was done during editing after a screening for Cubby. I wonder if this was changed after release or if your cinema ended up with a rogue copy.
@@davidjames579 The insert was shot shortly after the release when somebody pointed out the mistake.
@@folkblueswriter thanks for clearing that up.
This video is more entertaining than the film itself for me!! Haha
The best series on UA-cam is back!
Hey, Calvin! Have you ever made a video dedicated to your favorite badass Bond moments that happen throughout the films? This could even spill over into the video games as well!! Love the content, keep it up!
I have missed these videos - great collab
Diamonds Are Forever was the first Bond film I watched knowing conciously that I was watching a Bond film. And for the longest time it was the only one I saw on a regulary basis since it was my only DVD back then. I used to believe that all Bond Films were goofy and that people loved them because of that. Then I went to see Quantum of Solace in the cinema and a contrast was set 😂
At one time this film was my favorite Bond film. As an adult, I see all the problems it has, but I still always have a soft spot for it. Wint and Kidd may still be my favorite henchmen in the franchise.
I hope for your next debate you’ll discuss The Man with the Golden Gun!
Bravo. The dynamic duo are back
Using death of the author heuristics, I don’t think one should assume that this version of bond has a dead wife.
The pre-credits sequence begins in Japan and therefore we can assume if we wish that this is just his continuation of You Only Live Twice. Also, the way in which Bond interacts with Blofield does not have any of the intensity that should be in that interaction if this is the man who just killed Bond‘s wife.
The moneypenny banter which involves her asking for a diamond in a ring also strikes wrong. Bond and Monwypenny’s relationship is such that she would not be making those kind of jokes to a man whose wife was just murdered.
In what I now refer to as,” the Tracy, continuity “ diamonds Are Forever is the outlier. Every bond film from Dr. No through Licence to Kill is in the same continuity with Tracy‘s death. There are many signs in the more years that this bond was married to Tracy. There is also that fabulous scene at the wedding in Licence To Kill with some of Timothy Dalton‘s finest acting.
I agree that we need to contextualise the fashion in Diamonds Are Forever. If Bond had worn a narrow, dark tie and small collar, the audience would have thought him old-fashioned.
Oh my God - yes! Calvin, you're a genius - Diamonds Are Forever is the pantomime Bond!