James Bond Film 'Diamonds Are Forever' Criticised as 'Masterclass in How Not to Make 007 Movie'
The 1971 James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, starring Sean Connery, is scheduled to air on ITV4 tonight, but it has faced scathing criticism from fans who describe it as a "masterclass in how not to make a 007 movie." Released over five decades ago, this installment in the iconic spy franchise has garnered a reputation for being "dull" and "lacklustre," with some viewers urging others to "save yourself the pain and watch any other installment in the series instead."
Plot and Production Details
In Diamonds Are Forever, Sean Connery returns as the suave British spy James Bond, tasked with investigating a complex diamond smuggling ring that spans from Amsterdam to the glittering casinos of Las Vegas. The plot thickens as 007 uncovers a sinister scheme orchestrated by his arch-nemesis, Ernst Stavro Blofeld, who plans to use stolen diamonds to construct a laser-satellite weapon capable of threatening global superpowers. Despite Connery's iconic portrayal, this film is often overshadowed by his other Bond classics, such as Goldfinger, and has struggled to win over audiences and critics alike.
Fan Reviews and Critical Reception
On the popular film ratings website Rotten Tomatoes, Diamonds Are Forever has scored a modest 64%, which falls below the ratings of many other Bond films. Fan reviews have been particularly harsh, with one critic labelling it a "cinematic disaster that should have remained buried in the depths of film history." The criticism extends to multiple aspects of the production:
- Performance: Sean Connery's acting is described as "lacklustre" and "tired," with some noting he appears "blatantly past it and not caring about anything other than the pay."
- Plot and Action: The storyline is criticised as "uninspired" and "hollow," focusing on the diamond industry rather than a compelling global threat. Action sequences are deemed "laughably choreographed" and "clumsy," relying on plot armour rather than Bond's skill.
- Characters: The Bond girls are called "forgettable," while the villain Blofeld is mocked as "about as intimidating as a wet noodle." Supporting characters like Mr. Kidd and Mr. Wint add an "unsettling edge" but fail to salvage the film.
- Technical Elements: Special effects are noted as "outdated" and "terrible-looking," with explosions that detract from the viewing experience.
One review summarised the sentiment by stating, "All Shine, No Sparkle," highlighting how the film feels "oddly lifeless" and "unnecessary." Another fan gave it just one star, lamenting, "Never have I been so bored watching a Bond film," due to its "completely uninteresting plot" and lack of engaging characters.
Contrasting Positive Opinions
Despite the overwhelming negativity, not all reviews are critical. Some viewers have praised Diamonds Are Forever, with one calling it "by far the best of the early Bond films." They highlighted Charles Gray's performance as a villain, describing it as having "Shakespearean acting capability" and suggesting he deserves posthumous recognition for his contribution to British entertainment. Another positive review noted that while it may not match the spectacle of 1960s Bond films, "Connery's return keeps things watchable and, at times, even exciting."
Broadcast Information and Legacy
Diamonds Are Forever airs on ITV4 tonight at 9pm, offering audiences a chance to revisit this polarising entry in the James Bond series. As part of the broader franchise, it remains a topic of debate among fans, with some considering it the worst of Connery's Bond films, while others appreciate its nostalgic value and Connery's enduring charm. The film's mixed reception underscores the challenges of maintaining quality in a long-running series, even with a legendary actor at its helm.
