There are twenty-seven James Bond films to date, released between 1962 and 2021. While Eon Productions officially recognizes twenty-five films in their core franchise, two additional films, Casino Royale (1967) and Never Say Never Again (1983), were produced independently and are considered part of the broader James Bond cinematic history.
The Core Eon Productions Franchise: Twenty-Five Official Films
Eon Productions, founded by Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman, holds the primary film rights to Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels. Their films are considered the official, canonical series. These movies feature a consistent production style, recognizable theme music, and generally adhere to the continuity established early on. The lineage began with Sean Connery as James Bond in Dr. No (1962) and continues through to Daniel Craig’s final performance in No Time to Die (2021). The actors playing Bond in the core series, along with the film titles, are:
- Sean Connery: Dr. No, From Russia with Love, Goldfinger, Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, Diamonds Are Forever
- George Lazenby: On Her Majesty’s Secret Service
- Roger Moore: Live and Let Die, The Man with the Golden Gun, The Spy Who Loved Me, Moonraker, For Your Eyes Only, Octopussy, A View to a Kill
- Timothy Dalton: The Living Daylights, Licence to Kill
- Pierce Brosnan: GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World Is Not Enough, Die Another Day
- Daniel Craig: Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre, No Time to Die
The “Unofficial” Bond Films: Casino Royale (1967) and Never Say Never Again (1983)
Outside of the Eon Productions umbrella, two films feature James Bond but are not considered part of the official continuity. These arose due to separate legal battles over the film rights to specific Ian Fleming novels.
Casino Royale (1967)
This comedic spoof of the James Bond films stars David Niven as Sir James Bond, originally known as James Bond 007, who is brought out of retirement to investigate the deaths of several agents. It’s a far cry from the serious espionage thrillers that define the Eon series and is often dismissed by serious Bond fans.
Never Say Never Again (1983)
This film holds particular interest as it features Sean Connery reprising his role as James Bond, twelve years after Diamonds Are Forever. Produced by Jack Schwartzman, it’s a remake of Thunderball and stems from a legal dispute over screenplay credit for that film. Because it was not an Eon production, it is not typically included in the official count.
The Future of James Bond: What’s Next?
The future of James Bond remains a topic of intense speculation. Following Daniel Craig’s departure, the search is on for the next actor to embody 007. Eon Productions has confirmed that the next Bond will be a “reinvention” of the character, suggesting a fresh approach while maintaining the core elements that have made James Bond a global icon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the official James Bond movie franchise?
The official James Bond movie franchise refers to the twenty-five films produced by Eon Productions. These are the films that are generally considered to be the canonical James Bond story.
Why are Casino Royale (1967) and Never Say Never Again (1983) not considered official?
These films were not produced by Eon Productions. They resulted from separate legal battles over the film rights to specific Ian Fleming novels. While they feature James Bond, they exist outside the established continuity and production standards of the official series.
Who was the first actor to play James Bond?
Sean Connery was the first actor to portray James Bond on film, debuting in Dr. No in 1962.
Who has played James Bond the most times?
Roger Moore portrayed James Bond in seven films, from Live and Let Die (1973) to A View to a Kill (1985).
Which James Bond film has grossed the most money worldwide?
Skyfall (2012), starring Daniel Craig, is the highest-grossing James Bond film, having earned over $1.1 billion worldwide.
Which James Bond film had the lowest budget?
Dr. No (1962) had the lowest budget of the Eon Productions films, reportedly costing around $1 million (equivalent to approximately $10 million today).
Who owns the rights to James Bond?
Eon Productions, specifically Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, currently control the film rights to the James Bond franchise. Amazon acquired MGM, which co-owns Eon Productions.
Are there any plans for more James Bond movies?
Yes, Eon Productions is actively developing the next James Bond film. While no actor has been cast, the producers have indicated that they are looking for a fresh take on the character.
Will the next James Bond be a woman?
While Barbara Broccoli has stated that James Bond will remain a male character, she has also emphasized the importance of strong female characters within the Bond universe.
What happens to the James Bond character after he is “killed off” in No Time to Die?
The character will be recast and reinvented for future films. The James Bond franchise is known for its ability to adapt and evolve over time. While Daniel Craig’s Bond’s arc is complete, James Bond as a character will return.
What are the key elements that define a James Bond movie?
Key elements include:
- Charismatic and resourceful secret agent: James Bond, codename 007.
- High-stakes espionage plots: Often involving global threats.
- Exotic locations: From glamorous casinos to remote island lairs.
- Memorable villains: With elaborate schemes and henchmen.
- “Bond girls”: Often intelligent and capable women.
- Iconic theme music: Composed by Monty Norman and arranged by John Barry.
- Gadgets and weaponry: Supplied by Q Branch.
- Stylish action sequences: Including car chases and fight scenes.
- A sophisticated lifestyle: Including tailored suits, martinis (shaken, not stirred), and high-stakes gambling.
Where can I watch James Bond movies?
James Bond movies are available on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video due to Amazon’s acquisition of MGM. They are also frequently available for rent or purchase on digital platforms and on physical media (Blu-ray, DVD). Check local listings for television airings.