You only Live Twice (1967)

So finally they managed to use 2 years to make the next one. Perhaps Barry's best theme introduces the plot to space. One of the finest openings, as it is slow, methodical and filled with extreme tension as a result. Actually, Bond doesn't appear before in the third scene, as some old politicians needs to give the viewer an insight as to what is at stake. Expertedly done by director Lewis Gilbert.

As it is set in Japan, and that was very exotic at the time, we are of course treated to all the stereotypes. Sumo-wrestling, kimonos, bamboo, paper walls, sake, some very original methods of assassination, and ninjas of course.

Charles Gray is a very good contact point (pun intended) actually good enough to be recalled as Blofeld in "Diamonds are forever", and Donald Pleasence an excellent villain, even helping develop the legendary scar. His voice is slow and deliberate. The only way to measure his emotions is by how he's stroking his cat. Fantastic. And therefore a bit of a treat when we get to see his face right towards the end after only having heard his voice and seen his hand (and cat) so far in both he film and the franchise.

Tanba has fine chemistry with Connery, which is necessary as Wakabayashi is a bit demure for Bond and makes you miss Blackman. Though at least she is very direct as to making her relationship with Bond a physical one at an early stage, and saves his life twice. Llewellyn is in no form for Bonds childishness here, and that leaves the banter unused. But as he brings Little Nellie, we forgive him. Maxwell's flirt with Bond is pitch perfect this time around, and she even has him on defence for a split second.

They seemed to have spent a bit more time writing dialogue this time, and there is plenty of light-hearted puns and some cute misses at the English language from our Japanese friends (She is very sexyful). The scene with Tanaka and Bond as he is presented with potential wives is without a word and yet hilarious. The plot is also on the plus-side, as it is highly politically relevant and in that respect quite believable.

So the tension is good, the banter varying, the action much improved in 2 years, and the henchmen are useless. And there's nothing wrong with an epic ending with a 100 ninjas attacking a volcano base. No, no.

7/10

Best car used: Toyota 2000GT (though Bond never drives any car himself in this flick)
Most memorable drink served: Dry Martini, stirred not shaken. Bond lies well. Also Dom Perignon 59
Henchmen: Helga Brandt. Sexy, but not really menacing. Osato. A businessman. No threat other than to send swarms of thugs.
Villain: Ernest Stavro Blofeld. And Pleasence set a bar later actors would struggle to follow up.
Best one-liner: "Just a drop in the ocean"
Song: You only live Twice. Nancy Sinatra. A beautiful theme, but lacks the sass and virility from former instalments, partly because there is no big brass-section and her voice lacks the sheer power of her predecessors.
Bond-girl: Akiko Wakabayashi. Not particularly good as she lacks a bit of the "bad girl" and sheer power by presence the best have.