Revisiting a Classic: “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”
As a lifelong James Bond fan, the task of revisiting one of the most unique entries in the Bond franchise, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” is both a delight and a challenge. Released in 1969, this film marked a significant departure from the preceding Bond films, primarily due to the introduction of George Lazenby as the iconic British spy. While it may not be as universally celebrated as some of the other Bond films, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” offers a distinct charm and depth that make it a standout in the series.
A New Bond, A New Era
The departure of Sean Connery from the role of James Bond was a seismic shift for the franchise. George Lazenby, an Australian model with no prior acting experience, was an unconventional choice to fill Connery’s shoes. Lazenby’s performance has been the subject of much debate over the years. While he lacked the suave confidence and seasoned presence of Connery, Lazenby brought a fresh vulnerability and human touch to Bond, which was fitting for the story’s more emotional and personal narrative.
The film opens with Bond rescuing a woman, Contessa Teresa “Tracy” di Vicenzo, from an apparent suicide attempt. This daring rescue is followed by one of the most iconic lines in Bond history: “This never happened to the other fellow.” This tongue-in-cheek nod to the change in actors sets the tone for a film that is both self-aware and eager to carve out its own identity within the series.
A Love Story at Its Core
At its heart, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” is a love story. Tracy, portrayed by the mesmerizing Diana Rigg, is unlike any other Bond girl. She is strong, independent, and deeply complex, providing a perfect counterpart to Bond. Their relationship evolves from mutual intrigue to genuine affection, culminating in Bond’s marriage proposal. This romantic arc adds a layer of emotional depth that is rarely seen in Bond films, making the tragic ending all the more poignant.
The chemistry between Lazenby and Rigg is palpable, and their relationship is portrayed with a sincerity that grounds the film. Tracy’s influence on Bond is profound, showcasing a more vulnerable and human side of the typically invincible spy. This emotional depth is a testament to the film’s strong script and direction.
An Engaging Plot and Stunning Locations
The plot of “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” revolves around Bond’s pursuit of Blofeld, the nefarious leader of SPECTRE, who is hiding in the Swiss Alps. Blofeld, played by Telly Savalas, is a formidable adversary. Savalas brings a charismatic menace to the role, making him one of the more memorable villains in the series.
The film’s pacing is brisk, with a mix of thrilling action sequences and quieter, character-driven moments. The ski chase scenes are particularly noteworthy, showcasing breathtaking cinematography and edge-of-your-seat excitement. The Swiss Alps provide a stunning backdrop for the film, and the use of real locations adds to the authenticity and visual appeal.
A Departure in Tone and Style
Director Peter R. Hunt, who had worked on previous Bond films as an editor, brings a distinct style to “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” The film’s editing is sharp and innovative, with dynamic action sequences and a more grounded, realistic approach to storytelling. The film also boasts a memorable score by John Barry, with the theme song “We Have All the Time in the World” performed by Louis Armstrong becoming an enduring classic.
The film’s tone is noticeably different from its predecessors. It is less reliant on gadgets and outlandish set pieces, focusing instead on character development and narrative depth. This departure in style might have been jarring for some fans at the time, but it has aged remarkably well, giving the film a timeless quality.
A Bittersweet Legacy
“On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” was not initially a box office success, and George Lazenby’s tenure as Bond was short-lived. However, the film’s reputation has grown over the years, with many fans and critics now considering it one of the best in the series. Its unique blend of romance, action, and emotional depth sets it apart from other Bond films, and Lazenby’s portrayal of Bond, while divisive, is undeniably memorable.
The film’s ending is one of the most heartbreaking in the franchise. Bond and Tracy’s wedding, followed by Tracy’s tragic death at the hands of Blofeld, leaves the audience with a profound sense of loss. This emotional conclusion underscores the film’s central theme: even James Bond, the ultimate spy, is not immune to personal tragedy. Revisiting “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” is a reminder of the film’s unique place in the James Bond canon. It may not have the same iconic status as some of the other entries, but its emotional depth, compelling characters, and stunning visuals make it a standout. George Lazenby’s lone outing as Bond may have been brief, but it left an indelible mark on the series, proving that even the world’s most famous spy can have a heart. If you haven’t seen it in a while, or if you’ve never seen it at all, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” is well worth a watch.
