James Bond and comedy
James Bond marks his 70th birthday this year, having first burst forth into the public sphere in author Ian Fleming's 1953 novel Casino Royale.
The film series based upon the character has become one of the most iconic in British cinema history, but far from being strait-laced, gritty crime-thrillers, the 25 titles made by Eon are noted for a certain element of comic flair - particularly under the tenure of Roger Moore in the lead role during the 1970s and 80s, but also in the initial run of 60s films starring Sean Connery - that have made them ripe for spoof (such as Russ Abbott's Basildon Bond) ever since.
Gambling is a mainstay of the series, with many of Commander Bond's witty ripostes being uttered in one flashy casino or another: indeed, it is over a card table that audiences meet James on-screen for the very first time, at the opening of Dr. No (1962), immortalising the now iconic and oft-imitated introduction: "Bond, James Bond".
Such cinematic depictions of gambling environments often ooze glamour so it's no surprise they have long been popular with audiences, and the gambling industry is currently witnessing a renewed surge in popularity. And whilst many prefer to play their favourite games in a real casino, there are numerous ways to recreate something of the atmosphere at home. One such option is visiting online casinos, where many gamblers continually search for the best bonuses on websites like https://wheregamble.com/casino-bonuses-australia/ to wager more. Others prefer to simply sit back and get lost in the worlds depicted on screen, and in the 007 series they're regularly laden with those extra camp comic touches.
You Only Live Twice
1967's You Only Live Twice is the fifth film from Eon Productions, and Connery takes on the role - for the last time in his original time playing the part. Based on Fleming's 1964 novel of the same name, it sees Bond dispatched to Japan after American and Soviet manned spacecraft disappear mysteriously in orbit.
Widely considered one of the most iconic Bond films, it was directed by Lewis Gilbert and scored by John Barry, with a theme song performed by Nancy Sinatra. A huge commercial success, it's been cited as an influence on just about every spy spoof produced since, from Hollywood blockbusters like Austin Powers to sitcoms such as Intelligence.
On Her Majesty's Secret Service
On Her Majesty's Secret Service is Eon's sixth James Bond movie and stands out for a particular innovative fusion of humour and action. Now played (in his only appearance) by George Lazenby, Bond's attempts to infiltrate the Ernst Stavro Blofeld-led criminal business while also trying to protect Tracy di Vicenzo, the daughter of Marc-Ange Draco, are at the heart of the plot. It contains a number of humorous moments that assist to lighten some of its heavier passages. For instance, when the two first meet as "Bond, James Bond," Draco responds and introduces himself as "Draco, Marc-Ange Draco". This conversation sets up a fun dynamic between them that lasts the entire film.
The manner in which Bond interacts with many other characters is not dissimilar. For instance, when he meets with Number Two (played by Telly Savalas), the second in command at SPECTRE, James manages to crack a few jokes. This highlights his slick demeanour and demonstrates his ability to remain cool under pressure. There are numerous further instances that see 007 employ his signature charm to escape difficult circumstances or outwit his adversaries.
From Russia With Love
Back to Connery and the second Bond film, From Russia With Love was released in 1963. The story follows James as he travels to Istanbul on a mission to retrieve a Soviet decoding machine - quite a sophisticated task. Along the way, he meets Tatiana Romanova, a beautiful Russian agent who helps him complete his mission. Despite being so early in its long (and continuing) run, the film features some of the most iconic scenes in the entire series, including an epic fight scene between Bond and Red Grant aboard the Orient Express. It also packs in plenty of Bond's trademark humour and wit, making it a real fan favourite.
With its strong Russian element, it's another Bond film that is packed with comic retorts and is particularly regularly cited as influential on spoofs and satires since.