James Bond, the modern spy based on the character created by Ian Fleming, was played by Sean Connery in several films during the 60's. David Niven was originally sought for the role, but proved too expensive.

The long running series of films began with Dr. No in 1962 based on Ian Fleming’s 1956 novel of the same name. The next film was From Russia With Love (1963) but the franchise did not become a major box office success until the third film Goldfinger (1964). Connery’s last jaunt as Bond was in 1970’s Diamonds are Forever, however he did reprise of his role in Never Say Never Again (1981).

Bond was the modern spy, inspired by the Cold War, who combated the forces of evil, made love to women and saved the world. He was licensed to kill and seduce, had a ‘live now pay later’ morality and a fascination with sophisticated gadgetry. His adversaries were usually maverick megalomaniacs, often from the East who inhabited futuristic fantasy environments. Sets for the films were designed by Ken Adam.

A memorable scene in the opening sequence of Goldfinger shows Bond removing his wetsuit to reveal a crisp, clean tuxedo. Bond stylishly adopted traditional men's garments and breathed a sexy new vibrancy into them and made them both modern and dashing.

Last updated: June 01, 2003

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