Widely regarded as one of the most enduring and iconic figures in cinema, the suave, sophisticated and improbably brave British secret agent James Bond is hands-down one of the most celebrated characters of all time. Launched in 1962 with Dr. No and featuring Sean Connery as the star of the show, the series has captivated audiences ever since with its thrilling action sequences, charming fantasy and sheer ingenuity.
Now boasting 26 movies over the last 50 plus years — and about to become 27 with the upcoming No Time to Die— there’s no denying that Bond’s legacy lives on. So why not jump into the wild world of 007 and evaluate the best Bond films today? From the classics to the new-age voice-overs, here’s a deep dive into the 007 movies and a ranking of the best James Bond films.
Classics
- Goldfinger (1964)
We’re kicking off the list with classic Bond—the Sean Connery version—and the one that made us fall in love with the character in the first place. Goldfinger is brimming with classic lines, great environments and a storyline that shakes its way to the very top. It’s everything you could want from a Bond classic.
- From Russia With Love (1963)
The sequel to Dr. No, this classic Bond movie is perhaps the defining moment when it comes to excellent 007 movies. A masterful performance by Connery, as well as an excellent villain, brilliant environment and some of the most thrilling action-packed sequences.
- The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)
This classic Roger Moore Bond movie offers complex action sequences combined with intense scenes of suspense. It’s often used as a measure of the finest entries in the franchise, and it’s no surprise why.
- Thunderball (1965)
If you’re into underwater Spy shenanigans, with Sean Connery twice as suave as usual, look no further than Thunderball. This epic classic includes a complex villain, skilfully directed action sequences and enough tension and suspense to satisfy even Bond’s biggest fans.
- Casino Royale (1967)
Of course, you can’t talk about Bond without mentioning Casino Royale. A classic in its own right, this David Niven-starring film includes complex action sequences and to-die-for camera angles. Plus, it’s capped off with one of the best finales ever seen in a 007 movie.
90s/ Late Connery
- Licence to Kill (1989)
After the classic Connery era, Timothy Dalton took on the role of 007 with Licence to Kill. A much darker turn than its predecessors, Licence to Kill is notable for its excellent performance, fantastic cinematography and outstanding suspense.
- The Living Daylights (1987)
One of the quintessential Dalton movies, The Living Daylights introduces the character of Alec Trevelyan—arguably one of the greatest Bond villains of all time. This one also includes some top-notch action, a nerve-wracking finish, and Dalton as the cold and calculating agent.
- Never Say Never Again (1983)
A one-off classic Bond movie, Never Say Never Again is one of the few times Connery was allowed to return to the role after a ten-year hiatus. Featuring some of his strongest work, the movie also includes some entertaining performances from both old and new Bond villains.
The Pierce Brosnan Era
- Goldeneye (1995)
Bringing us up to the current era, Goldeneye is a crucial pivot point in the Bond movies, introducing Pierce Brosnan to the role and providing a much-needed injection of dynamic energy. With great villains and a daring story, this one works its way to the top of the list.
- The World Is Not Enough (1999)
The penultimate Pierce Brosnan Bond movie is filled with tension, double-crossing, and some intense action sequences, making it one of the highlights of the series. It also introduces us to the timelessly cool Elektra King, making it even better.
- Die Another Day (2002)
Capping off the Brosnan trilogy is Die Another Day, filled with Bond’s trademark suspense, witty lines and intense action sequences. It’s a finale that’s as thrilling as it is impressive, making it one of the best entries of the entire saga.
The Daniel Craig Era
- Skyfall (2012)
The big one. Skyfall is often seen as the defining moment for the Daniel Craig Bond era, introducing a colder and more human side of the agent and delivering some of the finest sequences from the entire series. It’s both captivating and unequivocally outstanding.
- Casino Royale (2006)
Topping off the Daniel Craig era — at least, until the upcoming No Time to Die — is the iconic Casino Royale. Striking much of the right chords with action, suspense and dialogue, this casino-inspired classic may very well be Craig’s best.
- Quantum of Solace (2008)
Hot on the heels of Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace offers more of the same already acclaimed Craig-ian energy and intensity, making it a must-see for franchise fans. It’s not just a worthy sequel, it’s one of the best Bond movies of all time.
Well, there you have it: an exhaustive look at the top Bond movies, from the classics to the modern ones. Sure, everyone’s got their own opinion on what constitutes a great Bond movie, so feel free to disagree, but if you’re looking for an in-depth look into the top 007 movies, you can’t go wrong with this list. Now go ahead and get into the wild world of James Bond as we eagerly await the release of No Time To Die.
