The James Bond series is a box-office behemoth, spanning six decades, six actors, and over two and a half dozen movies. But with so many martinis shaken (not stirred), gadgets unleashed, and bad guys foiled, which Bond films actually shine—and which fall short? Let’s explore the definitive 007 countdown, from most polarizing entries to downright greatest, as hotly debated by critics, fans, and the occasional MI6 operative.
10. Never Say Never Again – The Unofficial Outlier
When Sean Connery reprised his role as Bond in 1983’s “Never Say Never Again,” all eyes were on it. But this non-Eon production—a remake of “Thunderball,” essentially—is always the black sheep. “Never Say Never Again” was ranked as the worst James Bond film, as voted in a UK poll referenced by Screen Rant. But the article contends that its unofficial standing and ugly production history unjustly sully its reputation. Although Connery’s age is playfully ridiculed and the story is somewhat confusing, there is still a bit of vintage Bond charm. It is not the worst Bond movie ever produced, but it is clearly the weirdest.
9. Die Another Day – Brosnan’s Misfire
Pierce Brosnan’s farewell as 007, “Die Another Day”, is remembered for its invisible cars, excess CGI, and a plot that even Bond’s gadgets could not rescue. As MoviesAndScience.com describes it, Brosnan’s Bond was “the generic choice that checks all the boxes”, but this one is generally agreed to be his worst. Even the die-hard fans have trouble defending its excesses.
8. Quantum of Solace – Craig’s Stumble
Daniel Craig’s second Bond effort was plagued by a writer’s strike, and the result is a film that is disjointed and rushed. TechRadar says that “Quantum of Solace” is “an obvious choice for bottom spot” among Craig’s efforts. The villain is unmemorable, the storyline is in disarray, and the editing is manic. Even so, Craig’s battered Bond and Judi Dench’s M bring some saving graces.
7. Octopussy – Moore’s Campy Low Point
Roger Moore’s Bond is usually remembered for his suave humor, but “Octopussy” pushes the camp element to new extremes—and not for the better. According to MoviesAndScience.com, “Octopussy” is Moore’s worst Bond film, representing the franchise at its most absurd. Nevertheless, Moore’s charm is able to make things tolerable even when the plot derails.
6. Licence to Kill – Dalton’s Dark Turn
Timothy Dalton added a grittier, more serious tone to Bond, but “Licence to Kill” polarized audiences. Some enjoyed the darker tone, while others missed fun-loving, suave 007. As ScreenHub Entertainment puts it, Dalton’s Bond was “more grumpy and less approachable,” and the movie’s 80s DEA feel didn’t assist. Nevertheless, it’s an interesting experiment that set the stage for the reboots to come.
5. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service – Lazenby’s Tearful One-Off
George Lazenby appeared as Bond just the once, but what a thrill ride it was. “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” is invariably counted amongst the most emotional of the franchise. ScreenHub Entertainment suggests that Lazenby instilled “a small dose of charisma” and a badly needed human element into the character. The tragic conclusion to the film still has an impact, and many fans wish that Lazenby had remained for more.
4. The World Is Not Enough – Brosnan’s High Note
Although Brosnan’s Bond movies are uneven, “The World Is Not Enough” is the standout for its good villain and traditional Bond action. As MoviesAndScience.com points out, Brosnan “has the looks and the acting chops”, and this movie allows him to shine. It is not flawless, but it is a reminder of how much fun Bond can be when all the pieces come together.
3. Casino Royale – Craig’s gritty reboot
When Daniel Craig was chosen as Bond, the cynics were out in full force. But “Casino Royale” quieted the critics with a rough, hard-hitting revamp that reimagined the character for the modern age. It was “a grittier, more realistic reworking of the iconic spy,” TechRadar reported. Eva Green’s Vesper Lynd and Mads Mikkelsen’s Le Chiffre are not soon forgotten, and the film’s emotional center paved the way for Craig’s whole stint.
2. Goldfinger – Connery’s Iconic Classic
No Bond list would be complete without “Goldfinger”. Sean Connery’s third appearance as 007 is the gold standard for the franchise, with iconic villains, gadgets, and one-liners. As Ultimate Classic Rock noted, Connery “moves like a panther and is dashing in a suit as always”. “Goldfinger” established the template for all Bond films to come and is still a fan favorite.
1. Skyfall – The Modern Masterpiece
At the top of the list is “Skyfall”, which mixes vintage Bond fare with contemporary storytelling and emotional complexity. As per a UK survey that was quoted by Screen Rant, “Skyfall” was the top-rated James Bond film of all time. Directed by Sam Mendes, with the beautiful cinematography of Roger Deakins, and an unforgettable foe in Javier Bardem, “Skyfall” is an action-packed spy thriller as well as a moving back-story of Bond. It’s the highest-grossing Bond film to date and, for many, the pinnacle of the franchise.