As a woman who has worked in the service industry, I can’t help but feel dismayed when I see scenes like Dink laying hands on Bond’s masseuse without her consent. Such behavior is not just playful; it’s a clear example of sexual harassment that still unfortunately exists in many workplaces today.
In his fictional world, James Bond has consistently excelled in his line of work, yet he hasn’t always displayed impeccable manners. Originally, this character was portrayed as somewhat of a rebellious figure by author Ian Fleming beyond the storyline. Over the years, screenwriters have maintained Bond’s edgy traits when adapting the stories from books to movies. The novels themselves contained insensitive aspects, but due to their critical acclaim, directors didn’t see a need for significant modifications.
As a devoted cinephile, I must acknowledge that some classic James Bond films showcase scenes that, given today’s standards, would likely be deemed unacceptable. These instances, often brushed off as “reflections of their era,” undeniably hold this truth. In our modern society, where empathy and understanding are paramount, certain actions portrayed by the characters can stir significant controversy and upset.
In order to adapt with the shifting era, the franchise has undergone significant transformations, to the extent that Daniel Craig’s last portrayal as the character, “No Time to Die“, lacked any romantic or intimate scenes, surprisingly, given its nearly three-hour runtime. Some argue whether Bond films are veering towards excessive political correctness. Let’s instead explore some iconic Bond sequences that would be unlikely to appear in contemporary films.
8 Bond Orders a Black Man to Fetch His Shoes
Dr. No (1962)
In the novel “Dr. No”, MI6 agent John Strangways mysteriously vanishes in Jamaica, leading Bond to be dispatched for an investigation. Upon arrival, he crosses paths with Quarell, a local guide who had previously worked alongside Strangways. It’s important to note that Quarell is not Bond’s servant; however, while Bond is engrossed in flirting with a woman wearing a bikini, he instructs the man to retrieve his shoes, which were merely a few meters away.
Slavery Undertones
In the 1960s, it was inappropriate to portray Quarell as a submissive character, given the context of the Civil Rights Movement and the global struggle for independence from British colonial rule. This period marked significant efforts towards racial equality in America and attempts by numerous countries worldwide to free themselves from the grip of British colonization.
It’s worth noting that Dr. No was released just a short time after Jamaica achieved independence in the 1960s – a detail that might raise eyebrows in today’s era, which places a heightened emphasis on racial sensitivity.
7 Bond Blackmails a Nurse Into Sleeping with Him
Thunderball (1965)
In Thunderball, when Bond manages to survive an assassination attempt at the Shrublands Health Clinic, he declares, “Someone is going to regret that this day ever took place.” However, Nurse Patricia misunderstands his words and thinks he’s accusing her of being incompetent. “Please, I might lose my job!” she pleads. Noticing her distress, Bond suggests a solution to her predicament by proposing intimacy, saying, “Perhaps my silence could carry a cost.” As a result, the two engage in a sexual encounter.
The Inappropriate Moment Ruins an Otherwise Great Movie
Thunderball is terrific viewing for anyone interested in the geopolitics surrounding NATO. Besides that, Director Terrence Young never shies from depicting Bond’s famous complexities and weaknesses. The result is a film that convincingly shows why he is the greatest movie spy of all time. Sadly, the scene with Nurse Patricia ruins the wonderful characterization. Even worse, he counters her “Oh no!” with a creepy “Oh yes!”
6 Bond Stereotypes an Indian Man
Octopussy (1983)
In the film “Octopussy”, James Bond embarks on his worldwide escapades, which take him to India. There, he encounters a woman managing a smuggling operation and becomes aware of a plan to detonate an American Air Force base in West Germany. During his stay, various Indian stereotypes are portrayed, including those concerning the country’s food culture. In one instance, Bond offers a large sum of money to someone and queries, “Won’t that be enough for you to enjoy curry for several weeks?”
Curry Isn’t a Constant Preference
A less offensive way for Bond’s statement might be: “Bold of Moore’s Bond to presume all Indians only eat curry and spend their money on it alone, a statement that would have certainly earned Craig’s Bond criticism.” However, in context, this wasn’t the most problematic moment compared to others during the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. With a more diplomatic approach, Bond could have shown kindness by leaving a tip and encouraging the man to enjoy his meal.
5 Bond’s Forceful Interrogation of Miss Anders
The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
In search of details about Francisco Scaramanga, Bond encounters his mistress, Miss Anders, while she’s in the shower. He aims to extract valuable information from her. As anticipated, she remains silent, knowing that disloyalty could lead to a deadly shot from Scaramanga’s golden gun. Unable to leave her be, Bond grabs her arm and warns he will break it if she doesn’t comply. Even after this, she continues to withhold information, so Bond resorts to slapping her.
Bond Puts Anders in Pain and a Tough Spot
In this case, Anders is merely a victim, and Bond is supposed to be a good guy. She isn’t with Fransisco Scaramanga willingly. It’s obvious that if she leaves him, he will kill her. Bond’s choice to forcefully extract information from her thus adds to her misery. By engaging Anders, Bond also seals her fate. As soon as Scaramanga learns she is talking to him, he kills her.
4 Bond Locks Nick Nack, a Man with Dwarfism, in a Suitcase
The Man with the Golden Gun (1974)
Francisco Scaramanga’s right-hand man, Nick Nack, frequently loiters around his boss’s estate. When it comes to dealing with Bond, he gives it his all, but due to his physical stature, he often finds himself at a disadvantage. Bond often goes the extra mile to embarrass him. To start, he intentionally breaks a chair’s frame and attempts to retrieve Nick Nack from under a sofa as if he were a pet. Towards the end of the movie, he confines Nick Nack within a suitcase and throws it into the sea.
An Easy Win for Bond?
The scene where Nick Nack being confined in a suitcase is often cited as one of the most humorous moments in Roger Moore’s Bond films, but it’s important to note that such humor has largely become outdated and insensitive. Today, any attempt to mock or make light of individuals with dwarfism would be widely criticized and viewed negatively.
Apart from being flawless in his role as a henchman, Director Guy Hamilton deserves credit for adding depth to Nick Nack’s character. Notably, it was the same creative mind behind the meticulous creation of Oddjob and Baron Samedi.
3 “Man Talk!” With a Slap on the Rear
Goldfinger (1964)
For much of the movie “Goldfinger”, Bond persistently tracks down Auric Goldfinger, a wealthy bullion dealer. His pursuit starts when CIA agent Felix Leiter briefs him at Miami’s Hotel Fontainebleau. During this meeting, Bond receives a massage from Dink, whom he then introduces to Felix. Afterward, he sends her away, saying, “Dink, bid farewell to Felix. Men’s business!” As she departs, he playfully swats her on the backside.
Sexual Harassment or Mere Playfulness?
In this scenario, it’s important to note that Dink is merely a masseuse, not Bond’s romantic partner. This means he doesn’t have the authority to touch her in any inappropriate way. The scene could lead to debates about the mistreatment and sexual harassment of women in service industries by their male clients. Even if they were romantically linked, concerns would still arise regarding consent, given the context of a PG-13 film where it’s questionable for a man to be spanking a woman on screen.
In a Bond film from the 2020s, after the masseuse finishes her work, she’d depart, allowing the two men to engage in conversation without the need for any “man talk” dialogue.
2 Bond is Surprised That Dr. Goodhead is a Woman
Moonraker (1979)
Dr. Goodhead, as depicted in ‘Moonraker’, raises several questions, even her name being one of them. Initially, Bond was under the impression that Dr. Goodhead was a man due to his chauvinistic outlook. Upon meeting her, he’s taken aback because she’s actually a woman, which is something he finds disappointing at first but also exciting since he enjoys spending time with women.
An Obvious Gender Balance Issue
As a movie enthusiast, I’ve always appreciated the Bond films, but the adaptation of “Moonraker” presents an intriguing deviation from its literary roots since the character of Dr. Goodhead, who is central to the story in the book, is nowhere to be found on the big screen. This unusual character introduction can’t be pinned on Ian Fleming, the author, as it seems he was simply reflecting the gender dynamics of the 20th century workplaces, where women were significantly underrepresented compared to today. It’s heartening to see that both society and the Bond franchise have progressed immensely since then.
1 Bond Rubbishes Pussy Galore’s Sexual Orientation and Kisses Her
Goldfinger (1964)
In the story of Goldfinger, Pussy Galore initially fawns over Goldfinger, discussing her gold-related business, until Bond charms her. What makes this romantic arc unusual is that Miss Galore identifies as a lesbian. She informs Bond about her sexuality, but he doubts it, eventually winning her affection and even sharing a kiss with her. It’s hinted that she has changed allegiance. Not only does she become intimate with Bond, but she also betrays her superior.
‘Turning’ a Lesbian is Both Impossible and Unnecessary
007’s charm towards every character in the Bond films is a recurring theme. Yet, it could be plausible for him to face a roadblock with Miss Galore since she doesn’t feel attracted to men. The idea of Daniel Craig’s Bond attempting to kiss a woman who identifies as gay and ‘converting’ her would spark heated discussions on social media. This action might suggest that heterosexuality is superior to lesbianism, which could upset advocates for LGBTQ+ rights. Such an act is sure to provoke strong reactions.
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2024-08-25 05:02