James Bond movies have captivated audiences and filled theaters for more than 50 years, and determining the best movies of the franchise would probably incite some serious debate amongst 007 fans.
There is no arguing with success of the James Bond series, though.
AMC’s Filmsite ranked it in the list of top franchises of all time, as determined by box office revenue.
With no signs of slowing down, James Bond has an ardent worldwide following.
Nevertheless, Rotten Tomatoes has put together a list, and here’s what that entertainment website selected:
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#1 – “Dr. No”
The series’ first outing,
“Dr. No,” ranked as the best James Bond movie, according to Rotten Tomatoes. It has a 98 percent rating on the Tomatometer, which places it in the top echelon.
Jeffrey Lyles, from Lyles Movie Files, said of the film, “About as perfect a franchise-starter as you could imagine and certainly accomplishes the task of leaving you eagerly anticipating Bond's next adventure.”
#2 – “Casino Royale”
When Daniel Craig was cast as James Bond, a lot of discussion ensued over the fact that he was blond. Bond has traditionally been played by men with dark hair.
However, once audiences saw the film, they quickly forgot their concerns about Craig’s appearance, and Royale has a 95 percent rating on the Tomatometer.
David Edelstein, of New York Magazine, said of Craig’s performance, “I hope Craig finds more moments like that in Bond. And I hope he gets to wear that tuxedo again and again and again.”
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#3 – “Goldfinger”
This movie set the standard for what truly blockbuster Bond movies need to live up to, and it ranks third on Rotten Tomatoes’ list of best James Bond movies.
With a 96 percent rating from reviewers, “Goldfinger” is arguable Sean Connery’s finest outing as Bond. In fact,
Variety said of Goldfinger, “There's not the least sign of staleness in this third sample of the Bond 007 formula.”
#4 - From Russia With Love
Connery’s second Bond film is considered one of the best, and Love doesn’t disappoint. While it lacks a lot of the over-the-top gadgets and out-of-this-world plots that Bond films would become famous for under Roger Moore, “From Russia With Love” still packed a punch.
Time Magazine said of the film,” Sophisticated? Well, not really. But fast, smart, shrewdly directed and capably performed.”
#5 – Skyfall
Ranking fifth on this list of Best James Bond movies, this 2012 release, again with Craig, earned 92 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
“It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a Bond movie so much,” wrote Tom Charity, of CNN.
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