Screenplay: Tom Mankiewicz; Based on Live and Let Die by Ian Fleming
Producer: Harry Saltzman, Albert R. Broccoli
Cast: Roger Moore, Yaphet Kotto, Jane Seymour, Clifton James, Geoffrey Holder
Cinematography: Ted Moore
Music: George Martin, Theme song “Live and Let Die” by Paul McCartney
United Artists
A man comes. He travels quickly. He has purpose. He comes over water. He travels with others. He will oppose. He brings violence and destruction.
James Bond is back, and this time he's facing a villain like no other – a powerful heroin drug lord with a sinister worldwide network, bolstered by psychics and voodoo mysticism. But don't expect a dark and brooding Bond this time around. In Live and Let Die we are introduced to a whole new flavor of 007 – one that embraces campiness with open arms.
Throughout the years, we've seen various actors breathe life into the iconic character, each bringing their own unique touch to the role. Roger Moore's interpretation of Bond is no exception. With a wry and dark sense of humor, he adds a distinctive charm to the character. While all the Moore-era Bond films exhibit an endearing level of silliness and campiness, Live and Let Die serves as the introduction to this lighter take on the beloved spy.
In an era replete with Blaxploitation films like Shaft and Superfly, the 1970s gave birth to a Bond/Blaxploitation crossover. The result is wacky and, at times, a hilarious ride. The film has its fair share of quirks, with the word "Honky" playfully thrown around and a voodoo witch doctor adding a touch of mysticism to the plot. Watching James Bond dash through the vibrant streets of Harlem only adds to the film's charm.
Live and Let Die marks the beginning of the Moore era, embracing a lighter and more whimsical approach to the character. Some might argue it veers away from the traditional Bond formula, but at its core, it's still unmistakably James Bond. The movie delivers thrilling car chases, jaw-dropping explosions, an array of alluring women, and, of course, a healthy dose of bad guys meeting their timely demise.
So, if you're in the mood for some pure, unapologetic escapism, Live and Let Die is the perfect choice. It's a Bond film that revels in its campy goofiness, and you'll find yourself thoroughly entertained from start to finish. After all, who doesn't want to witness the world's most famous spy tackle voodoo, psychics, and a powerful drug lord with a grin on their face? In the end, this movie delivers precisely what you'd expect from a Bond film – action, intrigue, and a whole lot of fun. And there ain't nothing wrong with that.
Plus, how awesome is the Paul McCartney song?
- There seems to be some mistake. My name is...
- Names is for tombstones, baby! Y'all take this honky out and waste him! Now!
Notable Awards & Accomplishments
• Academy Award Nominee: Best Song - “Live and Let Die” by Paul McCartney & Linda McCartney
• Grammy Nominee: Best Score for a Motion Picture
• 7th Highest Grossing Movie of 1973, $161.8 Million worldwide ($1.1 Billion adjusted for inflation)
