Is Licence to Kill the Most Underrated Bond Film?

A Dive into a Darker BonLicence to Kill

The cinematic world of James Bond often conjures images of glamour, thrilling escapades, and an ever-charismatic hero. Yet, amidst the suave sophistication lies a strikingly gritty chapter—Licence to Kill. Released in 1989, this film isn’t just another entry in the franchise; it’s a riveting exploration of revenge, loss, and the personal cost of duty.

Ranked as the 11th best Bond film by Rotten Tomatoes, Licence to Kill boasts a commendable 79% critics approval rating. Despite receiving mixed reviews, one critic championed it as a treasure worth revisiting, highlighting Timothy Dalton’s portrayal of the iconic MI6 agent. Dalton’s unique approach may have been overshadowed by his predecessors, but he brought a darker, more complex dimension to Bond’s character.

From Revenge to Redemption

The narrative follows Bond as he resigns from MI6 to settle a personal vendetta against drug lord Franz Sanchez, played menacingly by Robert Davi. After a brutal assault on his friend Felix Leiter—a CIA agent—and the tragic murder of Leiter’s wife, Bond plunges into a world marred by crime and betrayal. This intimate story arc marks a significant departure from many conventional Bond films, rooted in a more personal stakes narrative.

In an industry ripe with superhero fantasies and action-driven narratives, the film also stands out as the first Bond movie not based on an Ian Fleming title. While the plot weaves original concepts, it pulls inspiration from traditional Fleming themes, echoing stories like Live and Let Die and the short tale The Hildebrand Rarity. Elements reminiscent of Akira Kurosawa’s Yojimbo add depth to an otherwise standalone vision.

At the box office, Licence to Kill garnered an impressive $156.2 million—a respectable figure considering its $32 million budget. However, it was overshadowed in the larger narrative of the franchise by its successor, GoldenEye, which ushered in Pierce Brosnan as the new face of Bond.

Licence to Kill continues to elicit polarized opinions. While one audience member praised its darker tone and gripping plot, another found it forgettable—claims the critics echoes in a consensus remarking on its intensity amidst solid action sequences. Dalton’s performance undoubtedly resonates with those who favor a more serious and human portrayal of 007, especially in contrast to Roger Moore’s lighter, often silly take on the character.

Reflecting on the magnitude of stepping into the shoes of a cultural icon, Dalton remarked, “The danger of taking on something like Bond was immense… I wanted to see if I could overcome that challenge.” This courageous spirit is felt throughout Licence to Kill, securing its place in the ever-evolving legacy of James Bond films.

Licence to Kill is available to rent on Amazon Prime Video.