As the entire James Bond film library arrives on Netflix in the US and parts of Europe, the perennial debate over the best and worst 007 outings has been reignited. For UK audiences, the films are available to stream on Prime Video. This development coincides with fresh, unconfirmed reports that actor Callum Turner may be the next to don the famous tuxedo, succeeding Daniel Craig after a four-and-a-half-year hiatus since No Time to Die.
The Ultimate 007 Ranking: Methodology and Mayhem
Ranking 25 films spanning six decades and seven actors is a surefire way to spark controversy. We have pitted every entry head-to-head, comparing each era against itself. The general pattern? A new Bond often starts strong before the formula gradually curdles into self-parody, prompting the search for a fresh face. From Sean Connery's gritty debut to Roger Moore's campy escapades and Daniel Craig's gritty reboot, each phase has defining strengths and weaknesses.
From Bottom to Top: The Complete Countdown
We begin at the very bottom of the barrel. In last place sits 2002's 'Die Another Day', a film notorious for its invisible car, dubious CGI, and Madonna's cameo. Just above it is 2015's 'Spectre', criticised for wasting a promising start and mishandling the iconic villain Blofeld.
Roger Moore's space-bound 'Moonraker' (1979) and Pierce Brosnan's 'Tomorrow Never Dies' (1997) also languish in the lower ranks, deemed too silly and soulless respectively. The list acknowledges missteps like the embarrassing tone of 'The Man with the Golden Gun' (1974) and the misfiring 'The World is Not Enough' (1999).
As we climb, opinions become more divisive. 'Licence to Kill' (1989) marked a dark turn for Timothy Dalton, while 'Skyfall' (2012), despite its visual brilliance and Javier Bardem's villain, is penalised for plot holes. The beloved 'GoldenEye' (1995) is called "reliably overrated," with praise reserved mostly for Famke Janssen.
The Cream of the Espionage Crop
The top ten represents the pinnacle of Bond. 'For Your Eyes Only' (1981) is hailed for its post-Cold War realism, while the seminal 'Dr No' (1962) is respected as a solid, if cautious, foundation. 'Casino Royale' (2006) brilliantly rebooted the franchise, despite a controversial third act.
The final five are the series' elite. 'You Only Live Twice' (1967) boasts Ken Adam's legendary volcano lair. 'No Time to Die' (2021) delivered a tender, action-packed farewell to Daniel Craig. Roger Moore hit his peak with 'The Spy Who Loved Me' (1977), and his debut 'Live and Let Die' (1973) remains his most distinctive film.
In the penultimate spot, the iconic 'Goldfinger' (1964) is celebrated as the archetypal Bond adventure, complete with a perfect villain and witty script. But claiming the number one position is 'From Russia with Love' (1963). This early Connery entry is praised for its gritty performance, suave production, and a masterfully tense train sequence that represents the series at its absolute peak.
The debate will rage on, but one thing is clear: as the search for a new 007 begins, the legendary back catalogue provides a formidable benchmark for any actor daring to step into the role.
