The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) – Bond at His Best

The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) – Bond at His Best

The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) is often hailed as one of the finest entries in the James Bond franchise — a high-octane blend of espionage, exotic locations, cutting-edge gadgets, and unforgettable characters. Directed by Lewis Gilbert, and starring Roger Moore in his third outing as the legendary British spy, the film marked a triumphant return to form for the series after a period of uneven reception.

The story kicks off with a global crisis: British and Soviet submarines are mysteriously disappearing. As tensions rise between the two Cold War superpowers, MI6 dispatches Bond to uncover the truth. But he’s not the only one on the case — Soviet agent Anya Amasova, also known as Agent Triple X (played by Barbara Bach), is tasked with solving the same mystery. The two spies must set aside their national loyalties and team up to stop a mutual enemy: Karl Stromberg, a wealthy, megalomaniacal villain who dreams of creating an underwater utopia by triggering nuclear war on the surface.

What follows is a dazzling, globe-spanning adventure that takes Bond and Amasova from Cairo’s deserts to Sardinia’s coast, and finally into the depths of Stromberg’s sea fortress, Atlantis. The dynamic between Bond and Amasova is electric — equal parts tension, attraction, and professional rivalry. Unlike many Bond girls before her, Amasova is his match in intellect and skill, giving the film a more balanced and modern energy.

The film introduces one of the franchise’s most iconic henchmen: Jaws, a towering assassin with steel teeth and superhuman strength. Played by Richard Kiel, Jaws would go on to become a fan favorite, and his silent, menacing presence adds weight to every scene he’s in.

Technically, The Spy Who Loved Me was a triumph. From the incredible set design of Stromberg’s lair (built on the famed 007 Stage at Pinewood Studios) to the unforgettable stunt work — including the famous ski jump opening — the film pushed the limits of what a Bond movie could achieve. The soundtrack, featuring Carly Simon’s Oscar-nominated “Nobody Does It Better,” remains one of the most beloved Bond themes of all time.

More than four decades later, The Spy Who Loved Me is still celebrated for its bold scale, stylish flair, and confident storytelling. It’s everything fans love about James Bond — and more.