The Living Daylights (1987) Review

 Title: The Living Daylights
Year: 1987
Director: John Glen
Country: UK
Language: English

A View to a Kill (1985) did pretty good in the theatres, but it had become pretty obvious that Roger Moore had become too old for the role. The Producers decided to hire Pierce Brosnan as 007, but the TV Series Remington Steele decided to renew his contract for another season, and thus Brosnan wouldn't be available until Goldeneye (1995). For now the part of Bond would go to Shakesperean actor Timothy Dalton. 

James Bond (Timothy Dalton) is sent to investigate a KGB policy to kill all enemy spies, and uncovers an arms deal that potentially has major global ramifications.

Dalton's approach to Bond was similar to Daniel Craig. In The Living Daylights Bond is darker, more brooding and more serious than Connery & Moore. He is less focused on babes and booze; preferring to a "get the job done at whatever the cost" assassin. He gives an emotionally gripping performance that compliments the engaging plot & stunning cinematography. 

This Bond film is very topical for the time. By the late 80's the West's "War on Drugs" was in full swing. This was the time of "Just Say No." and D.A.R.E. The film also touches on the Russian War with Afghanistan and, interestingly enough, has Bond team up with a group that would later become the Taliban!

Dalton's Bond doesn't jump into bed with the ladies like previous Bonds', which I suppose reflects the AIDS crisis of the 80's. It's a fascinating time capsule film that proves to be pretty entertaining.