"The Spy Who Loved Me" (aka Bond 10) is one of the very best Bond movies of the 007 series and the second best for Roger Moore (after 1983's "Octopussy"). After disappointing most critics and fans with his first two 007 outings "Live and Let Die" and "The Man with the Golden Gun", Moore gives probably his strongest 007 performance in this film. This time 007 teams up with a beautiful Russian agent and together go after a shipping magnate intent on world domination. One reason why "The Spy Who Loved Me" works so well is the strong performance by Barbara Bach as Anya Amasova (aka Triple XXX). This is one of the very best of the Bond Girls (or should I say Bond Women), a woman who's smart, sexy, and intelligent. Another reason why this film is so good are the villains, and this Bond film has two memorable ones: Curt Jurgens as Karl Stromberg, the reclusive shipping tycoon; and Richard Kiel as Jaws, the indestructible steel-toothed giant (who would reprise the role in the 007 follow-up "Moonraker"). Plus, "The Spy Who Loved Me" is a very well made movie. It has plenty of action, excitement, humor, exhilarating locations, and a well told story. And for once, Roger Moore doesn't disappoint. I liked Roger Moore as James Bond, though he's not the best 007. However, many people consider "The Spy Who Loved Me" as Moore best Bond film. Well I still say "Octopussy" is his best, but "The Spy Who Loved Me" is right behind it. Excellent film with classy direction by Lewis Gilbert, who also directed two other 007 adventures: 1967's "You Only Live Twice" and 1979's "Moonraker".
***1/2 (out of four)
***1/2 (out of four)