These 5 James Bond Films Were Critically Ignored—But They Might Be the Franchise’s Best Kept Secrets

If you’re a James Bond fan—or even if you’re just curious about diving into the iconic 007 series—there’s no better time than now. Starting June 1, MGM+ will offer the entire collection of 25 EON-produced James Bond films, giving fans easy access to the franchise’s rich history of espionage, gadgets, and shaken-not-stirred martinis. While the obvious classics like Goldfinger and Casino Royale are widely praised, there are plenty of hidden gems that don’t always get the recognition they deserve. If you’re ready to explore a few underrated Bond films, here are five must-watch entries to kick off your 007 marathon.

1. Diamonds Are Forever (1971)

In Diamonds Are Forever, Sean Connery returned to the role of James Bond after a hiatus, marking his second time in the role after George Lazenby’s brief turn as 007 in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969). Set in the vibrant and glittering Las Vegas, this entry stands apart from the usual globetrotting Bond adventures. Though it’s often overshadowed by its more glamorous and action-packed counterparts, Diamonds Are Forever provides a unique charm. Connery’s portrayal of a more world-weary Bond offers depth, with the actor’s seasoned performance lending the film a sense of gravity. The movie doesn’t feel as grand as some of the more iconic Bond films, but its quieter moments and the personal transformation of Bond itself make it a fascinating chapter in the series that deserves more attention.

2. Thunderball (1965)

You may think you’ve seen all there is to the world of Bond films, but Thunderball will likely surprise you. The fourth installment of the series, it’s often overshadowed by Goldfinger (1964), which is one of the most iconic Bond films ever. However, Thunderball is an underappreciated entry that raised the stakes for the series. With a significant portion of the film shot underwater, it features stunning visuals and ambitious action sequences that were a technical feat for the time. The underwater battles might seem over-the-top today, but they add an undeniably adventurous and larger-than-life feel to the film. Thunderball remains quintessentially 1960s Bond, embracing a sense of kooky ambition that’s hard to match.

3. Licence to Kill (1989)

Timothy Dalton’s Licence to Kill is arguably one of the grittiest and most intense entries in the entire Bond franchise. The film marks a drastic shift from the often playful and witty Roger Moore-era Bond, offering a darker, more serious take on the character. In this film, Bond goes rogue after being suspended from MI6, taking on a personal vendetta against a drug lord who targets his close friend. The movie’s raw intensity and more emotional portrayal of Bond set it apart from other films in the series, showing a more vulnerable and anger-driven 007. Licence to Kill offers a refreshing break from the standard Bond formula and deserves much more credit for its daring approach to the character, making it one of the best Bond films you may have missed.

4. From Russia With Love (1963)

As the second film in the series, From Russia With Love often gets overshadowed by the later, more extravagant Bond films. But this entry provides a deep, spy-thriller experience that’s hard to match. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the film doesn’t rely on high-tech gadgets or bombastic action but instead brings a grounded, gritty realism to the genre. While it may not be as bombastic as Goldfinger or Thunderball, From Russia With Love delivers a layered, complex plot that is more subtle and thrilling in its own way. This film is an excellent reminder that the early Bond films were as much about espionage and psychological tension as they were about glamorous stunts.

5. GoldenEye (1995)

Though GoldenEye is often considered a fan-favorite, it doesn’t always get the level of recognition it deserves when compared to some of the more recent Bond films. Pierce Brosnan’s first outing as 007 marked a moment of reinvention for the character, blending the old-school Bond charm with a modern, post-Cold War sensibility. The film’s personal stakes—trust, betrayal, and the shadows of the past—help elevate it beyond a typical Bond action flick. Sean Bean’s portrayal of Alec Trevelyan adds emotional depth and makes for one of the series’ most memorable villains. GoldenEye struck the perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation, offering a fresh take on Bond while maintaining the core of what made the character iconic.

Conclusion: The Bond Films You Might Have Missed

As MGM+ prepares to stream all 25 James Bond films starting June 1st, fans old and new will have the chance to dive deep into the full franchise. While the obvious classics like Goldfinger and Casino Royale will likely take center stage, it’s these five underrated Bond films that deserve more recognition. Whether it’s Connery’s somber return in Diamonds Are Forever, Dalton’s gritty turn in Licence to Kill, or Brosnan’s masterful blend of old and new in GoldenEye, these films provide something more than the typical Bond formula—offering intriguing stories, emotional depth, and a sense of adventure that may just surprise you. So, grab your martini (shaken, not stirred) and get ready to explore the hidden gems of 007’s legendary legacy.