Deep Dive: Becoming Bond (2017)
Film Lens
Becoming Bond is a docudrama that recounts the life of George Lazenby, focusing on his casting as James Bond in On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The film combines re-enacted dramatizations with actual interview footage of Lazenby, allowing viewers to hear his personal narrative while seeing actors portray key moments from his life. Lazenby discusses his early struggles, including his experience as an at-risk infant and his feelings of failure during school, which shaped his determination to succeed.
The film also covers Lazenby's transition from a car mechanic to a successful car salesman, leading to his eventual casting as Bond. After the release of On Her Majesty's Secret Service in December 1969, which received acclaim and box-office success, Lazenby chose to leave the role, impacting his career trajectory. The documentary concludes with Lazenby reflecting on his life post-Bond, where he found contentment in a quieter life in Australia as a realtor and family man.
Why Watch
- •Meet George Lazenby, the only Australian James Bond.
- •See how Lazenby's early failures shaped his career.
- •Find out why he walked away from Bond fame.
Did You Know
•George Lazenby was born an at-risk infant.
•On Her Majesty's Secret Service was released in December 1969.
•Becoming Bond premiered on Hulu on May 20, 2017.
•The film has a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 18 reviews.
Perfect For
James Bond fansAustralian cinema enthusiastsFilm history buffs