Plot: What’s it about?
In response to the death of a British agent and some interference with NASA missions, MI6 has assigned James Bond (Sean Connery) to Jamaica, to investigate the recent events. Bond is to meet with CIA agent Felix Leiter (Jack Lord), but when he does, suspicion looms and the two end up in a conflict. But cooler heads soon prevail, but even then tensions run high, as both agents are constantly followed and monitored. This makes it impossible to share vital information, since that information would be overheard by those trailing the agents. Bond’s path leads him to an island called Crab Key, but the locals refuse to even visit the locale, which raises his suspicions even more. Can Bond learn the truth about Crab Key’s secrets and if so, can he survive long enough to make sure the truth is revealed?
This is the film that launched one of the most popular and enduring cinema franchises, but does Dr. No still pack the kind of punch we expect from 007? I still regard this as one of the best of the Bond pictures, as it not only has Sean Connery in the lead, but it also strives to deliver immense style and more practical action set pieces. This is still Bond, so there is a stretch here and there, but when compared to other 007 films, Dr. No seems downright realistic. That means the action isn’t as frenetic, but I still think the set pieces here are more than effective. Connery is awesome of course, while Ursella Andress is timeless and the rest of the cast is solid across the board. Dr. No was a terrific first installment in the Bond franchise and it has never looked or sounded better, so this Blu-ray release is well recommended.
Video: How does it look?
Dr. No is presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. This movie looks great, thanks to a crisp and clear image that gives fans a reason to rejoice. This isn’t the best transfer from this time period I’ve seen, but it looks very clean and provides more detail than I anticipated. The subtle detail visible and overall depth are impressive, Dr. No has never looked this great. The colors are warm, but natural in scope and contrast performs well, so no complaints there. In short, this looks terrific and for 007 fans, this new transfer is going to bowl you over.
Audio: How does it sound?
Dr. No is presented in 1.66:1 anamorphic widescreen. This movie looks great, thanks to a crisp and clear image that gives fans a reason to rejoice. This isn’t the best transfer from this time period I’ve seen, but it looks very clean and provides more detail than I anticipated. The subtle detail visible and overall depth are impressive, Dr. No has never looked this great. The colors are warm, but natural in scope and contrast performs well, so no complaints there. In short, this looks terrific and for 007 fans, this new transfer is going to bowl you over.
Supplements: What are the extras?
The audio commentary with director Terence Young and several cast & crew members is like most of the Bond sessions, an edited collection of interviews. This allows for more participants and information, but the speakers aren’t screen specific in their comments, which lessens the experience. Even so, this is an informative session. You can also check out four featurettes on various elements of Dr. No, as well as a vintage 1963 piece on the film’s release. This disc also includes some radio spots, television ads, and the film’s theatrical trailers.
