Becoming Bond 2017
Directed by
Josh Greenbaum
Made by
Hulu
Plot Summary
The story unfolds through a deeply personal dialogue with George Lazenby, interwoven with vivid reenactments that breathe life into his words. In sharing the tale of his early struggles as an at-risk infant, Lazenby reflects on how failing as the only student in his school grade and walking across the graduation stage without a certificate shaped his resilience and determination to never again accept defeat.
In an unexpected twist, Lazenby left behind his life as a car mechanic to venture into the world of car sales. Struggling to secure even a single sale initially, he soon became captivated by the glamorous lifestyle of his successful colleagues, persuading the dealership’s manager to give him another chance. After another setback in selling cars, he enrolled in a workshop titled “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” The most memorable takeaway from this experience was a crucial lesson he learned: > “Listen first and let the other person do the talking.” This insight became pivotal in his evolution into a successful salesman, helping him gain the trust of embassy staff and leading to a fateful connection with the granddaughter of an Australian politician. When she decided to move to London, Lazenby, driven by hope and desire, followed her as an economic steerage passenger.
However, upon reaching London, he faced the harsh realization that she had moved on, pursuing a charismatic player on the Oxford University cricket team. Dejected and fearing failure once again, Lazenby’s attempts to win her heart ultimately set him on an unexpected path that would shape his destiny as he made his iconic mark as James Bond—a character celebrated for his ability to charm and win over the woman he loves.
The release of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service in 1969 saw Lazenby stepping into the role of the sophisticated spy, a performance that garnered praise, broke box office records, and launched him into the upper echelons of Hollywood stardom. Yet, despite the fame and fortune that accompanied becoming James Bond, Lazenby felt a profound loss of self, prompting him to walk away from the role after just one film. He chose to return to a more ordinary life in Australia, where he eventually found success as a realtor, got married, raised a family, and embraced a fulfilling, unpretentious lifestyle far from the allure of cinema.
As he reflects on his remarkable journey, the mist of nostalgia dissipates, revealing a sense of peace as George Lazenby considers the arcs of his life before and after his unforgettable role as James Bond. This newfound tranquility highlights the lasting significance of his performances, which, with time, have only grown in appreciation and respect. In recent years, Lazenby’s portrayal of the legendary spy has been celebrated anew, elevating On Her Majesty’s Secret Service to a cherished position within the Bond franchise—recognized by many as the pinnacle of the series. This enduring legacy underscores the timeless magnetism of Ian Fleming’s creation alongside the exceptional talent of George Lazenby.
Timeline
George Lazenby's Early Struggles
George Lazenby begins his story by sharing his early struggles as an at-risk infant. He reflects on failing as the only student in his school grade and walking across the graduation stage without a certificate, experiences that significantly shaped his resilience and determination.
Transition to Car Sales
In a bold move, Lazenby leaves his steady job as a car mechanic to plunge into the car sales industry. Initially facing difficulties and unable to secure even a single sale, he becomes drawn to the glitzy lifestyle of his successful colleagues, igniting his ambition.
Seeking a Second Chance
After struggling with his sales performance, Lazenby persuades the dealership's manager to give him another chance at selling cars. This determination to succeed demonstrates his resilient character and desire to overcome past failures.
Revelation at a Workshop
Lazenby enrolls in a pivotal workshop titled 'How to Win Friends and Influence People.' There, he learns the essential lesson of listening first and allowing the other person to talk, a revelation that significantly changes his approach and ultimately aids in his career.
Building Trust and Making Connections
With his newfound insight into human interaction, Lazenby gains the trust of embassy staff. This crucial connection leads him to meet the granddaughter of an Australian politician, showcasing the power of effective communication.
Journey to London
Motivated by hope and desire, Lazenby follows the politician's granddaughter to London as an economic steerage passenger. This journey reflects his determination to pursue love and new opportunities, despite the risks involved.
Facing Disappointment in London
Upon arriving in London, Lazenby is heartbroken to learn that the woman he followed has moved on to a new relationship with a charismatic cricket player. This disappointment reignites his fears of failure but also sets him on an unanticipated path.
Becoming James Bond
In 1969, Lazenby breaks into Hollywood as he steps into the iconic role of James Bond in *On Her Majesty's Secret Service*. His performance is met with critical acclaim, and he quickly rises to fame and success in the film industry.
Fame and Loss of Self
Despite achieving significant fame and fortune from his role as Bond, Lazenby grapples with a deep sense of losing his identity. This conflict leads him to make the surprising decision to step away from the role after just one film.
Return to Ordinary Life
Choosing a simpler life, Lazenby returns to Australia, where he finds new success as a realtor. He embraces an unpretentious lifestyle, marrying and raising a family away from the Hollywood spotlight.
Reflection on His Journey
As he reflects on his remarkable journey, Lazenby experiences a sense of peace regarding his life before and after playing Bond. The nostalgia of his past accomplishments blends with the tranquility of his present life.
Reevaluation of His Bond Performance
In recent years, Lazenby receives renewed appreciation for his portrayal of James Bond. *On Her Majesty's Secret Service* is now celebrated within the Bond franchise, recognized by many as one of the series' high points.
Legacy in the Bond Franchise
The lasting significance of Lazenby's performance reveals itself through its growing respect and recognition. His unique interpretation of Bond reinforces Ian Fleming's creation and highlights Lazenby's exceptional talent.
Characters
George Lazenby
George Lazenby is a resilient and determined individual, whose journey from a troubled childhood to Hollywood stardom underscores his tenacity. Initially faced with numerous failures, he learns valuable life lessons that guide him toward success, embodying the spirit of transformation and self-discovery.
Setting
Time period
1960s
The 1960s was a transformative decade marked by cultural revolutions and significant societal changes. This period saw the rise of counterculture, the expansion of the film industry, and the evolution of iconic characters like James Bond, reflecting a blend of sophistication and adventure that captivated audiences.
Location
Australia, London
Australia, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history, serves as George Lazenby's home where he returns to a more ordinary life after his time as James Bond. London, a city renowned for its historic landmarks and vibrant arts scene, represents the ambitious pursuit of his dreams and connection to the glamorous life he once sought.
Themes
💪
Resilience
Resilience is a central theme in George Lazenby's journey, illustrating how he overcame early failures and challenges to achieve success. His story emphasizes the importance of perseverance in the face of setbacks, showcasing how determination played a crucial role in his transformation from a struggling salesman to a celebrated actor.
❤️
Love and Sacrifice
The theme of love and sacrifice reveals Lazenby's personal journey, where his pursuit of love propels him to follow his heart across continents. This emotional drive ultimately shapes his destiny, forcing him to confront the sacrifices he must make in both love and career.
🎭
Identity
The theme of identity explores Lazenby's struggle to find himself amidst the fame and expectations of becoming James Bond. His reflections reveal a deep conflict between his public persona and personal desires, ultimately leading to a choice to embrace a life of authenticity.
Featured on this page
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2024 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.