007 is now assigned a mission to investigate the deaths of three MI6 agents who were investigating Dr Kananga, the Prime Minister of the Caribbean island of San Monique, played by Yaphet Kotto. Bond's mission takes him between New York, San Monique and New Orleans, as he soon uncovers a connection between Kananga and Harlem crime boss "Mr Big" in the form of a large heroin-smuggling operation with strong links to the occult and Voodoo. This includes the legendary Voodoo figure Baron Samedi, and the clairvoyant girl of the week Solitaire, played by Jane Seymour.
The film seems to be paying tribute to the growth of the 'blaxploitation' films of the 1970s. For those who don't know, these were independent films with predominately African-American casts, often with funding from Civil Rights groups. But when Roger Moore is added to the picture, you could say the film has some unfortunate implications when presented to a modern audience. But I'm not going to talk about that.
It may seem odd the occult has a major part in a James Bond film, but they used it enough that I don't have an issue with it. What I do have an issue with is Solitaire. She is used by Kananga to anticipate Bond's every move, but loses her clairvoyance when Bond sleeps with her - after seducing her with a stacked Tarot deck - essentially coercing her into helping him. Once that's done, she more or less becomes your typical damsel. Also present is a bumbling redneck sheriff who tries to pursue Bond in Louisiana, serving little purpose except comic relief.
On the other hand, I do enjoy some of the villains they created. Baron Samedi has an almost mystical reputation on San Monique, with a suitably sinister laugh and deep voice that will make you want a 7-Up. Also facing Bond is 'Tee Hee', an enforcer with a mechanical arm.
Set pieces include an escape from the San Monique police in a double decker bus, a boat chase through the Louisiana bayous, crocodile jumping, and agents who are killed watching their own funeral with a very upbeat send-off. I also really enjoy Paul McCartney's theme song he wrote for it.
Overall, I like this one. It's probably not the best Bond film around, but I think Moore did a pretty good job with this one. I look forward to seeing him again.
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