Connery as Bond defined action movies for all time

“BOND. James Bond.” That was the famous introduction that ushered in a new era in cinema for us Malaysian moviegoers in the 1960s.

The iconic Sean Connery, who died on Oct 31 aged 90, uttered those classic words as his second line of dialogue in Dr. No, the premier 007 film. That was followed by 23 Bond movies to date. Con-nery starred in five, six other actors shared the rest.

For the first screening of Dr. No at the erstwhile Rex Cinema in Kuala Lumpur, tickets were sold out weeks ahead. I recall buying tickets in advance at four times the regular price (a handsome 10 dollars each, then) through an “agent”. But it was worth it because the movie experience was just breathtaking!

I may be biased but, in my opinion, none defined an era and a style like Connery did. The inimitable wit, charm and skill he portrayed on screen was simply superb in every sense.

He has and will undoubtedly continue to influence actors and filmmakers for years to come.

It was those Bond movies that inspired, or added intrigue and action, to not only other English movies but also many Bollywood, Chinese and other language action films.

RUEBEN DUDLEY , Petaling Jaya