GoldenEye (1995) DVD Review – UK

A rogue Russian general steals the EMP weapon "GoldenEye" in an attempt to electronically steal money from the Bank of England before destroying all electronic evidence of the crime.

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A rogue Russian general steals the EMP weapon "GoldenEye" in an attempt to electronically steal money from the Bank of England before destroying all electronic evidence of the crime.

Runtime

2 Hours 5 Minutes

BBFC rating

Region

Region 2

Sound

Dolby Digital 5.1

Aspect

2.35:1

Release year

1995

Edition Comparison

Details

With a new 'M' in charge the blank cheque for Bond's reckless behaviour is no longer guaranteed, and he finds himself battling the bureaucrats as much as the enemies of old. When a newly designed helicopter, capable of surviving the electromagnetic pulse of a nuclear explosion, is stolen during a demonstration the British authorities initially decide not to pursue the matter too closely.

However, when a mysterious electromagnetic blast wipes out a large area of electrical activity at a Russian facility, British intelligence realises that the Russians' most top secret satellite weapon, GoldenEye, was not a myth after all. When the stolen helicopter is detected in the same region suspicions grow and Bond is dispatched to investigate.

Bond soon uncovers a plot by a Russian crime syndicate to detonate another GoldenEye weapon over London. Their plan is simple: electronically steal billions from the Bank of England and then fire the satellite weapon to wipe out all computer records of the transaction. But with the mastermind behind the plan revealed to be a former ally, Bond must rely on all of his instincts and experience to stop the conspiracy before it is too late.

Picture & Sound

The picture is bright and colourful with rich colour tones and textures. Although the bit-rate is average the transfer holds up well during the film's frantic action sequences. There are no obvious signs of artifacting or outlining, although some darker indoor scenes reveal slight pixelisation due to the lower bit-rate.

The sound is absolutely superb. Dialogue remains crystal clear in the centre channel while the surround channels are used extensively throughout the action scenes. Explosions, gunfire and environmental effects make excellent use of the rear speakers and the LFE channel. Eric Serra's distinctive score, together with the updated Bond theme for the 1990s, creates a surprisingly memorable and energetic soundtrack.

Menu & Extras

The extras on the original version are somewhat disappointing. The commentary track is good, but there is a menu option for the theme music video (not listed on the DVD cover) which doesn't appear to function correctly. However, finding the original Region 2 version today would be difficult, and since the special edition is far superior there is little reason to seek it out.

The extras on the special edition are much more impressive and match the standard set by the Bond DVD series. With the public's appetite for behind-the-scenes information growing, the studios have included a generous collection of documentaries and featurettes. One such featurette is presented by Elizabeth Hurley, although it must be said her increasingly tight-fitting outfits are rather distracting! Together with twelve television adverts and the music video for the superb theme song by Tina Turner, this edition represents excellent value for money.

Overall

In the six years since the release of Licence to Kill the world had changed dramatically. The Cold War had ended, the Berlin Wall had fallen and many wondered whether there was still a place for James Bond in the modern world. GoldenEye answered that question with a confident yes, updating the character while still retaining the classic elements that audiences expected.

This shift is best represented by the introduction of a female M, played superbly by Dame Judi Dench. Her version of the character is far tougher and far less tolerant of Bond's old-fashioned attitudes. While the filmmakers' attempt to modernise the character occasionally borders on being a little heavy-handed, it does help reposition Bond for a new era.

GoldenEye also marks Pierce Brosnan's first appearance as James Bond, a role he fills with considerable style. Brosnan manages to blend the charm of Roger Moore, the toughness of Sean Connery and the intensity of Timothy Dalton into a convincing and entertaining interpretation of the character. Arguably, he is one of the best Bonds to date.

The film contains all the classic Bond ingredients - martinis, villains, gadgets and spectacular action sequences. The opening scene, featuring a breathtaking bungee jump from the top of a dam, remains one of the most memorable introductions in the entire series. The stunts are extravagant, the action is fast-paced and the Bond girls are stronger and more independent than many of their predecessors.

GoldenEye remains one of the most enjoyable Bond films and successfully relaunched the franchise for a new generation. It is exciting, entertaining and still great fun to watch today. Long may the adventure continue into the 21st century.