007: Goldfinger

Originally published on social media on January 14th, 2022

What is there not to love about Goldfinger? It is the classic of classics, displays all the best Bondisms and cliches, but above all else… Goldfinger has the best theme song (tied with the theme from Thunderball).

Luckily my opinions are backed up by the millions of fans of this film who call it the best. Yet, there were a few of my peers who disagreed. Why?

The treatment of Pussy Galore. This argument entirely revolves around personal beliefs and how people interpret the character and interests of Pussy Galore. If you have read the book, you would know that Pussy Galore was a lesbian (or bisexual depending on your interpretation). She has also been called a feminist. I think this film purposely tries to make these aspects undetectable for political and social reasons of that era. Pussy Galore AND/OR how she is treated is one of the reasons some people do not approve of the Bond franchise. As mentioned in my other reviews, the Sean Connery Bonds were made in a previous era with different values than we hold today and must not be judged by 2022 values. I genuinely believe this film can continue to be enjoyed regardless of how people feel about the Pussy Galore portion because there are so many other noncontroversial aspects that are truly enjoyable.

This Bond film finds the divine balance with action scenes, making them long enough to be enticing but short enough not to be monotonous. Also, the one liners are in their prime, there is a hint of suspense, the set design and color scheme are delightfully nostalgic, Goldfinger himself is hilariously petty, and SEAN CONNERY is charming and clever as always. On a personal note, I must say that we reference the ejector seat in Bond's car a lot at home when someone is being an annoying front seat driver