Three trans hosts dive into the absurdity of media manipulation in a Bond film featuring Pierce Brosnan. They humorously critique the ridiculousness of action sequences and character dynamics, especially the outdated portrayal of female characters. Eccentric villains and chaotic escapes take center stage, showcasing bizarre plot elements. With playful banter, they dissect the film's inadequacies while hilariously analyzing the curious blend of comedy and drama in key confrontations. Expect hilarity as they reflect on Bond's bizarre journey through a whimsical lens.
The podcast humorously critiques the absurdity of 'Tomorrow Never Dies', emphasizing its satirical portrayal of media influence and villainy.
Participants highlight Bond's outdated gender norms and racial stereotypes in his interactions with Wei Lin, pointing to a troubling reflection of social attitudes.
A discussion on Elliot Carver reveals the film's failure to develop a credible antagonist, undermining narrative tension and thematic depth.
Deep dives
Merchandise Announcement and Key Discussions
Merchandise is currently available for pre-order, including a Roger Moore-themed shirt and enamel pins. The podcast starts with a humorous take on a villain and explores the significance of marriage among Bond villains, noting that this is the first married villain introduced in the series. The discussion leads into the plot of 'Tomorrow Never Dies', highlighting the film's satirical take on media and its influence during a time of tension. Participants reflect on the absurdity of scenarios presented in the film, setting a lighthearted tone for the analysis.
Critique of the Opening Sequences
The opening sequences of 'Tomorrow Never Dies' set the tone for the film while presenting a complex mix of action and satire. Bond’s role showcases him as a soldier who faces off against a backdrop of socio-political manipulation at an arms fair. Participants note the awkward geographical references depicted in the movie, particularly the missile launch sequence that seems more illustrative than realistic. These early moments also raise concerns about portrayals of military action, likened to recruitment propaganda for the Royal Navy.
Character Dynamics and Racial Stereotypes
The dynamic between Bond and his new female counterpart, Wei Lin, is juxtaposed against the film's portrayal of villains and overall narrative. While Wei Lin holds her own as a spy, Bond's interactions with her bring forth outdated gender norms and racial stereotypes reflected in dialogue. Participants highlight the comedic yet perplexing aspects of the plot, particularly Bond's absurd antics. The characterizations of both heroes and villains spark further discussions about the stereotypes within the narrative.
The Role of Technology and Music
The film intertwines themes of technology with action sequences and discusses the influence of media within the storyline. The use of technology serves as both a plot device and a commentary on society, with references to computers and surveillance integrated into action scenes. The opening song by Sheryl Crow receives mixed reviews, seen as lacking cohesion with the film's themes compared to previous installments. Participants express dissatisfaction with modern Bond themes, feeling they fall short of the creative vibrancy of classic films.
Ineffectual Villain and Narrative Shortcomings
Elliot Carver, the primary antagonist, exhibits traits that undermine his credibility as a villain, failing to create a genuine sense of threat. His grand plan to instigate war through media manipulation is dissected for its absurdity and lack of realistic depth. The film’s reliance on caricatures rather than fleshed-out characters leads to discussions about missed opportunities in storytelling. Participants reflect on the inconsistency of narrative tension and Carver's lost potential as a compelling villain within the Bond franchise.
Final Reflections and Ratings
Listeners evaluate the film's overall quality, categorizing its thematic execution and character development against previous Bond films. While some comedic moments and action scenes are enjoyed, the film's reliance on outdated tropes and lack of innovation prompt critical evaluations. Ratings are assigned based on key themes like misogyny, cultural sensitivity, unprovoked violence, and smarm. A consensus emerges reflecting disappointment with the film's handling of serious issues, despite a nostalgic affection for the franchise.
This week, Kill James Bond, three trans people from Britain, ponder the eternal question: What if a media tycoon.... was bad?
Join us for an in-depth investigation into Brosnan Bond's newest Technique (Walking up to the villain in a social setting and asking him directly if he's evil), and we encounter a Guy for the ages.
*WEB DESIGN ALERT* Tom Allen is a friend of the show (and the designer behind our website). If you need web design help, reach out to him here: https://www.tomallen.media/
Find us at https://killjamesbond.com and https://twitter.com/killjamesbond
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
