On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is the sixth film in the James Bond franchise and the only one starring George Lazenby as 007. Often considered a cult favorite among Bond enthusiasts, it stands out for its emotional depth, thrilling action, and a tragic ending that still shocks first-time viewers.
Detailed Summary
Bond’s New Face and First Encounter with Tracy
The film opens with Bond rescuing a mysterious woman from an attempted suicide on a beach in Portugal. This woman is Contessa Teresa “Tracy” di Vicenzo (Diana Rigg). After a brief confrontation with thugs, Bond delivers one of cinema’s most famous self-aware lines: “This never happened to the other fellow.” This meta nod acknowledges Sean Connery’s departure and the introduction of George Lazenby.
Bond Meets Draco
Bond learns that Tracy is the daughter of Marc-Ange Draco (Gabriele Ferzetti), head of a powerful European crime syndicate. Draco offers Bond valuable information on Blofeld if Bond marries his daughter. Initially reluctant, Bond begins a romantic relationship with Tracy, discovering her strength, wit, and vulnerability.
Tracking Blofeld to Switzerland
Bond’s mission leads him to Switzerland, where Blofeld (Telly Savalas) is posing as a Count and running an allergy clinic atop Piz Gloria, an alpine fortress. Bond infiltrates the facility, only to realize Blofeld’s true plan: using hypnotized women from around the world to spread a biological weapon that could destroy global agriculture.
Bond Captured and Escapes
Bond’s cover is blown, leading to a tense ski chase down the Alps. He escapes Blofeld’s men through sheer luck and skill, finding temporary refuge with Tracy. The pair rekindle their romance in the snow-covered wilderness, strengthening their bond.
Assault on Piz Gloria
Bond teams up with Draco’s men to launch a daring helicopter assault on Piz Gloria. The battle is explosive, culminating in Bond pursuing Blofeld down a bobsled run. Although Blofeld is injured, he manages to escape alive.
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Movie Ending
The film ends on a surprisingly intimate note for a Bond movie. Bond and Tracy marry in a small, heartfelt ceremony. Bond is genuinely happy, shedding his usual playboy persona for a life of commitment. They drive off in his Aston Martin, decorated with flowers and ribbons.
While pulled over to remove the decorations, a car speeds past—inside are Blofeld and his henchwoman Irma Bunt. They open fire on the Aston Martin. Bond survives unscathed, but Tracy is killed instantly by a bullet to the head. The movie closes with Bond cradling her in his arms, whispering: “We have all the time in the world.” The camera fades to the sight of the bullet-riddled car, ending the film on a devastating and uncharacteristically tragic note for the series.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No. The movie ends with Tracy’s death and Bond’s grief, and the credits roll without any extra scenes or teasers.
Type of Movie
This is a spy thriller and romantic action drama, blending the high-octane set pieces expected from a Bond film with a surprisingly emotional core.
Cast
- George Lazenby – James Bond 007
- Diana Rigg – Tracy di Vicenzo
- Telly Savalas – Ernst Stavro Blofeld
- Gabriele Ferzetti – Marc-Ange Draco
- Ilse Steppat – Irma Bunt
- Bernard Lee – M
- Lois Maxwell – Miss Moneypenny
- Desmond Llewelyn – Q
Film Music and Composer
Composed by John Barry, the score is considered one of the best in the Bond franchise. The film features the instrumental main theme “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service” and Louis Armstrong’s bittersweet ballad “We Have All the Time in the World”, which became an iconic part of Bond history.
Filming Locations
The film was shot extensively in Switzerland (Piz Gloria on the Schilthorn mountain, Lauterbrunnen Valley), Portugal (Estoril, Guincho Beach, Lisbon), and England (Pinewood Studios). Piz Gloria’s real-life revolving restaurant became one of the most recognizable Bond locations, attracting tourists even decades later.
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Awards and Nominations
While not a major awards contender at the time, the film has been retrospectively praised and ranked highly by critics in modern Bond rankings. It has been recognized in several “best Bond theme” lists for its soundtrack.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- George Lazenby was a model with no major acting experience before landing the role.
- Diana Rigg and Lazenby reportedly had a frosty working relationship, though their on-screen chemistry remained strong.
- The producers initially wanted Sean Connery back but he refused.
- Filming on the Schilthorn required the crew to operate in extreme cold and high altitudes.
- Louis Armstrong recorded “We Have All the Time in the World” while gravely ill; it was one of his last recordings.
Inspirations and References
The film closely adapts Ian Fleming’s 1963 novel of the same name, keeping its darker tone and tragic ending intact, unlike other Bond adaptations that often diverged from the books.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
Early drafts considered ending with Bond vowing revenge on Blofeld immediately after Tracy’s death, but the producers opted for the somber fade-out to emphasize the tragedy. Some ski chase footage was trimmed for pacing.
Book Adaptations and Differences
The movie remains one of the most faithful Fleming adaptations. The biggest difference is that the novel is more introspective, delving deeper into Bond’s thoughts and emotions, while the movie keeps a brisker action pace.
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Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Bond’s first fight and introduction of Lazenby as 007.
- The romantic montage of Bond and Tracy set to “We Have All the Time in the World.”
- The night escape from Piz Gloria through the snowy Alps.
- The wedding scene followed by the shocking final attack.
Iconic Quotes
- Bond: “This never happened to the other fellow.”
- Bond: “We have all the time in the world.”
- Blofeld: “Merry Christmas, 007.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Bond’s office scene features souvenirs from previous films, a nod to Connery’s era.
- The film subtly connects to You Only Live Twice with references to Blofeld’s earlier plans.
- The Union Jack flag on Bond’s bobsled hints at British patriotism woven into the action.
Trivia
- Piz Gloria was unfinished when filming began; the producers helped finance its completion.
- Lazenby was offered a seven-film contract but turned it down, believing Bond was outdated in the 1970s.
- Diana Rigg had previously starred in The Avengers TV series, which boosted her international fame.
Why Watch?
Because it’s the most emotionally resonant Bond film—equal parts thrilling spy adventure and tragic love story. The alpine action sequences are breathtaking, the music is unforgettable, and the ending is unlike anything else in the series.
Director’s Other Movies
- Battle of Britain (1969) – as editor before directing OHMSS
- Peter R. Hunt primarily worked as an editor and second-unit director on earlier Bond films, including Goldfinger and Thunderball.