It makes sense that a full-length documentary would be made about the life of James Bond actor George Lazenby. After all, his story is a unique one. He had no acting experience prior to getting the role of 007. He basically conned his way into meeting with film director, Peter Hunt, and from there, his confidence took over. But was he ever all that self assured? Perhaps not.
Josh Greenbaum’s new film, Becoming Bond, now streaming on Hulu, is the rarest of documentaries. Basically told from a single interview, Greenbaum reconstructs Lazenby’s life story, from childhood to his decision to walk away from the Bond role after one film. That film was On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, released in 1969, and for a brief time, it made Lazenby famous–maybe too much so.
Australian actor Josh Lawson plays Lazenby in the film’s re-enactments. He does not portray Lazenby as we would expect: self-assured, deep-voiced. Instead, Lawson has the appearance and manner of a simpleton, a working class hero. It suits the story well. Even in scenes that re-enact his role (or attempt at getting the role) of James Bond, Lawson reminds us that Lazenby was never the suave, sophisticated man portrayed on screen.
"“Living life on your own terms, in your own way, you feel like it’s much fuller.” – George Lazenby"
This distinction is important, because the greater message of the film is the burden that playing Bond can have, especially on a free spirit like Lazenby. At one point, Lazenby recounts how his vocal coach pitied him, because his life was about to change forever. Indeed, actor and character are not the same. This is something Lazenby tells talk show hosts after On Her Majesy’s Secret Service was released. In fact, footage of Lazenby’s interview with David Frost is one of the film’s more precious moments. We see a Bond actor at his most candid.
The film features supporting roles by Kassandra Clementi as Lazenby’s love interest, Belinda, former Bond girl Jane Seymour as Maggie Abbott, and Jeff Garlin as Harry Saltzman. Dana Carvey also stars, reprises his impression of Johnny Carson.
Becoming Bond is worth every Bond fan’s attention. rarely do we get such a peek into a actor’s (or star’s) personal life. In this case, it not only sheds light on the mysteries surrounding Lazenby, but also helps the stature of On Her Majesty’s Secret Service. It now becomes a must see (again).