Never Say Never Again

James Bond surfaces to nip a global crisis in the bud when a notorious arms dealer bankrolls a nuclear threat and steals two atomic warheads. The mission takes him through a maze of perils as he tracks leads, outsmarts traps, and uses quick wits to stay a step ahead of a ruthless network. Along the way, Domino, Largo's glamorous companion, becomes entangled with Bond and plays a pivotal part in the pursuit. With Bond facing off against formidable adversaries, the tale blends stylish intrigue with high tension, fusing gadgetry, audacious stunts, and cunning deception.

Directed by Irvin Kershner, this unofficial Bond entry reimagines Thunderball for the screen with a script by Jack Whittingham, Kevin McClory and Lorenzo Semple Jr. It arrived in 1983 as a rival to the Eon series.

Budgeted at 36 million, it earned roughly 160 million worldwide, signaling solid box office life for a Bond film outside the main Eon series.

Because it was produced outside the Eon umbrella, Never Say Never Again stands as a curious footnote in Bond history. Fans debate its tone and style, and Connery's return under McClory's banner continues to color discussions of rights and legacy.

Critics greeted the film with mixed reactions, noting its slick craftsmanship but uneven pacing compared with contemporaries. The movie touches themes of loyalty and deception, the pull between personal ties and public duty, and the persistent lure of power.