SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 2:34 Min.
From the soundtrack of 1963’s From Russia With Love starring Sean Connery, this James Bond tune was recorded by English singer Matt Monro. Historically, it has the distinction of being the first Bond title song saved for the closing credits rather than the main credits. Monro’s tune has been re-released on some compilation albums, primarily multiple updates of the Best of Bond … James Bond (which includes the franchise’s theme songs to date).
Note: Best of Bond .. James Bond includes a 40th Anniversary edition in 2002 and a subsequent update in 2008 for Chris Cornell’s “You Know My Name” from Casino Royale.
REVIEW:
Within the film’s context, Monro’s “From Russia With Love” works beautifully spelling out Bond’s love affair with Daniela Bianchi’s Tatiana Romanova. Yet, when heard separately, this low-key song (akin to Tom Jones Lite) doesn’t age particularly well. Still, as part of the Best of Bond collections, this nostalgic treat is worth enjoying for its historic value.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars
Note: For a recommended “From Russia With Love” instrumental, try Lifestyles’ 2001 Night at the Movies two-disc set. Its grand orchestral rendition (on Disc 2), which includes a brief homage to the instrumental melody narrating the film’s opening credits, offers a neat experience for Bond aficionados.
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