Eye for an Eye

"For Your Eyes Only" was a commercial success after its release in 1983. It was expected, but critics have mixed feelings about it. Roger Moore was a bit too old for the role, they thought. The stunt scenes delighted them, though. And moviegoers wished they could visit some of the locations. They may never figured out the difficulty of underwater filming, making sure that the submerged Greek ruins in the Ionian Sea was breathtaking enough.

Moore starred in adaptations from Ian Fleming's short stories. Some were mash-up of two tales (like the celluloid version of "For Your Eyes Only"), while others were novellas being stretched a bit long. Albert R. Broccoli, who produced most of the 007 films, could count on the fans. Perhaps he didn't have enough faith in Fleming's collection. His eye for details was impressive.

A certain gentleman

"For Your Eyes Only" featured a villain other than an agent from the Soviet Union. Herr von Hammerstein was a former Gestapo officer who escaped prosecution in Germany. He became the chief of counterintelligence for the Cuban secret service.

Eyes were on Cuba during the late 1950s and early 1960s. A revolution forced Fulgencio Batista to flee the island nation. Fidel Castro became the prime minister of the Republic of Cuba. Batista had links with organized crime, and there was apprehension about a possible Soviet invasion of America. Jamaica became an ideal location for agents and rogue characters.

Colonel Havelock and his wife lived on a sprawling estate, which had been a property of the colonel's family for nearly three centuries. Herr von Hammerstein was interested in purchasing it, but he didn't want his identity to be divulged (for obvious reasons). He sent Major Gonzalez in his place. Mrs. Havelock politely told the major that selling was out of the question, as the estate had sentimental value. Herr von Hammerstein don't understand a thing. He had no idea that M was the best man to the couple during their wedding.

Revenge is a dish best served cold

The presence of former Nazi officers in the Caribbean isn't shocking at all. Fleming might have a knowledge of certain names, which he have known during his stint at the Naval Intelligence Division. This was one of the few instances where M would send James Bond on an unofficial mission. Revenge was expected, and it couldn't be more entertaining.

If World War II made another appearance in Fleming's works, then readers must know the reason. (There wouldn't be a Cold War.) The short story opened with a description of the doctor hummingbird, the most beautiful bird in Jamaica. The Havelock couple have been breeding them for many years. Its seven-inch tail, two long black feathers that curve and cross each other, is a sight to behold. But danger lurks behind the exotic features.

Fleming couldn't pick a better opening, alluding to the peril. Readers wouldn't figure it out, and they can't be blamed.