10 Times James Bond Movie Franchise Went Too Far

3. The Worst Bond Girl - The World Is Not Enough

Bond Spectre
MGM

Because Denise Richards was regarded as one of the most beautiful actresses of the 1990s, it was no surprise that she was cast as a Bond girl.

However, it was very much a surprise to learn Richards character in The World Is Not Enough was a nuclear physicist called Christmas Jones. First off, "Christmas Jones" has got to be the worst name in the entire franchise. It feels like Richards' character only received this moniker so Bond could say the groan-worthy line, "I thought Christmas only came once a year."

Secondly, having a nuclear physicist portrayed by a model sounds like the type of casting that Austin Powers would do. Now, this isn't suggesting that an attractive person can't play an intelligent character, but it's hard to take Richards seriously as she parades around in hot pants and a revealing tank-top.

However, this choice of wardrobe and casting could be forgiven if Richards made Jones a compelling character. Sadly, Richards is so convincing, you can tell she has no idea what she's talking about when she starts speaking in scientific jargon. By comparison, legendary Bond girl, Ursula Andress, was dubbed in Dr. No and yet, her performance was more believable.

Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows