20 Things You Didn't Know About The Man With The Golden Gun (1974)

18. An Ode To From Russia With Love

The filmmakers were inspired by From Russia With Love (1963) in introducing the world’s most successful and notorious hitman, Francisco Scaramanga in the film's pre-credits sequence. The contract killer lives luxuriously on his remote island in the Far East, where his valet, Nick Nack (Hervé Villechaize) hires opponents to challenge him and hone his skills.

Director, Guy Hamilton cast Marc Lawrence as gun-for-hire, Rodney, even though he was recognisable from his similar role in Diamonds Are Forever (1971), because he wanted to juxtapose the seedy underworld of Chicago with the sweeping and exotic beauty of Phang Nga Bay in Thailand.

Hamilton created a memorable pre-titles sequence by combining the island paradise with the production designer, Peter Murton’s stunning and unnerving sets at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire. He also used the sequence to set up the thrilling climax to the film.

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I started writing for WhatCulture in July 2020. I have always enjoyed reading and writing. I have contributed to several short story competitions and I have occasionally been fortunate enough to have my work published. During the COVID-19 lockdown, I also started reviewing films on my Facebook page. Numerous friends and contacts suggested that I should start my own website for reviewing films, but I wanted something a bit more diverse - and so here I am! My interests focus on film and television mainly, but I also occasionally produce articles that venture into other areas as well. In particular, I am a fan of the under appreciated sequel (of which there are many), but I also like the classics and the mainstream too.