From Russia with Love

SPECTRE wants payback for Dr. No and to embarrass British intelligence. Chess master Kronsteen designs the trap: Rosa Klebb, a former Soviet officer, convinces clerk Tatiana Romanova to fake a defection with the Lektor, a cipher machine. Bond heads to Istanbul, teams up with station chief Kerim Bey and steals the machine from the consulate. The three flee on the Orient Express, shadowed by assassin Red Grant. Kerim Bey is killed, and Grant shows his hand on the train, but Bond kills him in a brutal compartment fight. In Venice, Klebb tries to grab the Lektor disguised as a maid, with a blade in her shoe, and Tatiana shoots her. Bond ends up on a gondola ride with Tatiana. SPECTRE's leader still has no face.

1. SetupThe boss who strokes a cat

   SPECTRE's leader is only seen from behind, stroking a white cat. His face stays hidden; Anthony Dawson plays the body and Eric Pohlmann provides the voice.

   source ↗
2. Behind the scenesThe last film Kennedy saw

   John F. Kennedy named Ian Fleming's novel one of his ten favorite books. The film was the last he watched at the White House, on November 20, 1963, two days before his assassination.

   source ↗
3. CameoDesmond Llewelyn's debut

   Desmond Llewelyn first appears as Major Boothroyd, the equipment officer, handing over the trick briefcase. He'd play the part in 17 films, through 1999.

   source ↗