You Only Live Twice (1967) and Octopussy (1983), the different Bond films!

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Among the factors that make James Bond films unique are a) the cultural journey of an exotic location and b) lifestyle elements. The two films that shine brilliantly on these two parameters are You Only Live Twice and Octopussy. Along with these two factors, these films also sport superb background scores by John Barry.

In You Only Live Twice, Bond showcases various elements of Japan such as a Kimono (and a Ninja outfit) and haircut, along with getting married in Japanese style. Beautiful old-fashioned Japanese architecture is showcased as well.

In Octopussy, there is a lifestyle segment in India where Bond checks into luxurious hotels, visits grand palaces including the Octopussy Island, and of course, engages with the bad guys in a casino. All of these are mixed with local cultural elements. We see a similar cultural journey in The Temple of Doom as well.

Because these films are different by virtue of loading themselves with such factors, they can generate mixed reactions. They also squeeze in some dumb segments, making it even easier to overlook their strong points. For e.g. many can be distracted by Bond's Tarzan yell and clown suit in Octopussy, and Bond disguised as a Japanese in You Only Live Twice.

Rather than be distracted by minor elements, one should seek to go on a journey with Bond in these films. There is a lot to enjoy in these films as they have some of the best Bond moments:

You Only Live Twice: After Blofeld makes his entrance, the film rockets the stratosphere. We see arguably the best villain lair in the history of the Bond franchise where Bond attempts to avert WW3. Aki is such a memorable Bond girl that you feel sad at her demise. The score is romantic.

Octopussy: Besides the lifestyle segment in India, the film is a collection of memorable action sequences. The mini-mission in the PTS is among the best in the franchise. Additionally, we see Bond drive a Merc on rail tracks and hang on to a plane. Besides the action sequences, there is the wonderful use of Fleming material in the "The Property of a Lady" segment. And of course, also the intrigue where Bond stops the cold war from becoming hot. Bond girls are fabulous. The villains work well as a group. The score is a perfect match for the film with many "mysterious and wow" elements - the score when Kamal sails to Octopussy's Island or when Octopussy returns from Berlin to confront Kamal.

Because these films blend a heavy dose of cultural elements and intrigue with other Bond films elements, along with sporting a romantic score, these two should be appreciated as different types of Bond films. These two films provide a unique experience while bringing variety to the Bond franchise.