007 : En Route pour le million

The 007 tie in is really lacking. If not for the show title appearing it really could be any other challenge reality show. Very loose references to the movies but really missed the ball. Par from some interesting locations not enough to keep you invested. Really should have gone all in with stronger Bond locations, challenges that actually physically pushed contestants to mimic the 007 lifestyle, questions that were based off the 007 world, Bond villains to compete/run from to make the timed challenges more exciting. Anything to make it match the show name but all of that is lacking. A shame on a premise that had so much potential that was just completely ruined.

A good reality TV show, but you really need to know your Bond to find the links with the movies. For example, Drax is mentioned in one episode, and the iconic cable cars are shown from Moonraker. Also referenced is Live and Let Die, Octopussy, Dr No, and On Her Majesty's Secret Service. The contestants are interesting and in no way appear shallow or spolit. They're ordinary people trying to make money on a very difficult game show. Brain Cox does a great job at playing the 'villian,' and he keeps the show going. However, the challenges often appear harsh for some, and a little easier for others. I enjoyed this show, but you've got to know your Bond. The contestants don't really know there Bond so as viewers you're almost left to infer the links.