Monument of a Man?: Bernard Lee's and Robert Brown's M (1962-1989)

Judi Dench’s tenure as M, the filmic James Bond’s chief (1995-2012), has received significant academic attention, but there are far fewer extensive treatments of the first M in the Bond films. Based on Admiral Miles Messervy in Ian Fleming’s source texts, this character appeared in a total of 15 films, portrayed first by Bernard Lee (1962-1979) and then, more briefly, by Robert Brown (1983-1989). My aim in this article is to give a close reading of the first M’s scenes and sequences in the Bond series, from Dr. No to Licence to Kill, analysing his characterisation, narrative function, and evolution. I also touch upon issues such as his (always rather limited) screentime and his role in facilitating three changeovers to new Bond actors (George Lazenby in 1969, Roger Moore in 1973, and Timothy Dalton in 1987). What emerges, I hope, is a more detailed, nuanced, and complete picture of the Eon film series’ first M, and one that slightly challenges some widely accepted generalisations regarding this character.