The World premiere of From Russia With Love took place at multiple locations in London on October 10th 1963. Of the many locations, the Leicester Square Odeon was the prime venue and featured the lions share of the guest stars.

Midday saw the crowds begin to gather outside the Odeon in Leicester Square in anticipation of the stars’ arrival. Actors from the film included both Connery and Daniela Bianchi, not to mention the second time Bond producers Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman who were also in attendance. The Duke and Duchess of Bedford represented the Royale family at the premiere.

From an estimated budget of just US$ 2,000,000 Saltzman and Broccoli managed to create film that not only grossed over US$ 78,900,000 putting it amongst the top earners of the time, but also upon reflection, one of Broccoli’s and Connery favourites in the series.

From Russia With Love opened against How the West was Won and Dr. Strangelove in the US and proved to be a greater success than Dr No.

What The Critics Said...

"Only "Goldfinger" was a better Bond for Connery."
- Rob Thomas, Capital Times

"Connery's best Bond. Never again would he be this assured. This is closer to a classic spy thriller than any other Bond."
- Jeffrey Westhoff, Northwest Herald

"It is neither uplifting, instructive, nor life-enhancing. Neither is it great film-making. But it sure is fun."
- Richard Goud, The Guardian

"Incredible twaddle it may be, but I for one find such twaddle irresistible."
- Cecil Wilson, Daily Mail

"What sort of people are we becoming if we can accept such perversions as a giggle?"
- Nina Hibbin, Daily Worker

"If Odeon cinemas really think the new Bond film is nice clean fun for all the family, then Britain has some pretty kinky families... or soon will have."
- Films and Filming