M - Bernard Lee

He is Bond's crusty superior at MI6. Despite his objections to Bond's lifestyle and womanizing, M holds his top agent in high regard - though rarely praises him. The Bond/M relationship is clearly defined in this film and remains relatively consistent even today, with several actors having played the role. As in the novels, M is a retired admiral in the Royal Navy and operates MI6 from the London HQ of Universal Exports, a corporate cover for the intelligence operation. Although Bond does not fear his exotic enemies, a simple glance of disapproval from M can reduce him to a chastised schoolboy. Bernard Lee plays the role with understated skill, making M a three-dimensional character and stealing every second of his often too brief time on screen. Lee would play the role in every Bond movie up to and including 'Moonraker' (1979).


Other Allies in Dr. No

Felix Leiter

Quarrel

Miss Moneypenny

Major Boothroyd

Puss-Feller

John Strangways