This is a cool two-scene sequence from Live And Let Die (1973).

As Bond (Roger Moore) and Felix Leiter (David Hedison) prepare to investigate Mr. Big further, we get a glimpse into their literal dressing room. As Felix ties up loose ends with the “airplane matter” from the previous scene, Bond shows his diva side by working with a tailor for his mission outfits, with room service in tow, nonetheless.

“That’s fine, you can fit the rest this afternoon. Don’t forget the double vents.”

*eyeroll* Quite the snobby request for a secret agent – and don’t worry, in the next scene at Fillet of Soul, he has the double vents! (two slits in his suit coat back) Who knew Bond worked with a local tailor as part of his mission prep – and how he chooses the ties, calling one out as “frantic” and keeping the rest – he really is a fish out of water in the USA/Harlem!

Bond then forwards a note for info on the Fillet of Soul bar on Docker Street that may be of interest, and Felix seems to be a step ahead with an agent (Strutters) already on surveilling the place. Unfortunately, unbeknownst to Strutters, as we have seen previously in the movie, he witnesses a funeral procession that turns out to be his own! This and the previous funeral scene are a bit unnerving, as we must assume all of the players/characters in the funeral parade are “in” on its murderous intent. Poor Strutters!

Despite its dastardly purpose, the parade and its participants are a lot of fun, and there are a number of notable moments: including the crying but now celebratory widow, the awesome, catchy tune, the outrageous, accurate and vintage 1970s style of everyone, and the feather fan dancers. Don’t forget the feather fans!

And Felix’s clueless comment among other issues just goes to show how poorly the entire MI6/CIA mission in Live And Let Die really went. Kananga/Mr. Big seemed to have the upper hand most of the time, and Felix and Bond are lucky to have survived unscathed!

Strutter’s unknowing funeral procession from Live And Let Die (1973)