James Bond in film not to produce any other films based on the "Thunderball" story for a period of ten years following the release of the Eon-produced version in 1965. After the interruption of McClory as producer, Albert Broccoli and Harry Saltzman returned to produce once again. The first four Bond films had been popular in Japan, and Eon decided to take advantage of the market by producing "You Only Live Twice". The film included progressive elements of Japanese culture as part of the background. Lewis Gilbert was appointed director and Ken Adam returned as production designer; Adam built a volcano hideaway set for
You Only Live Twice (film) identity of Bond's bride. "You Only Live Twice" premiered at the Odeon Leicester Square in London. It was the first premiere of a James Bond film that Queen Elizabeth II attended. The film grossed $43 million in the United States and over $111 million worldwide. Critical response today is mostly positive, with Rotten Tomatoes giving it a 71% approval rating based on 45 reviews with an average rating of 6.7/10. The website's critical consensus reads, "With exotic locales, impressive special effects, and a worthy central villain, "You Only Live Twice" overcomes a messy and implausible story to deliver another memorable