After George Lazenby left the series, producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli tested other actors, but studio United Artists wanted Sean Connery back, paying a then-record $1.25 million salary for him to return. The producers were inspired by "Goldfinger"; as with that film, Guy Hamilton was hired to direct, and Shirley Bassey performed vocals on the title theme song. Locations included Las Vegas, California, and Amsterdam. "Diamonds Are Forever" was a commercial success and received positive reviews upon initial release, but it retrospectively was met with criticism for its humorous camp tone. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Sound.