James Bond and Jack Ryan are iconic figures in the world of spy thrillers, and a new six-hour Netflix series cleverly blends the strengths of both characters. Although many spy thrillers exist, the genre is largely defined by a few key franchises. With over fifty years and more than twenty films featuring James Bond, and five different actors portraying Jack Ryan, these franchises have consistently led the way.
While fantastic spy thrillers exist outside of James Bond and Jack Ryan – like the Jason Bourne and Mission: Impossible series, and films such as Argo and The Manchurian Candidate – 007 and Jack Ryan remain the most influential figures in the genre. They essentially defined the spy thriller, and everything that followed has been measured against their success.
Netflix has some great spy thrillers available, including popular shows like The Night Agent, Black Doves, and Treason. But one of the very best – Bodyguard, with Richard Madden – was surprisingly canceled after just one six-episode season. Despite its short length (easily watched in an evening!), Bodyguard successfully combines thrilling action with complex intrigue, reminiscent of classic spy stories like James Bond and Jack Ryan.
Netflix’s Bodyguard Has All The Spy Thrills & Romance Of A James Bond Movie
Few spy thrillers match the intense action and suspense of James Bond, but the series Bodyguard comes close. The show centers on David Budd, a war veteran turned police officer who becomes famous for preventing a train bombing. His newfound notoriety leads to his assignment protecting Julia Montague, all while navigating a wave of terrorist threats.
The show Bodyguard is packed with thrilling, intense action. As a bodyguard protecting Julia, Budd is involved in fantastic action sequences, including car chases and explosions – everything you’d expect from a spy thriller. Though it’s not as large in scope as James Bond, Bodyguard delivers the excitement just as effectively, especially for those who enjoy the more recent Daniel Craig films.
Like James Bond, Bodyguard features a romantic storyline. Though Budd isn’t nearly as much of a flirt as 007, the connection between him and Julia is captivating and complex, with undeniable chemistry. The actors, Richard Madden and Keeley Hawes, have fantastic on-screen rapport. While Bodyguard doesn’t have as many action sequences as the Bond films, it portrays its romance with equal skill.
Bodyguard Also Has Enough Political Intrigue & Conspiracy To Rival Jack Ryan
The show Bodyguard successfully combines elements of both James Bond and Jack Ryan. Similar to the Jack Ryan series, particularly the 2018 version, it expertly balances action with political suspense and complex conspiracies. In fact, some of the most impactful moments in Bodyguard aren’t explosive fights, but rather carefully crafted conversations that drive the plot forward.
The TV series Bodyguard shares a lot in common with Jack Ryan. Both shows feature highly trained, resourceful heroes who advance within their governments while facing dangerous, complex conspiracies. Both men constantly risk their lives and reputations, and the stories are filled with political maneuvering and secret missions. Importantly, both shows update the spy thriller genre for the modern world, heavily incorporating technology and the digital age.
Bodyguard successfully blends the excitement of James Bond with the intelligent storytelling of Jack Ryan. You get thrilling action, a captivating romance, and a complex, politically charged plot. Best of all, its short six-episode run makes it a perfect binge-watch for fans of spy thrillers.
2026-07-25 01:37