'Diamonds Are Forever,' a 1971 James Bond film starring Sean Connery, is set to air on ITV4 tonight, but it has faced a torrent of negative reviews from fans who label it as a 'masterclass in how not to make a 007 movie.' The film follows Bond as he investigates a diamond smuggling operation that ultimately leads him to confront his arch-enemy, Ernst Stavro Blofeld, who plans to use the stolen diamonds for a destructive laser-satellite weapon. Though it features Connery in one of his most iconic roles, it has been eclipsed by other celebrated entries in the franchise such as 'Goldfinger.'

The critical reception from fans highlights a sentiment that 'Diamonds Are Forever' lacks the excitement and innovation that has characterized other films in the Bond series. Many viewers have described it as 'boring' and have suggested that prospective watchers would be better off choosing any other film from the franchise. This reaction points to a broader concern among fans regarding the changes in tone and storytelling in Bond films, especially when compared to earlier works.

As this film is re-examined through the lens of its recent broadcasts, it may provoke further discussions among audiences about the evolution of the James Bond character and the expectations placed on such a classic series. The reputation of 'Diamonds Are Forever' stands as a notable example of how even iconic entertainment properties can produce entries that fail to resonate with viewers, raising questions about what truly makes a successful installment in such a long-standing franchise.