In You Only Live Twice, Ernst Stavro Blofeld’s command just before the rocket launch is a revealing character moment. It showcases not only his vigilance, but also a distinctly controlling, almost micromanaging leadership style.

When Bond infiltrates the mission under the guise of an astronaut and carelessly brings an air-conditioning unit into the capsule, Blofeld immediately recognizes the mistake that a genuine astronaut would never overlook and demands to confront the astronaut face to face. The scene marks the first time we finally see Blofeld’s face, with Donald Pleasence delivering the iconic scar-eyed, cold stare.

There’s something deliberately unsettling about his choice to first address Bond with a henchman standing between them. Yet it’s somehow fitting, especially set against the grandeur of the definitive Bond villain headquarters: a volcano lair. And coincidentally a moment that cements Blofeld as a definitive Bond villain.