Bond’s blackjack run in Licence to Kill is immediately flagged by the pit boss, who dismissively labels him a “jerk-off” while reporting to Sanchez. The insult feels misplaced, since Bond isn’t causing trouble and is a high-roller, confidently backing five $10,000 hands and dropping a quarter million dollars without hesitation.

What gives, Mr. Pit Boss? If anything, his irritation seems rooted in resentment, which is not surprising with someone like James Bond who commands the room so effortlessly. Whatever the motive, the strategy works exactly as Bond intends. The conspicuous play draws Sanchez’s attention fast, forcing the face-to-face Bond needs to infiltrate his world.