the bbc did a drama on the life of fleming and it starred an actor called ben daniels he was excellent and i thought as did others i know that he could have made a very good 007 the point i'm making is that he looks like craig blond hair and all
Daniel Craig simply doesnt impress me as Bond. There is no doubt he is a talented actor, but the character of Bond requires a delicate mix of sensuality and raw masculine dominance that has to appear to naturally be apart of the man playing him. Connery succeeded in the role because he naturally appeared as the kind of man who could appear sophisticated and smooth in a tuxedo and explode into a hellraising secret agent. These adjectives have to appear natural by the man playing 007, and Craig doesnt have an iota of anyone of them.
Not to sound cynicial, but I wasnt too surprised the choice for Bond number 6 was lackluster. Connery, the model for the role was followed by Lazenby, while talented he didnt have the natural "look" of the Bond character and never sank into the part. Roger Moore was followed by Timothy Dalton who did resurrect an edge to Bond never evoked the larger than life appeal to wanting to be 007. Pierce Brosnan is the most talented natural Bond has had since Connery defined the part, and given the pattern EON has had of filling big shoes with small feet, it was no surprise Craig was choosen.
Choosing Craig as Bond proves the braintrust at EON simply doesnt get it. The problem was never with Pierce Brosnan. Regardless of the polarizing views some of his films brought, few regarded Brosnan as a "bad" James Bond or being the one hampering the plots of his films. The problems were always with the screenplays, most notably in Tomorrow Never Dies and Die Another Day where certain scenes were better crafted than the overall film. Polishing Purivs and Wade's work, bringing back Campbell, and basing the film on Casino Royale were all good steps, but removing Brosnan wasnt. Brosnan pushed for a stronger character in the role and his successes are visible in GoldenEye, The World Is Not Enough, and parts of Tomorrow Never Dies and Die Another Day. It makes little sense to not let him thrive in what seems to be a truly character driven Bond film.
It also doesnt help to have Moneypenny and Q removed from the script. According to Wilson, Q and Moneypenny are currently not appearing in the film. Why? The braintrust needs to learn that the hallmarks of the series, a popular 007, Q, Moneypenny etc are not the problems, fluid well paced stories are. I immediately thought of Live And Let Die when Q was removed in an effort to place less emphasis on gadgets, but Bonds wrist watch, the air gun that kills Kanaga, and Bond's boat chase still are the only stand outs in the film. Its all in using these elements to enhance, not consume the plot. Why cant EON see that?
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
I think the first time Craig kicks a** onscreen, all will be forgiven. He needs to do something debonair as soon as possible in the film, IMO (i.e., GET LAID by a hottie! ) to help him meet certain audience...expectations. :007)
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Don't be so negative about Daniel Craig - he will make a great Bond. He's been my best choice for this for ages . He was brilliant in Layer Cake - although he played a drug dealer, he oozed style and charm and he's no wimp either , you won't be disappointed !
Well I am looking foreward to Casino Royale and seeing Craigs 007 for many reasons, but I guess the main one is just because it's so different and fresh. It might be really good.
I'm sick of the monotonous drag of the blasé, in with the crowd, slick, playboy Bond films. However this will tuirn out it will certainly be very new and original, so that excites me.
Its a good thing Bourne saga is ending since that's what EON admits they are copying. Americanized Bond here we go, even down to the blond not so good looking spy. I'm less than enthused. I was all for young dark and gritty but I didn't think they would also forsake suave, charming, aristocratic good looking Bond to do it.
I'm sorry but Craig's scary looks and less than intelligent comments and even the gum chewing at the press conference have convinced me further that this is definitely a rough trade guy that is not Bond material. He belongs in a Guy Ritchie thug movie not Bond. He works in Layer Cake and Rd to Perdition because he's playing to type, a scummy guy who runs in back-alleys.
Ugh they are ruining it, all they needed was a Gerard Butler or someone in that vein and the gritty well-written script and they would have gotten it right. But instead they get the story right and screw up the most important ingrediant -- the actor. Who could look at this guy and think Bond? (okay rant is over -- just saw Craig again on tv at the press conference and had to get my frustration out -- sorry).
And Bladerunner it might be good, but it wont be Bond. As I'm watching him and his Blond wispy hair and craggy unattractive face run across the movie screen, I won't be thinking Bond -- I'll be thinking who's this ugly guy pretending to be Bond. It's not going to work -- no matter how good the script is. He's too ugly and non-Bondesque. It would be the same if they got Sean Penn to play the role yeah it will be well acted, even may have great plot, but it won't be Bond. I want it good and Bond.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
I think the first time Craig kicks a** onscreen, all will be forgiven. He needs to do something debonair as soon as possible in the film, IMO (i.e., GET LAID by a hottie! ) to help him meet certain audience...expectations. :007)
I think regardless of what will happen; whether the movie's a blockbuster or a cinematic flop, I think you'll have your "I told you sos" from both sides. Again, I reiterate, he's not a Bond of mass appeal which leads many of us to this indifference. Nobody's going to be satisfied although if he gives an inescapably, mind-blowing performance I'm man enough to eat crow. I mean to take a franchise that I love so dearly and to accept something I'm so impartial with...sorta stings.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
I frankly think the resistance to Craig is so virulent, in a few quarters, that he could give the best performance in the history of the Bond franchise and still meet with the insistent, closed-minded, "Nope! Ugly! Not Bond! I won't even look!"
I don't think this many fans have openly wished for a Bond film to fail before; it's rather disheartening. This kind of malcontent could turn into something serious for Eon, the final manifestation of which will be fewer bums in the seats...which is just what some people seem to want. ?:)
I was disappointed with his selection, but I've gotten past that now, and I'm ready to go see a Bond film. And, just for the sake of intellectual honesty, I'll see the movie BEFORE I review it...
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
I frankly think the resistance to Craig is so virulent, in a few quarters, that he could give the best performance in the history of the Bond franchise and still meet with the insistent, closed-minded, "Nope! Ugly! Not Bond! I won't even look!"
I don't think this many fans have openly wished for a Bond film to fail before; it's rather disheartening. This kind of malcontent could turn into something serious for Eon, the final manifestation of which will be fewer bums in the seats...which is just what some people seem to want. ?:)
I was disappointed with his selection, but I've gotten past that now, and I'm ready to go see a Bond film. And, just for the sake of intellectual honesty, I'll see the movie BEFORE I review it...
My point exactly. I really don't recall ever hearing or seeing such indifference when Dalton got it. Of course the internet was just in "planned parenting" stage; if that, so I don't know.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
This isn't indifference, though. This is HOSTILITY, which is IMHO far more counter-productive. I just wish people could keep their powder dry until we have a film to see. But, again, I AM a dreamer.
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
Hostility and indifference can sometimes go hand in hand, my friend. It's the human stain.
Although I do love your "it's going to be alright" stance.;)
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
I frankly think the resistance to Craig is so virulent, in a few quarters, that he could give the best performance in the history of the Bond franchise and still meet with the insistent, closed-minded, "Nope! Ugly! Not Bond! I won't even look!"
I don't think this many fans have openly wished for a Bond film to fail before; it's rather disheartening. This kind of malcontent could turn into something serious for Eon, the final manifestation of which will be fewer bums in the seats...which is just what some people seem to want. ?:)
I was disappointed with his selection, but I've gotten past that now, and I'm ready to go see a Bond film. And, just for the sake of intellectual honesty, I'll see the movie BEFORE I review it...
Well I'll see it, probably not the opening weekend as I always have in the past, but I'll be there. HOwever, I think it's somewhat blind fanaticism to say give him a chance before stating an opinion. If we were talking plot or story-line and I was stating that the movie sucks you would be right. However, there is one thing that can be prejudged and should be actually and thats the casting. I judge him to be non-bondesque by his less than attractive looks, and commonness and past performances as someone who is not a good pick to be Bond.
You would not choose Arnold Schwartzenegger to play Willie Wonka just as you wouldnt choose Johnny Depp to play Conan the Barbarian. Am I being close minded by making these broad statements? I don't think so. Craig is small, weasley looking and no where near my image of Bond and yes it's my opinion that it's going to be distracting and disappointing to seem him play that role. It will be like any other spy movie now -- to me anyway.
I think regardless of what will happen; whether the movie's a blockbuster or a cinematic flop, I think you'll have your "I told you sos" from both sides. Again, I reiterate, he's not a Bond of mass appeal which leads many of us to this indifference. Nobody's going to be satisfied although if he gives an inescapably, mind-blowing performance I'm man enough to eat crow. I mean to take a franchise that I love so dearly and to accept something I'm so impartial with...sorta stings.
I tend to agree, but we do actually have to wait and see for the simple reason that there is such a huge portion of the audience that have grown up with Brosnan at the helm of the good ship Bond.
To be fair, very few of the candidates are more Brosnan than Brosnan. Brosnan did the slick press events; he had the air of being Bond away from the films themselves. He had to do a lot of work to perfect this, but I don't put it past the new 007 to grow into the part in the same way.
To whoever criticised his press conference gum-chewing, I believe Daniel Craig smokes and that would never be allowed at such an event. Such a nerve-wracking event would have even the ardent non-smoker consider ways in which they could control their nerves. Have you been to a live televised press conference? They are astonishingly difficult especially if you are the focus of everyone's attention. Cut him some slack! The guys has to be Bond on-screen ... what he does off-screen is his business.
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
edited October 2005
Actually, I'm saying 'give him a chance' AFTER voicing my negativity about Craig for a full three months prior to his selection. My point is, we've only seen a press conference and one single publicity shot. Some people are picking apart his demeanor during the presser and using it as reasons why he can't possibly be a good Bond. My point is we don't know that yet.
I don't think anyone familiar with my voiced opinons on Craig would think they belong to a blind fanatic in his favour ?:) . And I didn't aim the 'closed-minded' comment at anyone in particular.
I just don't think your Arnold-as-Wonka or Johnny-as-Conan arguments hold any water here. If they had cast Ewan Stewart, on the other hand...
But cheer up! Maybe CR will lay the biggest turd in the history of cinema, lose tons of $$$$, and you will have the satisfaction of being proven correct. I would rather hope for the best, since cameras have not yet rolled on the production.
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
However, I think it's somewhat blind fanaticism to say give him a chance before stating an opinion ... However, there is one thing that can be prejudged and should be actually and thats the casting. I judge him to be non-bondesque by his less than attractive looks, and commonness and past performances as someone who is not a good pick to be Bond.
... Am I being close minded by making these broad statements? I don't think so. Craig is small, weasley looking and no where near my image of Bond and yes it's my opinion ...
Sorry ... but you are prejudging the movie based on purely your subjective opinion and your standards of what is good looking and what is not. And I beg your pardon, Commonness? How are your comments not blind fanaticism in themselves?
I will say, yet again, has anyone here seen his screen tests? You haven't seen him playing Bond and neither has anyone but the chosen few at Eon and MGM Sony. The reports/rumours have suggested that they were very strong screen tests. How, pray, is waiting for evidence of his performance somehow translated as blind fanaticism?
I don't think anyone familiar with my voiced opinons on Craig would think they belong to a blind fanatic in his favour ?:) . And I didn't aim the 'closed-minded' comment at anyone in particular.
I just don't think your Arnold-as-Wonka or Johnny-as-Conan arguments hold any water here. If they had cast Ewan Stewart, on the other hand...
But cheer up! Maybe CR will lay the biggest turd in the history of cinema, lose tons of $$$$, and you will have the satisfaction of being proven correct. I would rather hope for the best, since cameras have not yet rolled on the production.
I'm happy you can see this guy and still think its Bond you are watching, I'm just saying I can't. He is too far away from my image of what Bond should be for me to suspend reality that much -- frankly I dont see much difference between him and Ewan Stewart. Perhaps Ewan Stewart (who've I have never seen on film) has a more aristocrtic aire. I don't konw. Craig's casting has already put a damper on CR for me. You seem to think that we must support anything that is put on screen and if we express our disappointment that we are closeminded or negative or prejudging, I disagree . Bond belongs to the masses just as much as it belongs to EON and when they mess it up it effects everyones enjoyment of a classic.
By the way I dont expect it to be a flop, I think they will advertise the heck out of it and make some great trailers and it will do well. However, my fear and prediction is that the Bond I love is over, that EON has sold out to a younger crowd and the things I love about it are history. Craig is the future and I don't see it being as classy or as clever or as British.
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
I'm not saying we MUST support anything. I'm merely labouring to make the point that the movie hasn't been made yet. [sigh]
By the way, can you tell me tonight's winning lottery numbers? I'd rather not have to work next week...
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
superadoRegent's Park West (CaliforniaPosts: 2,656MI6 Agent
I frankly think the resistance to Craig is so virulent, in a few quarters, that he could give the best performance in the history of the Bond franchise and still meet with the insistent, closed-minded, "Nope! Ugly! Not Bond! I won't even look!"
I don't think this many fans have openly wished for a Bond film to fail before; it's rather disheartening. This kind of malcontent could turn into something serious for Eon, the final manifestation of which will be fewer bums in the seats...which is just what some people seem to want. ?:)
I was disappointed with his selection, but I've gotten past that now, and I'm ready to go see a Bond film. And, just for the sake of intellectual honesty, I'll see the movie BEFORE I review it...
Yeah? Then why don't you stop slamming the poker and wait to watch it before passing judgement? Do you reserve the sole privilege to nurse a peeve on this board?
And yes, I am one who wouldn't mind seeing EON/MGM/SONY crash and burn their Bond fanchise, to perhaps sell it to Richard Branson or Irish Dreamworks ( ) ).
"...the purposeful slant of his striding figure looked dangerous, as if he was making quickly for something bad that was happening further down the street." -SMERSH on 007 dossier photo, Ch. 6 FRWL.....
Yeah? Then why don't you stop slamming the poker and wait to watch it before passing judgement? Do you reserve the sole privilege to nurse a peeve on this board?
Goodness! Who peed in our Cheerios?
If you review the poker thread, you'll find that I stated, on more than one occasion, that worse things could happen in CR than a poker game in a Bahamas casino. I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story, but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it. You haven't heard me threatening a boycott of CR because of the stupid poker idea, or predicting a total collapse of the film, now have you?
I'm merely bemoaning the IDEA, just as most here are bemoaning the CASTING of Craig. These are opinions, which I've been led to believe is what these boards are for.
I guess my not wanting Bond to fail is one of the countless things which seperate us, friend---as well as the fact that I would never lash out at you as you just did with me.
Hope you get to feeling better.
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
Well, enough poison for one day. See ya...
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
I don't know if those of you outside the United Kingdom are aware of some of the press reaction, or are even interested, but some of the headlines and articles in the tabloids are either mocking, indifferent or down right hostile. There certainly does not appear to be a consensus of excitement. There's also reports that some UK bookies have already slashed the odds for Craig to leave the role after one film.
Some examples -
Daily Record:
EH OOP! THE NAME'S BOND .. LICENSED TO DRINK BITTER & RACE FERRETS
ACTOR Daniel Craig's flat cap is hardly the elegant attire James Bond fans expect from the spy.
The Sun:
NOT SO FAST MR BOND...
New Bond star Daniel Craig was shaken and stirred yesterday - after being "scared s***less" by the Royal Marines.
The Scotsman:
WE EXPECT YOU TO DYE, MR BOND...
According to a leaked memo, Hugh Jackman, who played Wolverine in the X-Men movies as well Curly in the Broadway musical Oklahoma, was favoured by the producer, Michael Wilson, but dismissed as too fey by Barbara Broccoli.
But by far and away the most hostile toward Craig is the Daily Mirror:
THE NAME'S BLAND.. JAMES BLAND
New Bond Daniel Craig's deadly dull debut
THE new James Bond turned into Dr Don't Know yesterday in an embarrassing first interview with the world's press.
Hours after officially landing the role as the super-smooth international spy, nervy Daniel Craig seemed more bland than Bond.
Chomping on a piece of chewie, he gave a series of boring, monosyllabic answers about his major new role.
This is how deadly dull Dan - the Man with the Golden Gum - failed on his first mission as 007...
Q: How do you feel about getting the job?
A: I can't tell you really. I'm speechless.
Q: Why do you want to play Bond?
A: Why not?
Q: Who's your ideal Bond girl?
A: I've got my ideal Bond girl.
Q: Why are you the ideal 21st century Bond?
A: I can't answer that. I don't know.
Q: What are the reasons for Bond's enduring popularity?
A: I don't know the answer to that.
Q: Are you looking forward to becoming a legend?
A: I don't know about that.
Q: What will you bring to the character?
A: I would love to give you a long convoluted answer but I don't have one.
Q: How are you going to make your James Bond different?
A: It's really difficult to answer just yet and we're going to have wait until I've done it. I want to make the best Bond I can.
Q: (Referring to yesterday's exclusive Mirror story) Who'd have thought the greatest spy's own worst enemy would be his mum who told everybody you were going to be the new James Bond. How did you react to that?
A: I'd rather not say. Hey ho.
Q: Are you going to be the first blond Bond? What kind of changes will you be making?
A: Not that many.
Q: Are you going to be dyeing your hair? It looks darker in the publicity photos.
A: It's just the lighting, that's all.
Q: So you're going to be blond?
A: I think so.
Daniel's debut was in stark contrast to Pierce Brosnan's assured performance when he was unveiled as 007 in 1994.
Brosnan confidently outlined his vision of a modern Bond - "flinty with a little more humour".
He added: "We want to peel back some layers of his character and see what demons may lie there." Sadly Daniel was a lot less forthcoming yesterday. Arriving at the London press launch in a speedboat flanked by Royal Marines, he admitted he was speechless.
And that's pretty much how he stayed.
Even a glass of champagne and a couple of dry martinis - shaken, not bothered - failed to loosen his tongue.
Daniel is currently in the headlines for a fling with his former Layer Cake co-star Sienna Miller following her betrayal by Jude Law.
Last year he had a romance with supermodel Kate Moss.
Asked whether he would prefer Miller or Moss as his Bond girl, he dodged the question by replying: "I'm not going to get into that."
Instead he named his favourite Bond girl as Diana Rigg in On Her Majesty's Secret Service. His favourite Bond actor is the original, Sean Connery.
Daniel arrived for the press conference by speeding under London's Tower Bridge to the jetty of HMS President.
He wore an immaculate suit by Brioni - the Italian tailors who also dressed Brosnan for his 007 films.
But the overall effect was slightly spoiled by the life-jacket he was forced to put on aboard the boat.
Daniel also dropped a heavy hint that he is unlikely to be doing all his own stunts when he said: "I'd like to thank the Royal Marines for bringing me in like that - and scaring the s**t out of me."
He admitted taking the world-famous role would not help him preserve the privacy he jealously guards.
He said: "I understand that doing this doesn't help but I'm not going to change my attitude. We'll take it a day at a time".
Born in Chester and raised on the Wirral, Daniel left school aged 16.
Producers spent two years looking for their new Bond and auditioned more than 200 actors - but Daniel said he was always confident he would land the coveted role.
He found out for certain on Monday while filming in the US and said his first reaction was: "I need a drink."
Apart from being the first blond Bond, he will be only the second Englishman to play the role, after Roger Moore.
He revealed he had discussed the job with Pierce - who was axed as too old after five blockbusting films. Bet that was riveting conversation, Daniel...
Daniel Craig is the man, TPTB think can attract a younger demographic to the Bond franchise? ) This redirection that TPTB want to take in the Bond franchise is questionable. Brosnan's last Bond film was the highest grossing Bond film(not adjusted for inflation)of all time. Why not continue to milk the box-office, successful Brosnan for all he is worth, before attempting to take Bond down a different path?
Brosnan can not be the Bond of Casino Royale, which consist of how Bond got started. He is the Bond, that had a female M, as the head of MI6; after years of having Bond answer to a male in that position. Plus, he is the Bond that watched as Q retired. But, why does Casino Royale have to be the next James Bond film?
NightshooterIn bed with SolitairePosts: 2,917MI6 Agent
That made me laugh, M5. Was anyone like this when Pierce got the role, or Tim?
Q: How do you feel about getting the job?
A: I can't tell you really. I'm speechless.
Q: Why do you want to play Bond?
A: Why not?
Q: Who's your ideal Bond girl?
A: I've got my ideal Bond girl.
Q: Why are you the ideal 21st century Bond?
A: I can't answer that. I don't know.
Q: What are the reasons for Bond's enduring popularity?
A: I don't know the answer to that.
Q: Are you looking forward to becoming a legend?
A: I don't know about that.
Q: What will you bring to the character?
A: I would love to give you a long convoluted answer but I don't have one.
Q: How are you going to make your James Bond different?
A: It's really difficult to answer just yet and we're going to have wait until I've done it. I want to make the best Bond I can.
Q: (Referring to yesterday's exclusive Mirror story) Who'd have thought the greatest spy's own worst enemy would be his mum who told everybody you were going to be the new James Bond. How did you react to that?
A: I'd rather not say. Hey ho.
Q: Are you going to be the first blond Bond? What kind of changes will you be making?
A: Not that many.
Q: Are you going to be dyeing your hair? It looks darker in the publicity photos.
A: It's just the lighting, that's all.
Q: So you're going to be blond?
A: I think so.
Wow! Are these REALLY the real questions and answers? No wonder...
superadoRegent's Park West (CaliforniaPosts: 2,656MI6 Agent
Yeah? Then why don't you stop slamming the poker and wait to watch it before passing judgement? Do you reserve the sole privilege to nurse a peeve on this board?
Goodness! Who peed in our Cheerios?
If you review the poker thread, you'll find that I stated, on more than one occasion, that worse things could happen in CR than a poker game in a Bahamas casino. I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story, but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it. You haven't heard me threatening a boycott of CR because of the stupid poker idea, or predicting a total collapse of the film, now have you?
I'm merely bemoaning the IDEA, just as most here are bemoaning the CASTING of Craig. These are opinions, which I've been led to believe is what these boards are for.
I guess my not wanting Bond to fail is one of the countless things which seperate us, friend---as well as the fact that I would never lash out at you as you just did with me.
Hope you get to feeling better.
You'd never lash? I suppose cheap shots and happy faced one liners are okay. Nonetheless, I regret the offence these discussions cause, Loeffolholz, but it's quite difficult to distill the dregs from these current debates, especially being in this controversial juncture of the fandom.
You know, in itself it's admirable to promote ...but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it.
But the problem is, it gets far outweighed by repeated posts, like "I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story...
I'm not singling you out, but I think it's so cheap when members berate everyone else with their sensitive peeves, then in some obscure post script "absolves" themselves by saying, "but I will be open-minded" and mounts a soap box admonishing other misguided members about not being open minded.
No, that is not right.
"...the purposeful slant of his striding figure looked dangerous, as if he was making quickly for something bad that was happening further down the street." -SMERSH on 007 dossier photo, Ch. 6 FRWL.....
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited October 2005
After looking at the clip yesterday and reading the Q & A, I have to reluctanly side with *ulp* Craig on this particular instance...
I mean it all sort of happened so fast. And we have to ask ourselves, (need I remind you that we've never been in a situation like that I don't suppose) could we have handled all of that coming at you at once better than he? I mean, my God that's a lot to soak in. Sure he couldn't be as charming, suave and charasmatic as Pierce was but I felt bad for him.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
Yeah? Then why don't you stop slamming the poker and wait to watch it before passing judgement? Do you reserve the sole privilege to nurse a peeve on this board?
Goodness! Who peed in our Cheerios?
If you review the poker thread, you'll find that I stated, on more than one occasion, that worse things could happen in CR than a poker game in a Bahamas casino. I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story, but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it. You haven't heard me threatening a boycott of CR because of the stupid poker idea, or predicting a total collapse of the film, now have you?
I'm merely bemoaning the IDEA, just as most here are bemoaning the CASTING of Craig. These are opinions, which I've been led to believe is what these boards are for.
I guess my not wanting Bond to fail is one of the countless things which seperate us, friend---as well as the fact that I would never lash out at you as you just did with me.
Hope you get to feeling better.
You'd never lash? I suppose cheap shots and happy faced one liners are okay. Nonetheless, I regret the offence these discussions cause, Loeffolholz, but it's quite difficult to distill the dregs from these current debates, especially being in this controversial juncture of the fandom.
You know, in itself it's admirable to promote ...but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it.
But the problem is, it gets far outweighed by repeated posts, like "I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story...
I'm not singling you out, but I think it's so cheap when members berate everyone else with their sensitive peeves, then in some obscure post script "absolves" themselves by saying, "but I will be open-minded" and mounts a soap box admonishing other misguided members about not being open minded.
No, that is not right.
Well, if anyone here feels I've issued them a cheap shot, I hereby apologize.
And I'll try to keep the open-mindedness to a minimum.
Cheers
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
This is how deadly dull Dan - the Man with the Golden Gum - failed on his first mission as 007...
Q: How do you feel about getting the job?
A: I can't tell you really. I'm speechless.
Q: Why do you want to play Bond?
A: Why not?
Q: Who's your ideal Bond girl?
A: I've got my ideal Bond girl.
Q: Why are you the ideal 21st century Bond?
A: I can't answer that. I don't know.
Q: What are the reasons for Bond's enduring popularity?
A: I don't know the answer to that.
Q: Are you looking forward to becoming a legend?
A: I don't know about that.
Q: What will you bring to the character?
A: I would love to give you a long convoluted answer but I don't have one.
Q: How are you going to make your James Bond different?
A: It's really difficult to answer just yet and we're going to have wait until I've done it. I want to make the best Bond I can.
Q: (Referring to yesterday's exclusive Mirror story) Who'd have thought the greatest spy's own worst enemy would be his mum who told everybody you were going to be the new James Bond. How did you react to that?
A: I'd rather not say. Hey ho.
Q: Are you going to be the first blond Bond? What kind of changes will you be making?
A: Not that many.
Q: Are you going to be dyeing your hair? It looks darker in the publicity photos.
A: It's just the lighting, that's all.
Q: So you're going to be blond?
A: I think so.
Well, if Daniel Craig fails as James Bond he could always find a job in Parliament.
I will add the headline in today's Daily Mail to those that M5 posted earlier.
Shaken and stirred
Asked whether Kate Moss or Sienna Miller would be his favourite Bond girl, the new 007 is left spluttering
Comments
Not to sound cynicial, but I wasnt too surprised the choice for Bond number 6 was lackluster. Connery, the model for the role was followed by Lazenby, while talented he didnt have the natural "look" of the Bond character and never sank into the part. Roger Moore was followed by Timothy Dalton who did resurrect an edge to Bond never evoked the larger than life appeal to wanting to be 007. Pierce Brosnan is the most talented natural Bond has had since Connery defined the part, and given the pattern EON has had of filling big shoes with small feet, it was no surprise Craig was choosen.
Choosing Craig as Bond proves the braintrust at EON simply doesnt get it. The problem was never with Pierce Brosnan. Regardless of the polarizing views some of his films brought, few regarded Brosnan as a "bad" James Bond or being the one hampering the plots of his films. The problems were always with the screenplays, most notably in Tomorrow Never Dies and Die Another Day where certain scenes were better crafted than the overall film. Polishing Purivs and Wade's work, bringing back Campbell, and basing the film on Casino Royale were all good steps, but removing Brosnan wasnt. Brosnan pushed for a stronger character in the role and his successes are visible in GoldenEye, The World Is Not Enough, and parts of Tomorrow Never Dies and Die Another Day. It makes little sense to not let him thrive in what seems to be a truly character driven Bond film.
It also doesnt help to have Moneypenny and Q removed from the script. According to Wilson, Q and Moneypenny are currently not appearing in the film. Why? The braintrust needs to learn that the hallmarks of the series, a popular 007, Q, Moneypenny etc are not the problems, fluid well paced stories are. I immediately thought of Live And Let Die when Q was removed in an effort to place less emphasis on gadgets, but Bonds wrist watch, the air gun that kills Kanaga, and Bond's boat chase still are the only stand outs in the film. Its all in using these elements to enhance, not consume the plot. Why cant EON see that?
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Its a good thing Bourne saga is ending since that's what EON admits they are copying. Americanized Bond here we go, even down to the blond not so good looking spy. I'm less than enthused. I was all for young dark and gritty but I didn't think they would also forsake suave, charming, aristocratic good looking Bond to do it.
I'm sorry but Craig's scary looks and less than intelligent comments and even the gum chewing at the press conference have convinced me further that this is definitely a rough trade guy that is not Bond material. He belongs in a Guy Ritchie thug movie not Bond. He works in Layer Cake and Rd to Perdition because he's playing to type, a scummy guy who runs in back-alleys.
Ugh they are ruining it, all they needed was a Gerard Butler or someone in that vein and the gritty well-written script and they would have gotten it right. But instead they get the story right and screw up the most important ingrediant -- the actor. Who could look at this guy and think Bond? (okay rant is over -- just saw Craig again on tv at the press conference and had to get my frustration out -- sorry).
And Bladerunner it might be good, but it wont be Bond. As I'm watching him and his Blond wispy hair and craggy unattractive face run across the movie screen, I won't be thinking Bond -- I'll be thinking who's this ugly guy pretending to be Bond. It's not going to work -- no matter how good the script is. He's too ugly and non-Bondesque. It would be the same if they got Sean Penn to play the role yeah it will be well acted, even may have great plot, but it won't be Bond. I want it good and Bond.
I think regardless of what will happen; whether the movie's a blockbuster or a cinematic flop, I think you'll have your "I told you sos" from both sides. Again, I reiterate, he's not a Bond of mass appeal which leads many of us to this indifference. Nobody's going to be satisfied although if he gives an inescapably, mind-blowing performance I'm man enough to eat crow. I mean to take a franchise that I love so dearly and to accept something I'm so impartial with...sorta stings.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
I don't think this many fans have openly wished for a Bond film to fail before; it's rather disheartening. This kind of malcontent could turn into something serious for Eon, the final manifestation of which will be fewer bums in the seats...which is just what some people seem to want. ?:)
I was disappointed with his selection, but I've gotten past that now, and I'm ready to go see a Bond film. And, just for the sake of intellectual honesty, I'll see the movie BEFORE I review it...
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
My point exactly. I really don't recall ever hearing or seeing such indifference when Dalton got it. Of course the internet was just in "planned parenting" stage; if that, so I don't know.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Although I do love your "it's going to be alright" stance.;)
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Well I'll see it, probably not the opening weekend as I always have in the past, but I'll be there. HOwever, I think it's somewhat blind fanaticism to say give him a chance before stating an opinion. If we were talking plot or story-line and I was stating that the movie sucks you would be right. However, there is one thing that can be prejudged and should be actually and thats the casting. I judge him to be non-bondesque by his less than attractive looks, and commonness and past performances as someone who is not a good pick to be Bond.
You would not choose Arnold Schwartzenegger to play Willie Wonka just as you wouldnt choose Johnny Depp to play Conan the Barbarian. Am I being close minded by making these broad statements? I don't think so. Craig is small, weasley looking and no where near my image of Bond and yes it's my opinion that it's going to be distracting and disappointing to seem him play that role. It will be like any other spy movie now -- to me anyway.
I tend to agree, but we do actually have to wait and see for the simple reason that there is such a huge portion of the audience that have grown up with Brosnan at the helm of the good ship Bond.
To be fair, very few of the candidates are more Brosnan than Brosnan. Brosnan did the slick press events; he had the air of being Bond away from the films themselves. He had to do a lot of work to perfect this, but I don't put it past the new 007 to grow into the part in the same way.
To whoever criticised his press conference gum-chewing, I believe Daniel Craig smokes and that would never be allowed at such an event. Such a nerve-wracking event would have even the ardent non-smoker consider ways in which they could control their nerves. Have you been to a live televised press conference? They are astonishingly difficult especially if you are the focus of everyone's attention. Cut him some slack! The guys has to be Bond on-screen ... what he does off-screen is his business.
I don't think anyone familiar with my voiced opinons on Craig would think they belong to a blind fanatic in his favour ?:) . And I didn't aim the 'closed-minded' comment at anyone in particular.
I just don't think your Arnold-as-Wonka or Johnny-as-Conan arguments hold any water here. If they had cast Ewan Stewart, on the other hand...
But cheer up! Maybe CR will lay the biggest turd in the history of cinema, lose tons of $$$$, and you will have the satisfaction of being proven correct. I would rather hope for the best, since cameras have not yet rolled on the production.
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Sorry ... but you are prejudging the movie based on purely your subjective opinion and your standards of what is good looking and what is not. And I beg your pardon, Commonness? How are your comments not blind fanaticism in themselves?
I will say, yet again, has anyone here seen his screen tests? You haven't seen him playing Bond and neither has anyone but the chosen few at Eon and MGM Sony. The reports/rumours have suggested that they were very strong screen tests. How, pray, is waiting for evidence of his performance somehow translated as blind fanaticism?
I'm happy you can see this guy and still think its Bond you are watching, I'm just saying I can't. He is too far away from my image of what Bond should be for me to suspend reality that much -- frankly I dont see much difference between him and Ewan Stewart. Perhaps Ewan Stewart (who've I have never seen on film) has a more aristocrtic aire. I don't konw. Craig's casting has already put a damper on CR for me. You seem to think that we must support anything that is put on screen and if we express our disappointment that we are closeminded or negative or prejudging, I disagree . Bond belongs to the masses just as much as it belongs to EON and when they mess it up it effects everyones enjoyment of a classic.
By the way I dont expect it to be a flop, I think they will advertise the heck out of it and make some great trailers and it will do well. However, my fear and prediction is that the Bond I love is over, that EON has sold out to a younger crowd and the things I love about it are history. Craig is the future and I don't see it being as classy or as clever or as British.
By the way, can you tell me tonight's winning lottery numbers? I'd rather not have to work next week...
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Yeah? Then why don't you stop slamming the poker and wait to watch it before passing judgement? Do you reserve the sole privilege to nurse a peeve on this board?
And yes, I am one who wouldn't mind seeing EON/MGM/SONY crash and burn their Bond fanchise, to perhaps sell it to Richard Branson or Irish Dreamworks (
So far I think AJB has only one female who has said she accepts Craig (yet even she seems to be begrudgingly trying to come to terms with his casting)
The rest of us don't seem to be able to.
Goodness! Who peed in our Cheerios?
If you review the poker thread, you'll find that I stated, on more than one occasion, that worse things could happen in CR than a poker game in a Bahamas casino. I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story, but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it. You haven't heard me threatening a boycott of CR because of the stupid poker idea, or predicting a total collapse of the film, now have you?
I'm merely bemoaning the IDEA, just as most here are bemoaning the CASTING of Craig. These are opinions, which I've been led to believe is what these boards are for.
I guess my not wanting Bond to fail is one of the countless things which seperate us, friend---as well as the fact that I would never lash out at you as you just did with me.
Hope you get to feeling better.
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Some examples -
Daily Record:
EH OOP! THE NAME'S BOND .. LICENSED TO DRINK BITTER & RACE FERRETS
ACTOR Daniel Craig's flat cap is hardly the elegant attire James Bond fans expect from the spy.
The Sun:
NOT SO FAST MR BOND...
New Bond star Daniel Craig was shaken and stirred yesterday - after being "scared s***less" by the Royal Marines.
The Scotsman:
WE EXPECT YOU TO DYE, MR BOND...
According to a leaked memo, Hugh Jackman, who played Wolverine in the X-Men movies as well Curly in the Broadway musical Oklahoma, was favoured by the producer, Michael Wilson, but dismissed as too fey by Barbara Broccoli.
But by far and away the most hostile toward Craig is the Daily Mirror:
THE NAME'S BLAND.. JAMES BLAND
New Bond Daniel Craig's deadly dull debut
THE new James Bond turned into Dr Don't Know yesterday in an embarrassing first interview with the world's press.
Hours after officially landing the role as the super-smooth international spy, nervy Daniel Craig seemed more bland than Bond.
Chomping on a piece of chewie, he gave a series of boring, monosyllabic answers about his major new role.
This is how deadly dull Dan - the Man with the Golden Gum - failed on his first mission as 007...
Q: How do you feel about getting the job?
A: I can't tell you really. I'm speechless.
Q: Why do you want to play Bond?
A: Why not?
Q: Who's your ideal Bond girl?
A: I've got my ideal Bond girl.
Q: Why are you the ideal 21st century Bond?
A: I can't answer that. I don't know.
Q: What are the reasons for Bond's enduring popularity?
A: I don't know the answer to that.
Q: Are you looking forward to becoming a legend?
A: I don't know about that.
Q: What will you bring to the character?
A: I would love to give you a long convoluted answer but I don't have one.
Q: How are you going to make your James Bond different?
A: It's really difficult to answer just yet and we're going to have wait until I've done it. I want to make the best Bond I can.
Q: (Referring to yesterday's exclusive Mirror story) Who'd have thought the greatest spy's own worst enemy would be his mum who told everybody you were going to be the new James Bond. How did you react to that?
A: I'd rather not say. Hey ho.
Q: Are you going to be the first blond Bond? What kind of changes will you be making?
A: Not that many.
Q: Are you going to be dyeing your hair? It looks darker in the publicity photos.
A: It's just the lighting, that's all.
Q: So you're going to be blond?
A: I think so.
Daniel's debut was in stark contrast to Pierce Brosnan's assured performance when he was unveiled as 007 in 1994.
Brosnan confidently outlined his vision of a modern Bond - "flinty with a little more humour".
He added: "We want to peel back some layers of his character and see what demons may lie there." Sadly Daniel was a lot less forthcoming yesterday. Arriving at the London press launch in a speedboat flanked by Royal Marines, he admitted he was speechless.
And that's pretty much how he stayed.
Even a glass of champagne and a couple of dry martinis - shaken, not bothered - failed to loosen his tongue.
Daniel is currently in the headlines for a fling with his former Layer Cake co-star Sienna Miller following her betrayal by Jude Law.
Last year he had a romance with supermodel Kate Moss.
Asked whether he would prefer Miller or Moss as his Bond girl, he dodged the question by replying: "I'm not going to get into that."
Instead he named his favourite Bond girl as Diana Rigg in On Her Majesty's Secret Service. His favourite Bond actor is the original, Sean Connery.
Daniel arrived for the press conference by speeding under London's Tower Bridge to the jetty of HMS President.
He wore an immaculate suit by Brioni - the Italian tailors who also dressed Brosnan for his 007 films.
But the overall effect was slightly spoiled by the life-jacket he was forced to put on aboard the boat.
Daniel also dropped a heavy hint that he is unlikely to be doing all his own stunts when he said: "I'd like to thank the Royal Marines for bringing me in like that - and scaring the s**t out of me."
He admitted taking the world-famous role would not help him preserve the privacy he jealously guards.
He said: "I understand that doing this doesn't help but I'm not going to change my attitude. We'll take it a day at a time".
Born in Chester and raised on the Wirral, Daniel left school aged 16.
Producers spent two years looking for their new Bond and auditioned more than 200 actors - but Daniel said he was always confident he would land the coveted role.
He found out for certain on Monday while filming in the US and said his first reaction was: "I need a drink."
Apart from being the first blond Bond, he will be only the second Englishman to play the role, after Roger Moore.
He revealed he had discussed the job with Pierce - who was axed as too old after five blockbusting films. Bet that was riveting conversation, Daniel...
Brosnan can not be the Bond of Casino Royale, which consist of how Bond got started. He is the Bond, that had a female M, as the head of MI6; after years of having Bond answer to a male in that position. Plus, he is the Bond that watched as Q retired. But, why does Casino Royale have to be the next James Bond film?
Wow! Are these REALLY the real questions and answers? No wonder...
You'd never lash? I suppose cheap shots and happy faced one liners are okay. Nonetheless, I regret the offence these discussions cause, Loeffolholz, but it's quite difficult to distill the dregs from these current debates, especially being in this controversial juncture of the fandom.
You know, in itself it's admirable to promote ...but OF COURSE I'm going to wait and see it.
But the problem is, it gets far outweighed by repeated posts, like "I dislike the IDEA of the Texas Hold 'Em Poker fad infecting a Bond story...
I'm not singling you out, but I think it's so cheap when members berate everyone else with their sensitive peeves, then in some obscure post script "absolves" themselves by saying, "but I will be open-minded" and mounts a soap box admonishing other misguided members about not being open minded.
No, that is not right.
I mean it all sort of happened so fast. And we have to ask ourselves, (need I remind you that we've never been in a situation like that I don't suppose) could we have handled all of that coming at you at once better than he? I mean, my God that's a lot to soak in. Sure he couldn't be as charming, suave and charasmatic as Pierce was but I felt bad for him.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Well, if anyone here feels I've issued them a cheap shot, I hereby apologize.
And I'll try to keep the open-mindedness to a minimum.
Cheers
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Well, if Daniel Craig fails as James Bond he could always find a job in Parliament.
I will add the headline in today's Daily Mail to those that M5 posted earlier.
Shaken and stirred
Asked whether Kate Moss or Sienna Miller would be his favourite Bond girl, the new 007 is left spluttering