Time for a new M?

Mister Greene · August 2010

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

thesecretagent · August 2010

Stephen Fry.

Ogriv83 · August 2010

I know it would never happen but I could see Sean Connery being a great M.

Ricardo C. · August 2010

Mister Greene wrote:

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

This is the stuff that I addressed in another thread. Bond is suppose to show M respect, all this nonsense he did in CR and QOS underminds M as a character.

As for who should play M next, I have no idea.

Barbel · August 2010

Mister Greene wrote:

I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time

Only the 420th? 8-) Newbies....

Mister Greene · August 2010

Ricardo C. wrote:

Mister Greene wrote:

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

This is the stuff that I addressed in another thread. Bond is suppose to show M respect, all this nonsense he did in CR and QOS underminds M as a character.

As for who should play M next, I have no idea.

I think it goes farther back than that it seems like in the Moore era the relationship started to move in that direction.

GothamKnight1902 · August 2010

I think the man who played Carmine Falcone in Batman Begins should be M, or maybe the man who once played Magneto in the X-Men "Trilogy" should be given a chance to play M. Or maybe they'll go completely left field and hire Tim Curry to portray M, and this is the same guy who once dressed in drag and sang a song about being a "Sweet Transvestite," in the Rocky Horror Picture Show...But maybe like Heath Ledger, Tim Curry could overcome the stigma of a gay role if he does an outstanding job as the new M. (Provided he gets the part, of course.)

Mister Greene · August 2010

Tim Curry? M should be a older more refined older gentleman that is somewhat imposing figure that commands respect by his mere presence, I dont think Tim Curry qualifies. Sean Connery would be awesome in this role though he would never do it but someone with his screen presence would be a grat choice, now to find him

GothamKnight1902 · August 2010

Mister Greene wrote:

Tim Curry? M should be a older more refined older gentleman that is somewhat imposing figure that commands respect by his mere presence, I dont think Tim Curry qualifies. Sean Connery would be awesome in this role though he would never do it but someone with his screen presence would be a grat choice, now to find him

Well before I mentioned Tim Curry I did say that Tom Wilkinson (Carmine Falcone - Batman Begins) would make a good M and so would Ian McKellen (Magneto - X-Men 1, 2 & 3)

perdogg · August 2010

Mister Greene wrote:

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

I wish to differ. I really cannot stand her as "M". I am not opposed to women in leadership positions, but her job has been, essentially, to emasculate Bond. Other than being a political appointee or bureaucrat - she has never establish her authority for the position.

zaphod · September 2010

Mister Greene wrote:

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

One of the superb things about Bernard Lee was the complexity in the relationship. Yes he was clearly the boss, but the obvious (to all but JB) affection he has for Bond is superb. Witness the "what would I do without you Moneypenny" exchange when our boy wants to quit in OHMSS. As for who would make a good new M please spare us another slumming it RSC thesp. I'd like an unknown. I thought Dame Judy was perfect for GE, but diminishing returns set in very quickly after that. There is a history of M indulging the errant child that is 007, but not to the degree of CR or QOS.

Mister Greene · September 2010

zaphod wrote:

Mister Greene wrote:

let me first put this out that I think Judi Dench has done a great job as M and is a great actress so I am not bashing her, but I was watching Dr. No for the 420th time and was reminded how much I miss the old M Bernard Lee, and the sense of intimidation that Bond had of him. I liked the fact that M was more of a boss and not trying to be a friend or equal to Bond.

So who would make a good M these days? and what are your thoughts on this?

One of the superb things about Bernard Lee was the complexity in the relationship. Yes he was clearly the boss, but the obvious (to all but JB) affection he has for Bond is superb. Witness the "what would I do without you Moneypenny" exchange when our boy wants to quit in OHMSS. As for who would make a good new M please spare us another slumming it RSC thesp. I'd like an unknown. I thought Dame Judy was perfect for GE, but diminishing returns set in very quickly after that. There is a history of M indulging the errant child that is 007, but not to the degree of CR or QOS.

Agreed, an unknown would be perfect so they dont bring any baggage with them, and I too thought Dench was good in GE but after that it went downhill. oh well I guess we will just wait and see what happens.

Jamesbondjr · September 2010

I have quite liked Judi Dench as 'M' but I wouldn't object to a re-cast. Although he's not an unknown I think Brendan Gleeson would make a good 'M'

Ricardo C. · September 2010

I think we need better writing for the Bond/M relationship. I want to go back when Bond respected the head of Mi6.

From Russia with Love · September 2010

I think Judi Dench is great in the role and should be kept. Actually I'd say she's the best 'M' yet. She nails that intelligence and chilled ruthless that you'd expect of someone whose job is to send people to kill in cold blood (or die trying).

Thunderpussy · September 2010

I'd just like to see M as the guy who sets the mission up for Bond. Then apart from a small scene or two isin't in the movie. Hopefully an unknown or barely know actor so the part dosen't balloon into a major plot/part of the film. Dame Judy was good but I feel it's time for a change.

thesecretagent · September 2010

It's never been all that important until recently. We need to see Bond given his orders, know that it's a hell of a mission and he might die but tough, that's the job he's paid for, get a bollocking somewhere down the line, and then that's it, no more M until the next film. What is the current M? Craig's mother?

REY1324 · September 2010

Hello, (first timer, so be gentle!)

On this matter, may I start by saying that Judi Dench has done an excellent job. The interaction she had with Pierce in his 4 movies went from School Headmaster to respect for her top agent. It was even evident with Bernard Lee when he played 'M' alongside Connery, and Moore. Looking at Dr.No for example, when 'M' bollocks (for lack of a better word) 007 for his choice of gun, and how he nearly got killed, that was the start of the 'father-son' relationship that they had. (Even in the Fleming books.)

Robert Brown did a good job, especially alongside Dalton in his 2 movies.

However, (and yes, there is one) prehaps they should have recast the role for Casino Royale. No offence, but if they were 're-booting' the series, prehaps it's a good start to begin with a clean slate. If you look at it, there was no Moneypenny, or Q in the film.

Now, for who to play 'M', that is a tough one. Prehaps Albert Finney or Brian Cox? However, would they do it as 'M' is only on screen for a few minutes.

Then again, why rock the boat. Judi is a fine choice, so why not keep with her.

Mister Greene · September 2010

I appreciate all the responses to this and most everyone has brought up some interesting thoughts on this subject.

I had a thought watching Layer Cake this past weekend and what about Michael Gambon in the role of M, he has a command when he is on screen and has that look of someone that could be in charge of a agency like this plus the look of you never know what he is up to.

DaltonFan1 · November 2010

Bill Nighy would be an excellent M, full of sophistication and someone who could convince you he has worked hard to earn his position of authority.

DangerMouse · November 2010

Not too sure about this one, but what about Ian McNeice as M? Might be a good choice. Although I've only seen him play that type of role in "The Outsiders", I think Brian Cox might also be a nice choice.

Lady Rose · November 2010

I have never been a fan of Judie Dench's M and have really disliked the direction M has gone in in the past few movies. All hands on and in the thick of the action 8-)

I would really like to see JD go and be replaced by a more traditional male M.

DEFIANT 74205 · November 2010

From Russia with Love wrote:

I think Judi Dench is great in the role and should be kept. Actually I'd say she's the best 'M' yet. She nails that intelligence and chilled ruthless that you'd expect of someone whose job is to send people to kill in cold blood (or die trying).

I disagree. I think Bernard Lee (R.I.P.) played the best M. He had the face of an old sailor that Fleming described in his novels. I also think that Lee's M is more ruthless and demanded respect just as a military Admiral would. Take this scene from Goldfinger:

"This isn't a personal vendetta, 007. It's an assignment like any other, and if you can't treat it as such, coldly and objectively, then 008 can replace you."
...

"Sir, I'm aware of my shortcomings, and I am prepared to continue this assignment in the spirit you suggest, IF I knew what it was about!"
*cold stare*
"... Sir."

Judi Dench doesn't quite pull off that aspect of M as well as Bernard Lee. Lee's M can give Bond a good dressing down far more effectively than Dench's M.

Ricardo C. · November 2010

I know most people will pounce on me when I say this but Dench's best M was in Die Another Day. She made no apologies for her actions at all and they were pretty damn un-forgiving. Now if we get something like this in the Craig era, a more down to earth reality, this would be great.

Loeffelholz · November 2010

Ricardo C. wrote:

I know most people will pounce on me when I say this but Dench's best M was in Die Another Day. She made no apologies for her actions at all and they were pretty damn un-forgiving. Now if we get something like this in the Craig era, a more down to earth reality, this would be great.

No pounce from me; I thought she was fine in DAD---better than TWINE, for my money---and I've no real problem with her rebooted M in the Craig Era (not the same character, as far as I'm concerned)...but I definitely agree that the Mother Figure has run her course, and thus the talented Dame Judi's time has come...and I think her character should be assassinated. There's a thread about it somewhere ( http://www.ajb007.co.uk/topic/30362/denchs-m-must-die/)

Ricardo C. · November 2010

Loeffelholz wrote:

Ricardo C. wrote:

I know most people will pounce on me when I say this but Dench's best M was in Die Another Day. She made no apologies for her actions at all and they were pretty damn un-forgiving. Now if we get something like this in the Craig era, a more down to earth reality, this would be great.

No pounce from me; I thought she was fine in DAD---better than TWINE, for my money---and I've no real problem with her rebooted M in the Craig Era (not the same character, as far as I'm concerned)...but I definitely agree that the Mother Figure has run her course, and thus the talented Dame Judi's time has come...and I think her character should be assassinated. There's a thread about it somewhere ( http://www.ajb007.co.uk/topic/30362/denchs-m-must-die/)

I am sorry but I just never liked the idea. It's too obvious to have her assissinated. A Resignation would be a far better effect and greater send off for Dench.

Also I think she has been fairly strong in the Craig era but I say fairly because really, she is letting Bond walk all over her. I am more tired of the rebel Bond than "Mother".

Loeffelholz · November 2010

Ricardo C. wrote:

Loeffelholz wrote:

Ricardo C. wrote:

I know most people will pounce on me when I say this but Dench's best M was in Die Another Day. She made no apologies for her actions at all and they were pretty damn un-forgiving. Now if we get something like this in the Craig era, a more down to earth reality, this would be great.

No pounce from me; I thought she was fine in DAD---better than TWINE, for my money---and I've no real problem with her rebooted M in the Craig Era (not the same character, as far as I'm concerned)...but I definitely agree that the Mother Figure has run her course, and thus the talented Dame Judi's time has come...and I think her character should be assassinated. There's a thread about it somewhere ( http://www.ajb007.co.uk/topic/30362/denchs-m-must-die/)

I am sorry but I just never liked the idea. It's too obvious to have her assissinated. A Resignation would be a far better effect and greater send off for Dench.

Also I think she has been fairly strong in the Craig era but I say fairly because really, she is letting Bond walk all over her. I am more tired of the rebel Bond than "Mother".

The effect would be the same---but I'd prefer violence, or poison. Resignation in disgrace would probably suit Quantum's modus operandi, and I could go along with that...but I like the more Shakespearean alternative...and being obvious never hurt Bill's career!

It's a fair point about Rebel Bond, who is tired (IMO) in direct proportion to Mother M. Something needs to change...and soon.

Ricardo C. · November 2010

Loeffelholz wrote:

Ricardo C. wrote:

Loeffelholz wrote:

No pounce from me; I thought she was fine in DAD---better than TWINE, for my money---and I've no real problem with her rebooted M in the Craig Era (not the same character, as far as I'm concerned)...but I definitely agree that the Mother Figure has run her course, and thus the talented Dame Judi's time has come...and I think her character should be assassinated. There's a thread about it somewhere ( http://www.ajb007.co.uk/topic/30362/denchs-m-must-die/)

I am sorry but I just never liked the idea. It's too obvious to have her assissinated. A Resignation would be a far better effect and greater send off for Dench.

Also I think she has been fairly strong in the Craig era but I say fairly because really, she is letting Bond walk all over her. I am more tired of the rebel Bond than "Mother".

The effect would be the same---but I'd prefer violence, or poison. Resignation in disgrace would probably suit Quantum's modus operandi, and I could go along with that...but I like the more Shakespearean alternative...and being obvious never hurt Bill's career!

It's a fair point about Rebel Bond, who is tired (IMO) in direct proportion to Mother M. Something needs to change...and soon.

Oh I love how your elevating your proposed idea.

Yes there needs to be change in Bond and sadly, it's beyound M and Bond.

And let me amend my statement by saying I do agree with you ! Looking back, M has had too much screentime. After a mission briefing, keep her a** out of the picture.

Loeffelholz · November 2010

Well, if you want Eon to sell Bond, best get over it! {[]

Ricardo C. · November 2010

Loeffelholz wrote:

Well, if you want Eon to sell Bond, best get over it! {[]

I am just saying they should be doing common sense and it's lacking at EON. All I want is for a James Bond film to be an effective thriller for the first time in 41 years. I think it's about time this series should be finally put to rest when Craig is gone.

Loeffelholz · November 2010

Ricardo C. wrote:

I think it's about time this series should be finally put to rest when Craig is gone.

Hmm.

Time for a new M?

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