Is there any cinematic character as lasting and legendary as James Bond? This debonair 007, introduced in Ian Fleming’s 1953 novel "Casino Royale," has turned into a massive commercial success, captivating viewers from 1962 onwards when Sean Connery took on the role for the film adaptation of "Dr. No."
Throughout the years, we've seen numerous villains, pulse-pounding action sequences, plenty ofBond women, and naturally, a series of actors who have each embodied the role uniquely. However, which one stood out as the finest?
As rumors suggest Aaron Taylor-Johnson might step into Daniel Craig’s shoes as the iconic suave secret agent, we’ve put together a rundown of potential successors who have hit the bullseye—and those who could use some extra training with their firearms.
7) David Niven
Only a handful of devoted James Bond enthusiasts are aware of David Niven’s connection to the part, but he indeed took on the role in the satirical movie "Casino Royale" from 1967. With his suave, sophisticated demeanor and good looks, he represented a quintessential figure from classic Hollywood cinema. He portrayed an elder incarnation of the spy who aligns more closely with Ian Fleming’s initial concept of the character. Nonetheless, having only a minor role in this seldom-remembered picture doesn’t equate to being truly cast as 007; it’s unfortunate that he didn’t get the opportunity to bring his exceptional talent to the official portrayal.
6) George Lazenby
Unfortunate George Lazenby: destined always to sit at the bottom of all (correct) James Bond rankings. The actor from Australia wore the tuxedo only once, in the 1969 film "On Her Majesty’s Secret Service," and his portrayal of Bond is noticeably less refined compared to several of the other actors who played the role.
This rendition of Bond comes across as somewhat stiff occasionally (no trace of Connery’s charm here) and finds it challenging to meet the expectations set by the script. However, the famously somber conclusion, along with his tragic relationship with Diana Rigg’s character Tracy, leads to several emotionally wrenching moments toward the movie’s close.
However, there is humor (especially notable in Bond’s efforts to pose as Sir Hilary Bray). With fans like Steven Soderbergh and Christopher Nolan, Lazenby’s reputation has gradually improved over the years.
5) Roger Moore
Many of Roger Moore's James Bond movies have a decidedly absurd quality about them. This is perfectly acceptable if you find enjoyment in the film's inherent cheesiness.
During this period, Bond emerged as a genuine pop culture phenomenon, with Moore starring in seven movies spanning 12 years. These films heavily emphasized portraying the superspy as a lighthearted, exaggerated action hero.
Movies such as "Moonraker" and "For Your Eyes Only" demonstrated his aptitude for incorporating clever jokes. However, although the action scenes were undoubtedly enjoyable, this portrayal of Bond came across as overly exaggerated: lacking depth, with an excess of lightheartedness.
4) Timothy Dalton
Was Dalton the ideal choice for Bond? Perhaps not: the actor, known for his background in Shakespearean performances, imbues the role with a notable gravity and somberness that did not resonate universally with viewers. Although this shift marked a refreshing departure from the exaggerated style of the Roger Moore years, his serious portrayal stood in stark contrast to the roguishly charming figure fans adored.
Dalton featured in just two movies, "The Living Daylights" and "License toKill," yet his portrayal exuded a kind of brooding melancholy that Daniel Craig picked up on and expanded upon several years later. Despite these installments not doing well financially, leading to Dalton being overshadowed shortly after by the newcomer Pierce Brosnan.
3) Pierce Brosnan
On paper, Pierce Brosnan seemed like the ideal James Bond. With his charm, quick wit, and striking jet-black hair, he reintroduced a much-appreciated element of humor into the character.
Pierce Brosnan's evident enthusiasm for the character is apparent throughout all four of his movies. However, what led to his decline was primarily due to the quality of the source material. 'Goldeneye' stands out as an undeniable classic and possibly one of the greatest James Bond films ever made. In contrast, both 'Tomorrow Never Dies' and 'The World Is Not Enough' fail to meet expectations, with his final film, 'Die Another Day,' being particularly disappointing—especially the infamous invisible car scene which likely continues to plague Brosnan’s legacy among viewers who witnessed it.
2) Sean Connery
A benefit of having a franchise such as James Bond persist for an extended period is that individuals tend to have their personal favorite 007 agent – typically shaped by the era during which they first encountered these movies.
Considering this, Connery isn’t our top pick (expect groans from devoted enthusiasts), yet he remains an integral figure in the franchise’s history. The Scottish actor was the first to embrace the role of Bond wholeheartedly and truly make it his own.
Being the first actor to portray him, he embodies how many people picture James Bond. In his interpretation, the character exudes charm, has a dry sense of humor, and is proficient with firearms—there’s also an underlying edge of brutality. Even though certain aspects of his movies (particularly those centered around female characters) may not age well, they still offer several timeless favorites such as "Dr. No," "From Russia With Love," and "Goldfinger."
Daniel Craig
Once his name was revealed, many questioned if Craig possessed sufficient charm to portray the suave secret agent. After all, he was quite mature. Moreover, he had fair hair! A blonde James Bond: what an absurd idea.
Despite everyone's doubts, Craig managed to prove them wrong. He added complexity to the character (let’s be honest, it was quite underdeveloped) by delving into the effects of PTSD and examining how a position like his impacts both physical well-being and mental health.
His portrayal of Bond is savage: described by M as a "bull in a china shop," filled with fury and unresolved childhood issues. Craig transformed these movies into an intriguing delve into his character’s mind over five installments spanning fifteen years. In "Casino Royale," Bond comes off as bold and egotistical; however, this facade slowly disintegrates, revealing the tormented individual seen in subsequent films (although thankfully, "Skyfall" still offers audiences his customized Aston Martin and espionage tools).
It's as self-reflective as James Bond ever becomes, and Craig essentially revamped the whole series with his approach. This will be quite a challenge for anyone who follows him.
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