A National Bond? 007 Plods On

The collective British eyebrow was raised ever since rumours surfaced over Pierce Brosnan's successor...

One name mentioned was that of Colin Farrell, whose mainly rugged background makes him an admittedly strange option. However, as an existing 'big-ish' name, it is unlikely that the Irishman

But wait, an Irishman? He don't speak proper? No, of course these aren't our objections, but they are rather predictable responses from British (well, English) audiences, to whom James Bond is a national institution. Well, who gives an F (or an 'M' or a 'Q', for that matter)? What is the long-lasting MI6 agent really all about? Sophistication, suave and sex. Throw in a few one-liners and athleticism, and do we have the perfect Brit? Not if Jack Osbourne is anything to go by.

Why not have an American? (So long as it isn't Ben Stiller). Better yet, just don't worry about such things. Yes, the posh limey accent contributes to the personality, but it's not like an Australian, American or Paraguayan can give it a go. Just look at Dick Van Dyke! Besides, Brosnan is Irish himself, while Sean Connery was, and still is, Scottish (a Scottish Nationalist, no less).

My vote would go to Will Smith, but he wouldn't take the poisoned chalice of typecasting. Predicatbly, little known Brit Daniel Craig (Lara Croft: Tomb Raider) is expected to pip fellow countryman Clive Owen (Closer) to the role. They'll be cracking open the cups of tea when they hear the news over the 'Pond'.

John Gold
Staff Writer, Kikizo Movies