Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig playing James Bond
Born in Chester, England on 2nd March 1968

Starred in Casino Royale (2006)Quantum of Solace(2008)

film information

After the release of Die Another Day in 2002, Pierce Brosnan was reported as being enthusiastic about playing in what would become Casino Royale. However throughout late 2004/early 2005 it was well thought that he would not be continuing in his role as the British secret agent. Consequently the hunt was on to find a new younger actor to star in a much grittier Bond film. Many actors were considered, or wanted to play the famous role, but eventually this was given to Daniel Craig in October 2005.

The casting of Daniel Craig as James Bond brought about a controversy not seen for many years. Many fans, the media and critics all picked holes at the casting choice with many headlines and rumours circulating from the start all the way through production. With the future of the Bond series of Craig’s shoulders, the 4 year gap from the last Bond film, and the increasingly negativetivity from the media, the pressure was certainly on – could Craig pull it off?

The answer to that is most definitely. Emerging like a beacon from the darkness, Daniel Craig’s performance as Bond blows away fans and critics alike providing a much-needed boost to the Bond series. The new ‘reboot’ of the Bond series allows Craig to portray the world’s most famous secret agent in a completely new and refreshing way. With previous films genuine suspense, fear and helplessness were rare. It was expected that Bond could deal with any situation he faced in a smooth way. Not so in Casino Royale where Craig rolls up his sleeves and gets right in the heart of the action.

Starting at the beginning of the series, as Bond earns his 00 status, the casting of Craig is indeed an excellent choice. Gone are the smooth one-liners, double entrendes and innuendoes. In come Craig’s raw toughness, vulnerability and icy steeliness. There are numerous scenes where there are close-ups of his piercing cold blue eyes and rough exterior. It’s a welcome return to the days of Sean Connery, with danger and unpredictability aplenty.

With Daniel Craig doing a lot of his own stunts, his shear presence and edgy persona, you can really believe in the character he’s portraying. Whether he’s chasing terrorists through building sites, involved in nasty punch-ups or being tortured in a most unpleasant way, you feel and believe his pain. The slower character building scenes are also excellently played with even the occasional one-liner and comedic elements delivered with a rough aplomb. No doubt Craig’s future performances will be just as energising to the series, as audiences get used to a new Bond, James Bond. §