The spy who birthed me

Are you a big James Bond fan? Then you may be interested in the four-part miniseries that chronicles the life of Ian Fleming, the author of the 007 novels that is set to air on BBC America this January. Here's a trailer to show you what you can expect to see.

James Bond's greatest victory

From comingsoon.net:

The long-running battle between Kevin McClory and his estate with MGM and Danjaq, who own the rights to James Bond and related characters, is finally over after fifty years with MGM able to acquire the rights to the 007 franchise that had been held by McClory, who helped come up with the story for Thunderball with creator Ian Fleming. In the process of doing so, McClory has claimed that he created many of the iconic characters from the world of James Bond, presumably Blofeld and SPECTRE, who would appear in successive movies following that.

The lawsuits started flying in 1961 when McClory sued Fleming and received partial copyright to Thunderball that allowed him to remake it with Sean Connery in 1983 under the title Never Say Never Again. Neither MGM nor EON Productions have ever included that movie in any of the many James Bond box sets, considering it to take place outside of canon. Sony tried buying the rights from McClory and were promptly sued by MGM and McClory and his estate continued to be a problem for MGM and Danjaq over the years.

What could this mean for the future of the James Bond franchise? Well, for one thing, Danjaq's production division EON Productions could now theoretically introduce a new Ernst Stavro Blofeld or reintroduce SPECTRE after having created the crime organization "Quantum" for the Daniel Craig reboot Casino Royale.

No details of the settlement or the amount paid have been released.

Forging a new Bond

Big news regarding the next installment in the James Bond franchise...

From comingsoon.net:

Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, EON Productions; Gary Barber, Chairman & CEO, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer; Michael Lynton, CEO, Sony Entertainment, Inc, and Amy Pascal, Co-Chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment today announced that Daniel Craig will once again return as the legendary British secret agent in the 24th James Bond film and Sam Mendes will also return to direct the screenplay written by John Logan. The film is set for release in UK theaters on October 23, 2015 and in US theaters on November 6, 2015 (currently the same date as Ant-Man and Peanuts).

Skyfall, the 23rd James Bond film, took in $1.1 billion worldwide and set a new mark as the highest-grossing film of all time in the UK; it was the best-selling Bond film on DVD/Blu-ray and was the most critically acclaimed film in the history of the longest-running film franchise.

Commenting on the announcement, Wilson and Broccoli said, "Following the extraordinary success of 'Skyfall,' we're really excited to be working once again with Daniel Craig, Sam Mendes and John Logan.

"I am very pleased that by giving me the time I need to honour all my theatre commitments, the producers have made it possible for me to direct 'Bond 24.' I very much look forward to taking up the reins again, and to working with Daniel Craig, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for a second time, said Mendes.

Barber added, We are thrilled to reunite the extraordinary talents of director Sam Mendes with our star Daniel Craig for the next great Bond adventure. He added, "As evidenced by the phenomenal success of our last collaboration with EON Productions and Sony, the incredible legacy of this 51-year-old franchise continues to amaze."

Lynton and Pascal said, "It's a privilege to work on the Bond films. EON, John Logan and Sam Mendes have come up with an extraordinary follow up to 'Skyfall' and we, along with our partners at MGM, can't wait to share this new chapter with audiences all over the world."

'Bond 24' update

From Reuters:

Movie studio MGM said on Tuesday it expects to release the next James Bond movie within three years, and hopes to announce soon a new director after Sam Mendes decided to move on.

In a conference call with investors, MGM Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Gary Barber said the studio was developing the screenplay for the next, 24th movie in the 50-year-old franchise about the British secret agent.

"We are very excited about the franchise, we look forward to announcing a director soon," Barber said.

"We are currently developing the screenplay and working with our partners. We look forward to developing the script soon and signing a director. We are hoping within the next 3 years it will be released," Barber added.

He gave no details on casting but Daniel Craig has already signed on for two more films in the lead role as the suave 007 agent.

The 2012 Bond film "Skyfall," starring Craig, made $1.1 billion at the global box office and impressed critics. But Britain's Mendes said earlier this month that he wanted to focus on his theater projects for the foreseeable future.

Barber said Mendes "did an amazing job on 'Skyfall'. We are very thankful for the work that he did."

Privately-held MGM jointly produced "Skyfall" with Sony Corp's movie studio arm.

MGM said on Monday that "Skyfall" and "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" had helped bring a three-fold increase in its 2012 net income.

Sam won't play it again

From EW.com:

Despite Skyfall being the most commercially successful James Bond movie ever, director Sam Mendes won’t be returning for Bond’s next go-round.

Mendes’ rep confirmed the director’s statement in Empire magazine, which explains that he will not direct James Bond’s 24th adventure.

“It has been a very difficult decision not to accept Michael [G. Wilson] and Barbara [Broccoli]’s very generous offer to direct the next Bond movie,” Mendes said. “Directing Skyfall was one of the best experiences of my professional life, but I have theatre and other commitments, including productions of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and King Lear, that need my complete focus over the next year and beyond.”

But while Mendes said he won’t be directing 007′s next picture, he didn’t rule out a return to the franchise later on. “I feel very honoured to have been part of the Bond family,” said Mendes, “and very much hope I have a chance to work with them again sometime in the future.”

NMR: Everything or Nothing

Prior to the release of Skyfall last November, a documentary was released celebrating the world of James Bond in honor of the film franchise's 50th anniversary. The documentary is now available on Netflix Instant View which enables me a chance to finally see it. Given that this documentary did not receive a lot of fanfare or even a theatrical release made me worried that it would either be hatchet job or look cheap. Thankfully neither are true. I actually loved this depiction. While I certainly knew a lot of the information, I was pleasantly surprised that it did give insight into the franchise that I was not previously familiar with. It goes into a lot of detail about Albert Broccoli, the producer of the Bond films and his often contentious relationships with others associated with the films. We also get some insight from the various men who have played Bond. One of the things that struck me about their comments is that each of them, regardless of how long or successful their tenure was as 007 absolutely loved playing the role. You could tell that for each of them, this was more than just an acting job. The success of these films is nothing short of spectacular and you truly get a sense while watching this film as to how they've managed to keep the franchise alive all these years. Some of it was luck, but it also took a lot of talented people with a devotion to this character to constantly being driven to wanting to always make the best film possible. While Bond fans should absolutely check this out, I do think that those who don't care much for the series would still find the film interesting as well. Not too many franchises can say they've been around for a half century, so why not check out what make this one so unique. Rating: *****

Skyfall? More like windfall!

From EW.com

It’s official — we have reached the era of the billion dollar Bond!

Sony announced today that Skyfall has surpassed the $1 billion mark at the global box office, becoming just the 14th film in history to reach the coveted milestone.

The 23rd entry in the James Bond series has shattered every record in the franchise’s 50-year history. Skyfall, which was produced by MGM, EON Productions, and Sony for $200 million, has earned $289.6 million in North America alone (including $4.6 million this weekend), clobbering the domestic record set by Quantum of Solace, which earned $168.4 million in 2008.

Internationally, Skyfall has been even more impressive. The film has amassed a jaw-dropping $710.6 million global haul, and it hasn’t even been released in China yet. (That’s slated for early 2013.) Not surprisingly, the film’s strongest market has been the U.K., where it has quickly become the highest-grossing film of all time and the first film to ever pass £100 million.

Remarkably, even if Skyfall‘s domestic grosses weren’t counted, its international tally would still make it the highest grossing Bond film of all time worldwide. The previous global high-point for a James Bond film was Casino Royale’s $599 million gross in 2006. Yep, Skyfall has earned over $400 million more than that.

Fool's Gold

I try to pride myself on being a Bond expert, but apparently there was a "lost" James Bond film that is now only coming to the light of day. From Funny or Die, I present to you To Have and To Gold

Lost Bond Film with Chris Kattan from Chris Kattan

Falling upward

There are other movies I have yet to review, but there was no way I was going to wait on this one. Waiting it seems is all I have been doing when it comes to James Bond lately. Fans like myself have eagerly anticipated the 23rd film, Skyfall. At the very least, we've been waiting at least four years since Quantum of Solace, but given the failures of that film, it's felt even longer since we've had a true Bond film.

Since taking over as 007, the Daniel Craig era has been a time of transition. Beginning with Casino Royale the origins of Bond and how he became the spy we've come to know have been developed. In this latest film, which also marks the 50th anniversary of the film franchise, there are questions as to the relevancy of this man. Has James Bond become too old or out of date in a new world of terror and threats? I think it's clear by the end of the film that while there is always a need for adapting to changing times, there is also something timeless about this character that is not only capable of still saving the world by giving audiences what they want.

As I mentioned earlier, the last film was a disaster in many ways, so I had a checklist of items that I wanted to see in this film in order for me to be satisfied that this franchise wasn't in trouble. Thankfully practically all of those items were accomplished. For example, Daniel Kleinman was brought back to create a proper title sequence after the visual eyesore that was seen in the previous movie. We also have a more traditional title song which actually includes the title in it thanks to British songstress Adele. And we also begin to see some longtime characters receive re-introductions. Ben Wishaw gives us a fresh take on Q, the man responsible for all of Bond's gadgets. I liked the back-and-forth he and Craig have in this film and while no one could ever replace the great Desmond LLewelyn, I look forward to see this Q in many more films to come.

Now in his third try, Craig gives his most comfortable and developed performance to date as Bond. He seems to have a clear sense of what he wants to do with the character. His take is uniquely his own while still being respectful of the character and the men who have played him before. While there's always going to be that damaged aspect of his character, I was so pleased to see him infuse more humor into the performance as well as reignite his appetite for women after pining over just one for the past two films

While Craig has a standout performance, this film is as much about M (Judi Dench) as it is about Bond. Her character, and mi6 as a whole come under heavy scrutiny after a hard drive containing a list of all agents, their current locations and real names is stolen. The amazing Ralph Finnes plays Mallory, a man who's asked to watch over M and help her clean up this mess.

We learn that the man responsible for the stole hard drive is a former agent named Silva, played by Bardem. Bardem, who won an Oscar playing the villanous Anton Chigurh in No Country for Old Men, creates a wholly different, yet still highly memorable bad guy here. He's equal parts crafty and creepy. The monologue he delivers upon first meeting Bond is one of the best scenes in the entire film.

There are several great scenes in this film though thanks largely to the great direction by Sam Mendes. He, along with cinematographer Roger Deakins, give us one of the most beautiful Bond movies ever. The use of rich colors, beautiful landscapes, and well choreographed action scenes make this film a visual delight. I would gladly have Mendes return for another entry if he's interested (Just as long as they never contact Marc Forster ever again).

If I have a complain about this film, it is that at times it does not necessarily feel like a Bond film. For instance, the story is rather insular. The villain's attacks are aimed at mi6 rather than toward the world at large. It doesn't really feel like Bond is saving the world this time. Also, the franchise still feels compelled to thematically and narratively borrow from other franchises. Not only are there traces of the Bourne franchise again, but this time I also felt that they were trying to replicate the success of The Dark Knight. Certainly there is worse material that they could be borrowing from, but with that said, I'd still like for them to be confident in their own franchise and stay true to what has made them successful for so many years.

I think most importantly is that the film has a terrific finish that is not only moving but without giving too much away, puts some key pieces in place that ends this transition stage and allows Bond to finally get back to business. The final scenes have me extremely excited for the next installment. Thankfully, we know that 'James Bond will return' and this time it will only be a two year wait.

Skyfall is a must see for both Bond fans and novices alike. For the purists, this is a great installment that more than makes up for Quantum of Solace and for the newbies out there, this works equally as well as a straightforward action flick that is likely to send your adrenaline soaring Sky high. Grade: A-

Bond countdown: The Man With The Golden Gun (1975)

Bond countdown: Live and Let Die (1973)

Some Bond Like You

We got confirmation today of something that had been widely speculated for months now - British songstress Adele will be performing the theme song for Skyfall. Here's more on the story from showbiz411.com:

I think I can confirm for you what I said some months ago–Adele is performing the theme song for “Skyfall,” the 23rd James Bond movie. As far as I know the song is called “Skyfall.” I think if anyone else had sung the theme song this year it wouldn’t have made sense. Adele’s sound is the quintessential James Bond sound. She joins Shirley Bassey, Paul McCartney, Carly Simon, Rita Coolidge, John Barry, Duran Duran and others on the long list of pop stars who’ve immortalized James Bond in song.

“Skyfall” will be Adele’s first new single since her album “21″ sold 7 billion copies in 13 different galaxies. The movie opens in London the last week of October, right when Adele will give birth to a baby, as well. The good news is, this should be an actual song with a melody and a hook, unlike recent tortures.

Bond countdown: On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969)

After some technical difficulties, I'm starting my James Bond retrospectives back up again. In order to get through all of them before Skyfall comes out, I'll be aiming to do about 2 a week, so check back frequently for more retrospectives over the next couple of months.

2012 Fall Movie Preview (November)

FLIGHT (November 2)
Plot: "Flight" tells the redemption story of "Whip" (Washington), a commercial airline pilot who pulls off a heroic feat of flying in a damaged plane, saving 98 lives on a flight carrying 106 people. While the world begs to embrace him as a true American Hero, the everyman struggles with this label as he is forced to hold up to the scrutiny of an investigation that brings into question his behavior the night before the doomed flight.

Quick thoughts: There are few people who have as consistent of a track record when it comes to good films as Denzel Washington, so I would expect nothing less here again. As usual he's chosen a film with a storyline that feels both fresh and familiar. As an added bonus, this marks director Robert Zemeckis' first effort behind the camera for a live action movie since 2000's Cast Away - another film that I loved. If it doesn't quite get up to the level of Oscar contender, I have no doubt it'll at leas serve as solid entertainment.


LINCOLN (November 9)
Plot: Steven Spielberg directs two-time Academy Award winner Daniel Day-Lewis in "Lincoln," a revealing drama that focuses on the 16th President's tumultuous final months in office. In a nation divided by war and the strong winds of change, Lincoln pursues a course of action designed to end the war, unite the country and abolish slavery. With the moral courage and fierce determination to succeed, his choices during this critical moment will change the fate of generations to come.

Quick thoughts: Unlike Flight, this one has all sorts of crazy high expectations when it comes to the awards season. You have Daniel Day Lewis completely transforming himself into the role of Honest Abe. Plus you have Steven Spielberg going back to his sweet spot of the historical genre. I'm sure some will be bored by the subject material, but I can't wait to be riveted.


SKYFALL (November 9)
Plot: Daniel Craig is back as Ian Fleming's James Bond 007 in "Skyfall," the 23rd adventure in the longest-running film franchise of all time. In "Skyfall," Bond's loyalty to M is tested as her past comes back to haunt her. As MI6 comes under attack, 007 must track down and destroy the threat, no matter how personal the cost.

Quick thoughts: Do I really need to say anything here? It should be pretty obvious at this point, that I'm dying to see this film. These last two months before its release will feel painstakingly long, but I know it will be worth it. Thankfully I've got all the previous 22 films to help me through the wait.


WRECK-IT RALPH (November 2)
Plot: Walt Disney Animation Studios take moviegoers on a hilarious, arcade-game-hopping journey in "Wreck-It Ralph." Ralph (voice of John C. Reilly) is tired of being overshadowed by Fix-It Felix (voice of Jack McBrayer), the "good guy" star of their game who always gets to save the day. But after decades doing the same thing and seeing all the glory go to Felix, Ralph decides he's tired of playing the role of a bad guy. He takes matters into his own massive hands and sets off on a game-hopping journey across the arcade through every generation of video games to prove he's got what it takes to be a hero.

Quick thoughts: Disney cartoons that are not made by Pixar can often be hit or miss. Having said that, they certainly have a unique hook to the story they're trying to tell here by having it set within the world of arcade games. If the film is intelligent and appeal to adults and kids alike, then this could be a major winner at the box office.


OTHER POSSIBLE FILMS OF INTEREST
Anna Karenina (November 16)
Life of Pi (November 21)
Rise of the Guardians (November 21)
Silver Linings Playbook (November 21)

Doc-topussy

From comingsoon.net:

MGM, Columbia Pictures, Passion Pictures and Red Box Films announced today their new feature documentary Everything or Nothing: The Untold Story of 007 directed by Stevan Riley (Fire in Babylon), produced by John Battsek (One Day in September, The Tillman Story) and Simon Chinn (Man on Wire, Project Nim) to coincide with the 50th anniversary of James Bond films on October 5. Country specific release plans to be announced shortly.

"Everything or Nothing" focuses on three men with a shared dream: Bond producers Albert R. Broccoli, Harry Saltzman and author Ian Fleming. It's the thrilling and inspiring narrative behind the longest running film franchise in cinema history which began in 1962. With unprecedented access both to the key players involved and to Eon Productions' extensive archive, this is the first time the inside story of the franchise has ever been told on screen in this way.

Director Stevan Riley follows a story that begins with a ground-breaking spy thriller and continues six Bonds and five decades later. While Bond was saving the world from chaos and catastrophe on screen, this compelling documentary draws back the curtain to reveal the battles, threats and real stakes unfolding behind the camera.

Sky high

In the meantime while you're waiting on my next James Bond retrospective, you can enjoy the latest trailer for Skyfall, which looks AMAZING. It's becoming increasingly difficult to contain my excitement for this film.

Broken Bond

Wanted to put a quick note here...I haven't forgotten about my James Bond retrospectives. I learned that the service I was using to create them (VoiceThread) only allows users the ability to create 5 presentations for free and then you have to pay for a membership. I'd like to avoid that if I can, so in the meantime I'm trying to find a new way, aside from a purely textual one, to do them. Hopefully I'll come up with a solution soon. But until then, just hang tight. As they say, James Bond Will Return!

Bond countdown: You Only Live Twice (1967)

Bond countdown: Thunderball (1965)

I'm hoping these will begin getting posted with more regularity again. Here's my take on Thunderball from 1965.

Bond Countdown: Goldfinger (1964)