Is It Time for a Return to the Lighthearted Bond Films of the 60s and 70s?

With Daniel Craig officially stepping down as James Bond, it's natural to consider the evolution of the character and the kind of films that should shape his future.

The Dark, Ruthless Bond

It's clear that Craig and his predecessors James Bond brought a more serious and brooding edge to the character. Whether it's Craig's license to kill or Connery's stone cold killer qualities, the darker side of Bond is a defining aspect of the role.

The Lighthearted Bond of the 60s and 70s

Contrary to popular belief, the 1960s and 1970s James Bond films were not particularly lighthearted. Sean Connery's wit was more often found in clever quips and pun lines, such as his famous line, "You can't drink Dom Perignon at the wrong temperature—it would be like listening to the Beatles without earmuffs," during the 1964 film Goldfinger. Even George Lazenby, in his sole Bond film, had some humorous lines, though not in the typical "lighthearted" sense.

Roger Moore's Humorous Bonds

During the 1970s and 1980s, as seen through Roger Moore's tenure, the Bond character became more comedic. Moore's Bond was more about playing for laughs, often appearing more like a celebrity in fine hotels and casinos rather than a serious secret agent. This shift towards humor was a significant departure from the more sophisticated Bond of the Connery era.

Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan's Serious Bonds

Both Timothy Dalton and Pierce Brosnan played their Bonds with a more serious tone. Dalton's preparation involved reading Ian Fleming's novels, bringing a depth and gravitas to the character. Brosnan, on the other hand, brought more humor, particularly in the silliness of his storylines, such as "surfing" a tsunami or an invisible car.

Should We Return to the Lighthearted Bond?

A return to the lighthearted Bond of the 60s and 70s might not be ideal. While the quips and one-liners were present, the films often maintained a serious tone. If a new Bond is to be "rebooted," it might beneficial to strike a balance. A mix of quips from Connery and the gravitas from Dalton could create a more enjoyable and relatable Bond character.

Humorous Moments in Recent Bond Films

Despite the darker tone of recent films, there have been many humorous moments, predominantly in the dialogue:

Casino Royale: “How was your lamb” “Skewered. One sympathizes.” Quantum of Solace: “Hello. We are teachers on sabbatical and we have just won the lottery.” Skyfall: “Before they let you back out there warn me first.”

In conclusion, while a new Bond film should maintain an enjoyable and entertaining tone, it should also reflect the essence of Ian Fleming's character. If 007 continues to lament over his career, the audience might not react well. Let's hope the new Bond will also enjoy the drinks, fine dining, and exotic locations, just as audiences did during the Sean Connery era.