Connery and Everyone Else

I have recently heard arguments that the new James Bond (Daniel Craig) is just as good, maybe even better than the original Bond (Sean Connery). I say, it is a bit presumptuous to make such a statement after only one performance. The performance was good nevertheless, Casino Royale was fantastic.

I went a little old school tonight, watching From Russia With Love starring Sean Connery. The tricks in the older bond films may be less dramatic and daring but they still have a similar effect. In a way, they are just as entertaining. What is exceptional about the Connery series is the superb story line (the original Bond films were based on Ian Flemming's novels. The newer films, notably Pierce Brosnan and after, were all new scripts) and an increased concentration on the characters.

Connery is fun to watch. He comes across as suave, something his predecessor had a hard time imitating (Peter Sellers played James Bond in the 1967 Casino Royale). Even a few of his successors did not quite get it right. His relaxed demeanor is something I admire, always staying cool under pressure. There is no over-dramatic acting, every action seems to hold the same expression. Whether he is having a conversation with a beautiful woman, a fellow agent, or a murderer, he remains cool under pressure and is able to think constructively, uninhibited by fear, anger, or other emotions.

This is who James Bond is. If Daniel Craig can continue this trend then I do say he will be remembered.