Spectre’s Monica Bellucci Initially Anticipated Playing A Very Different James Bond Role, And I Could Get Behind This Alternative As A 007 Fan

As a lifelong Bond enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of the franchise across generations, I can wholeheartedly say that Monica Bellucci‘s unexpected encounter with the world of 007 remains one of my favorite stories. Her tale takes me back to the days when I was glued to our black-and-white TV, eagerly awaiting the next Bond adventure.


As fans gear up for Monica Bellucci’s mesmerizing portrayal as a villain in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” her upcoming film schedule has also prompted some reflection. Naturally, someone inquired about her involvement in the James Bond series, stemming from her role in “Spectre.

Surprisingly, it was this line of inquiry that uncovered an alternate position the Matrix actress believed she was being considered for. Being a James Bond enthusiast, I can definitely envision this alternative role working out, and there’s still time to bring it to life.

The Alternate Spectre Role that Monica Bellucci Expected To Be Offered

During an interview with Vanity Fair to publicize Beetlejuice 2, Monica Bellucci recounted a heartwarming tale about not anticipating being pursued for the role of a Bond Girl. As you’ll soon discover, it didn’t take long for director Sam Mendes’ plans to become clear. For now, though, let’s delve into who Bellucci believed she would portray instead:

Many actresses secretly yearn for the chance to star in a Bond film. Quite amusingly, my agent phoned me one day and said, ‘Monica, would you like a good laugh? Sam Mendes wants to discuss James Bond with you.’ Since I was 50 at that time, I asked, ‘He wants to meet me for M?’… If given the opportunity, I would have been thrilled to portray M, as I hold Dame Judi Dench in high esteem. However, he clarified that he wanted to meet me for a role as a James Bond girl, Donna Lucia Sciarra. This would make me the oldest ‘Bond Girl’ ever.

Discovering details about Monica Bellucci’s selection as Spectre’s Bond Girl brings a sense of validation for her past endeavors with the iconic film series, which is now known due to previous statements by 007 alum Colin Salmon. It appears that Bellucci had attempted to secure a role as a Bond Girl not just once but twice in separate films featuring Pierce Brosnan’s James Bond character.

In time, the actor from “Brotherhood of the Wolf” found another distinctive method to etch a slice of 007 history, as opportunities before didn’t work out. As she delved deeper into the significance of Spectre for her, Monica Bellucci highlighted her exclusive role in the EON Productions tale by saying:

For me, starring in the movie at my age felt like making a groundbreaking statement. This role was particularly innovative as it presented a mature woman in close proximity to James Bond, something that hadn’t been seen frequently before. Additionally, Daniel Craig being younger than me in real life further emphasizes this shift, signifying a new era where women are increasingly influential in society.

Daniel Craig’s Bond films were filled with notable instances, and casting Monica Bellucci as a Bond Girl was one of the more forward-thinking decisions. To put it respectfully, age should not hinder a pair that looks just as stunning on screen together, as this duo from ‘Spectre’ demonstrated in their memorable scene. Moreover, the idea of Bellucci portraying a M variant could have blazed a trail in the realm of Ian Fleming’s timeless characters, offering a fresh perspective.

Monica Bellucci Would Still Make A Fantastic M For Bond 26

As we anticipate further developments regarding “Bond 26”, the crucial matter of who will assume the role of M is a topic worth pondering. With this in mind, I don’t believe it would be premature to consider Monica Bellucci for the position of the new intelligence head that oversees Commander Bond.

It certainly isn’t the first time an actor would have played two different roles in the 007 legacy, so let’s just sweep that concern out of the way here and now. In addition, it doesn’t look likely that any of the MI6 family from Daniel Craig’s James Bond era will be returning to their posts.

If we’re planning a new beginning, Monica Bellucci as M could add an exciting twist to a hypothetical Moneypenny played by Olivia Colman. This idea would come into play if Naomie Harris’ desires were realized. Additionally, the strong-willed personality of Bellucci would balance well with Colman’s knack for mischief.

At present, the future of James Bond is temporarily uncertain, so we’re on the lookout for any hints about what lies ahead. Monica Bellucci’s thoughts on being a Bond Girl serve as a strong indication that there are still significant stories to tell in this franchise. Furthermore, it also strengthens the argument for why appointing her as the first Bond Girl to become ‘M’ could be another exciting first step.

For anyone eager to revisit the world of Spectre, you can now stream the movie by subscribing to Prime Video. Meanwhile, fans of Monica Bellucci will have a chance to witness her haunting the Afterlife in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which is currently playing in cinemas.

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2024-09-08 18:08