‘Quantum of Solace’ Star Gemma Arterton Says James Bond Should Always Be Male

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As a film enthusiast with decades of cinematic experiences under my belt, I must say that the debate surrounding the gender of James Bond is as intriguing as it is divisive. Having had the privilege of watching Gemma Arterton grace our screens as Strawberry Fields in Quantum of Solace, I can attest to her undeniable charm and talent. However, when it comes to the future of 007, I find myself siding with tradition, much like Miss Arterton herself.

The debate over whether the next James Bond should break from tradition and give the leading role to a female actress rages on, and Gemma Arterton recently weighed in with her own opinion. Arterton is no stranger to the world of James Bond. The English actress played Bond Girl (which in itself is an outdated concept), Strawberry Fields, in Quantum of Solace, Daniel Craig’s second outing as 007. Some believe it is time for the franchise to move on from tradition, and open up the possibilities of the character. Meanwhile, others believe that James Bond was, is, and always should be male, as it is a cinematic tradition. Gemma Arterton falls into the traditionalist camp.

Reflecting on my time in Quantum of Solace and the future of James Bond, I was asked by The Times about the possibility of a female Bond. To me, it’s like suggesting a man take on Mary Poppins – something that might be discussed, but ultimately seems too far-fetched. Just as saying ‘Macbeth’ in a theater or focusing on feet in a Quentin Tarantino film might disrupt tradition, James Bond has been, and perhaps should always be, a male character.

“Sometimes you just have to respect the tradition.”

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, I must confess that while I’m unwavering about James Bond’s future, I admit there’s a bit of perplexity regarding his past. In reference to my role in Quantum of Solace, I’d say I don’t have a single ounce of regret for being part of the Bond universe. This movie, despite a divide among fans and critics, was a blockbuster hit, with Daniel Craig’s performance as Bond taking center stage. The film also showcased outstanding performances from Olga Kurylenko, Mathieru Amalric, Judi Dench, Jeffrey Wright, and David Harbour. As for my character Strawberry, I gave it my all, even though my screen time was limited.

“I am perplexed why it has followed me around. I was only in the film for five minutes.“

Daniel Craig Doesn’t Care About the Future of James Bond

Although Gemma Arterton expresses strong opinions on the future of James Bond in movies, Daniel Craig himself appears uninterested, having played the iconic role seven times and often being a top pick alongside Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Pierce Brosnan. In almost every interview, Craig is asked about Bond, yet his responses suggest growing indifference to these questions. During an interview promoting his upcoming film “Queer”, Craig was quizzed about the idea of a gay James Bond, which elicited a weary eye roll from him.

It appears that Daniel Craig relished portraying James Bond just as much as he appreciates discussing it. The renowned British actor has lately shared his struggles during his time as 007, expressing anxiety. He confessed to isolating himself at home and feeling on edge, noting that there were valid reasons for this. However, the future of James Bond is still up in the air, with no definitive successor announced yet. Among the top contenders among fans are Henry Cavill, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, John Boyega, Aaron Pierre, and more recently, Paul Mescal.

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2024-12-12 01:02