Helen Mirren has expressed her strong opinion that James Bond should never be portrayed by a woman, citing the franchise’s origins in “profound sexism.” This viewpoint enters the limelight as Amazon MGM Studios secures a $1 billion deal, granting them creative control over the iconic 007 character with Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the heirs to the film producer Albert “Cubby” Broccoli’s legacy. The decision about whether the suave British spy could undergo significant changes, including casting considerations, remains undecided.
Mirren, in conversation with the Standard, emphasized her disinterest in the Bond series, despite being an avid admirer of her “MobLand” co-star, and former Bond actor, Pierce Brosnan. She conveyed that while she was impressed by Brosnan’s performance and persona, she found the portrayal of women in the James Bond films unappealing. “I have to say I was never a great ward [of Bond]. I’m a huge fan of Pierce Brosnan, I mean massive fan. I mean, oh my God. Obviously, he’s gorgeous and everything, and I think he’s fabulous in MobLand, but he also happens to be one of the nicest people you’ll ever have the pleasure to work with. And indeed Daniel Craig, who I’ve met and know a little bit, again – a very lovely, gracious person,” she stated.
Despite her admiration for individual actors, Mirren maintained that the series as a whole did not resonate with her. She criticized the treatment of female roles within the films and expressed resistance to the idea of countering Bond’s historical sexism by casting a woman in the titular role. “The whole series of James Bond, it was not my thing. It really wasn’t. I never liked James Bond. I never liked the way women were in James Bond,” Mirren remarked, adding that she preferred to highlight the contributions of real female spies whose courage and bravery paint a truer picture of women’s roles in espionage.
Amazon’s recent acquisition has shifted focus onto Bond’s future portrayal, with discussions centering not only on gender but also on the agent’s British identity. Despite the American ownership, Pierce Brosnan has previously asserted that Bond should retain his British origin, a sentiment echoed by Timothy Dalton who expressed disappointment over potential changes. Brosnan and other former Bond actors have voiced concerns over safeguarding the story’s authenticity in the wake of potential modifications under new management.
The acquisition of creative control by Amazon means they can explore new avenues for the franchise, including potential spin-offs, without the need for approval from Broccoli and Wilson, who have traditionally overseen the character’s development. Reports indicate internal disagreements have emerged over the direction Amazon might take, with fierce debates reportedly culminating in Broccoli referring to Amazon executives as “fucking idiots” over their enthusiasm for expanding the franchise with spin-offs and a potential TV series.
Facing this turning point, the potential direction for Bond is charged with both excitement and apprehension. With no current script, director, or lead actor announced for a new film, speculation is rife regarding who will next embody the iconic character. Names like Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, and James Norton are among the frontrunners. Furthermore, reports from Mail Online suggest that any future Bond must be British or from the Commonwealth, and importantly, male.
Helen Mirren’s reflections open up discussions about sexism and gender roles in cinema, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and traditionalism versus modernization within film franchises. Her perspective adds depth to the ongoing debate, underlining the significant impact this creative crossroads could have on the beloved 007 series. The decisions made now will likely influence the spy narrative and its legacy for years to come, maintaining Bond’s revered status while potentially redefining elements of its classic story in response to evolving societal norms.
