The general reception of Daniel Craig as the new bond in Casino Royale was positive and enthusiastic, and, in spite of the general air of disappointment that seemed to haunt Quantum of Solace, enthusiasm for Craig‘s work in the role remains high. As such, it is not surprising and also not unwelcome news that Craig has been offered a multi-million dollar deal to carry the mantle of the world’s most famous spy for at least five more films. According to People, producer Michael G. Wilson confirmed the news, which would make Craig the longest-serving Bond actor of all time.
Wilson went on to say that Craig was “a film maker’s dream” and that the filming of the new 007 film, Skyfall, has been going very well so far. Speaking in more detail about the film, the twenty-third in the franchise’s history, Wilson dropped some information that ought to ameliorate the concerns of those who questioned the wisdom in hiring director Sam Mendes, who is better known for his suburban melodramas like American Beauty or Revolutionary Road than action films. “The director Sam Mendes and Daniel [Craig] are taking it back to a 60s feel – more Sean [Connery]. I think that’s what the fans wanted. ” Even more exciting is the direct parallel he draws to another fan-favorite Bond film. “There’s a magical Goldfinger feel surrounding it all…I can’t wait for people to see the movie because I think we’re making a very special Bond.”
All of this is pretty great news after a period of intense doubt regarding the future of the franchise following the bankruptcy of MGM and the subsequent languishing of production on Skyfall. Luckily, Bond fans who have been impatiently awaiting the arrival of the newest film won’t have to wait much longer, as Skyfall, which co-stars Javier Bardem, Ralph Fiennes, and Naomie Harris, is set for stateside on November 9, 2012 after bowing in the UK on October 26.
How do you feel about this news? Will a return to classic form be a welcome change? Is Craig worthy of becoming the most prolific Bond?