Latest news with #DrNo
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sean Connery as 007: 12 Behind the Scenes Images of Bond at His Best
Here are 12 behind the scenes photos of Sean Connery — the first and best James Bond, aka 007 — to appear in films. From his debut in Dr. No to his surprise return in Never Say Never Again, Connery personified Ian Fleming's dashing, wry super secret agent and set the standard for all James Bond actors to come. Here are the behind the scenes images of Sean Connery's 007. Related Headlines Lisa Dahl: Blessed by Grace Recounts a Mother's Journey From Tragedy to Nourishing Others To Make 'Toots,' My Sensitive Film About Aging, I Needed the Perfect Fart Noise 11 Shameless 2000s Comedies That Just Don't Care If You're Offended A Working-Class Spy Nicholas Shakespeare's excellent new biography Ian Fleming: The Complete Man investigates the author who created James Bond — but also recounts the casting of Sean Connery in the role. Shakespeare notes: "Connery's background – naval boxer, lifeguard, art class model – was a marketable asset. He was brought up in a Scottish slum, like Ian's grandfather. His father was a truck driver, his mother a cleaning lady." He adds: "Among choice biographical details: He had delivered milk to Bond's second school Fettes, and acted at the Oxford Playhouse as an aristocratic diplomat in Pirandello's Naked. Above, that's Fleming, left, with Connery, right, on the set of the first Bond movie, 1962's Dr. No. The Right Man for the Job? Shakespeare's book notes that according to Fleming's film agent, Robert Fenn, Fleming was initially shocked because Connery "couldn't speak the Queen's English. Fleming said, 'He's not my idea of Bond at all, I just want an elegant man, not this roughneck.'' Later, according to the book, Fleming would call Connery an 'over-developed stuntman' and wonder if he had 'the social graces' to play his hero. Above, Connery is fitted for 1962's From Russia With Love. License to Kill Fleming, obviously, needed a woman's perspective. His friend Ivar Bryce's cousin, Janet Milford Haven, was known as a good judge of people — and men — and offered her input after a lunch with Fleming and Connery. Her opinion of Connery? 'I said, 'I think that fellow is divine. He's not too good-looking, he looks masculine, he looks like a proper man and one that would be used to that life. He looks like he is very clever, he looks like he would know how to do everything, who could kill,'' said Haven, according to Shakespeare's book. Above: Connery and Shirley Eaton in Goldfinger. A Real Charmer Shakespeare writes that Fleming finally became convinced that Connery was the right Bond, writing to his muse and mistress, Blanche Blackwell: 'the man they have chosen for Bond, Sean Connery, is a real charmer – fairly unknown but a good actor with the right looks and physique.' Above: Sean Connery with Ursula Andress and Fleming in a publicity image for Dr. No. Athleticism Whether or not he was an "over-developed stuntman," Connery's athleticism was a key component of his success as 007. Above, he cavorts on a Jamaican beach with Ursula Andress, who played Honey Ryder in Dr. No. Here are 13 Behind the Scenes Images of Ursula Andress in Dr. No. Chemistry His chemistry with Andress on Dr. No was a huge part of the first Bond film's success, and would provide a template for Bond's dynamics with legions of future "Bond girls." The chemistry came through even though Andress' voice was dubbed for the role. (Andress' languages include French, German, and Italian, but her English was accented.) "He was very protective towards me, he was adorable, fantastic," Andress said in a 2020 interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera after Connery's death at 90. "He adored women, He was undoubtedly very much a man.'' Friends Andress, who was married to John Derek while making Dr. No, added of Connery in the Corriere della Sera interview: 'We spent many evenings together and he would invite me everywhere, Monte Carlo, London, New York, from when we met until now we always remained friends. Friends, friends.'" Good as Gold Connery played Bond in seven films in all. What's the best? For our money, it's 1964's Goldfinger, in which Connery starred opposite Honor Blackman as Pussy Galore. Above, they rehearse an infamous scene that, let's admit, has aged badly. Here Are 12 Behind the Scenes Images From Goldfinger. Shakespeare While later Bond actors would lean into the campier aspects of the character, Connery played him seriously. He once said that 'portraying Bond is just as serious as playing Macbeth on stage,' according to Shakespeare. (Ian, not William.) Above: Connery enjoys some downtime on the set of 1965's Thunderball. Buoyant Despite his serious approach to the role, Connery had just the right mix of seriousness and levity to play the deadly superspy who treats everything like a game. That's him behind the scenes of Thunderball with Claudine Auger, who played Domino. Also Read: All 007 Bond Actors, Ranked Of Course Given the technology of the time, sometimes Connery was forced into Roger Moore levels of silliness. That's him behind the scenes of 1967's You Only Live Twice, above. It only adds to the charm. Forever Sean Connery left the Bond franchise after You Only Live Twice, and George Lazenby took over for 1969's On Her Majesty's Secret Service, perhaps the most tragic of all Bond movies, given its bummer ending. But Connery returned for 1971's Diamonds Are Forever. Above, he shares a laugh on the Diamonds Are Forever set with Jill St. John. Never Say Never? That was it for Sean Connery as James Bond — until 1984, when he was lured back one last time. 1983's Never Say Never Again was a reference to Connery's 1971 quote that he would never again play Bond. Like Thunderball, it is based on Ian Fleming's Thunderball — yes, that's right. Is it a remake? Kind of, but it's updated with Bond frequently referencing his advancing years. (Connery was 52 at the time of filming, and would live for another 38 years.) Never Say Never Again was released by Warner Bros. rather than the usual Bond distributor, United Artists, because of a completed rights dispute we don't have to get into here. Above, Connery waits in the water with Kim Basinger, the new Domino. Liked These Behind the Scene Photos of Sean Connery as the First James Bond, Agent 007? We bet you'll also like these Behind the Scenes Images of Goldfinger, and this excerpt from Nicholas Shakespeare's aforementioned — and excellent — Ian Fleming, The Complete Man. Main image: Sean Connery and Ursula Andress in a promotional image for Goldfinger. United Artists. Related Headlines Lisa Dahl: Blessed by Grace Recounts a Mother's Journey From Tragedy to Nourishing Others To Make 'Toots,' My Sensitive Film About Aging, I Needed the Perfect Fart Noise 11 Shameless 2000s Comedies That Just Don't Care If You're Offended Solve the daily Crossword
Metro
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
British actor claims stepping into James Bond role is a 'nightmare'
Henry Golding has shared his honest thoughts on stepping into the James Bond role, describing it as every actor's 'nightmare'. In the wake of Daniel Craig's exit from the franchise after the release of No Time To Die, fans have been not-so-patiently waiting for news on who would be taking over as 007. Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Taron Egerton, Henry Cavill, Idris Elba, Rege Jean-Page and Aaron Pierre are just some of the names that have been linked to the superspy in the last few years, with no sign of the speculation calming down. In fact, an insider recently claimed that – following the news that Denis Villeneuve will be directing the upcoming movie – bosses have placed Tom Holland, Jacob Elordi and Harris Dickinson at the top of their wish list. During an appearance at the Old Guard 2 premiere in LA, Henry – whose name has also been thrown into the mix – touched on the future of the Bond, and taking over the reins. 'I think that's every actor's kind of nightmare,' he told People Magazine. 'But at the same time, [you're] also wanting to kind of add something new to a franchise. 'Why can't they bring out more agents or more OOs? I think that would be so much more fun, because there just isn't the restraints and the expectation.' 'Maybe I'm just a p***y. I don't know. But I think I would love it so much more if there wasn't that overhanging cultural pressure.' In a huge change to the Bond franchise, it was recently announced that Amazon MGM Studios had acquired full creative control, with long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson stepping back. Last week, Dune director Denis was confirmed to helm the next movie, and will also serve as executive producer beside wife Tanya Lapointe. 'Some of my earliest movie-going memories are connected to 007. I grew up watching James Bond films with my father, ever since Dr No with Sean Connery,' he said in a statement. 'I'm a die-hard Bond fan. To me, he's sacred territory. I intend to honour the tradition and open the path for many new missions to come. 'This is a massive responsibility, but also incredibly exciting for me and a huge honour.' With intense speculation on who the next famous face to don the infamous tux growing, former Bond star Pierce Brosnan opened up about who he would love to see take over the role. The MobLand actor, who starred as the suave spy for four films told the Hollywood Reporter: 'I have no picks. I shall leave it open to the powers that be. More Trending 'It's a very exciting moment in the history of James Bond. Now that Barbara and Michael have relinquished the reins of it.' Discussing how his co-star, Tom Hardy, could fare, he vowed: 'Oh! Tom would be wonderful. 'There's so many great actors out there who could portray this character. I have no idea who, I have no idea. I wish whoever it is great success.' Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Paul Walker's character returning to Fast & Furious franchise 12 years after his death MORE: Netflix fans can binge final 6 episodes of biggest TV show 'no one's talking about' MORE: Line of Duty fans – we're sucking diesel after Netflix drops all 6 seasons
Evening Standard
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Evening Standard
Denis Villeneuve to direct next James Bond film in major franchise shake-up
Wilson and Broccoli had produced the franchise since the death of Albert 'Cubby' Broccoli. The official film franchise had been controlled by members of the Broccoli family, either single-handedly or in partnership with others, since the first 007 movie Dr No in 1962.
Daily Record
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
'Greatest' James Bond film of all time ranked by Rotten Tomatoes
The James Bond film franchise has been running since 1962, with 27 movies released over the years - and now the entire collection has been ranked from worst to best Across 27 films and seven actors taking on the role of the iconic 007 agent, James Bond has established itself as a quintessential British film franchise since the swinging sixties. But which film claims the crown as the best Bond flick? Rotten Tomatoes, one of the most reliable film and telly review sites, is often the first port of call for those seeking the truth about a film's quality, giving power to the people. Its 'Tomatometer' calculates an overall score based on cinema-goers' reviews, and this has enabled them to rank all of the James Bond films in order, with the top spot boasting an impressive 99% score. James Bond was initially conceived in 1953 by Ian Fleming as a fictional British Secret Service agent, whose life and missions spanned 12 novels and two short stories. However, in 1962, Fleming's character made his screen debut, altering the trajectory of British film history with Dr No, the inaugural Bond film, which remains one of the best-reviewed of the 007 movies. Since then, the franchise has soared to new heights, with fans eagerly awaiting each new release and watching the international man of mystery traverse the globe, undertake new missions, and don swanky new suits. While the worst-reviewed film of the Bond franchise is the 1967 spoof Casino Royale, featuring David Niven, claiming the top spot is Goldfinger, released in 1964, reports the Express. Goldfinger, the dazzling third James Bond offering, reigns supreme as viewers' top pick of the series, featuring Sean Connery's iconic portrayal as the suave MI6 operative. After the success of its predecessors, the budget for Goldfinger was ramped up to match the combined expenditure of the first two films, setting the stage for the enterprise's first major blockbuster and paving the way for future extravaganzas. An enthusiast on Rotten Tomatoes lavished praise, writing: "The Bond film to which all others must be compared. The girls, the guns, the gadgets, the locations, the villains, the evil master plan... it may not have been the first Bond film, but it is, and likely always will be, the standard-bearer." Another fan said: "Goldfinger hands down is one of the best in the entire series. It simply has everything great to offer: you have action, one-liners, a great villain, a memorable Bond girl and Sean Connery as Bond. Absolutely iconic." Not to be outdone, From Russia With Love claims second place with an impressive 97% score, attributed to its 'spectacular' scenes, and remaining unforgettable with Connery at the helm. One viewer summed up: "Sean Connery will never truly be replaced as Bond," adding: "And, if 'Dr No' wasn't enough proof of that, look no further than this funny, thrilling and sexy adventure." We must track down to fourth place in the rolodex of Bond films to encounter the modern-era 007s, with Daniel Craig's debut in 'Casino Royale' leading the charge. 'No Time to Die', which graced the silver screen in 2021, nestles at number seven amidst the top-rated Bonds. This chapter marked the curtain call for Daniel Craig as the iconic spy, passing the famed baton on to an as-yet undisclosed successor. Fans were vocal about Craig's swansong, with one critic saying: "Daniel Craig's final Bond is EVERYTHING we hoped for! Action, emotion, and a perfect goodbye to the 007 who redefined the role." Another added: "The multiverse-level excitement of bringing his journey full circle with heart & high stakes. It's not just about stopping the villain; it's Bond facing his past & legacy. Craig is on fire, balancing grit & vulnerability like no other. We came for the action and stayed for the emotion. This film gave us closure & left us in awe. A proper farewell to a Bond we'll never forget." Bond aficionados eager for a dive into espionage nostalgia or simply wishing to treat themselves to the unparalleled 'Goldfinger', can find solace as it's available for streaming on ITVX and Amazon Prime.
Scotsman
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Inside the retro and unique Scottish house that's on sale for offers over £900,000
This unique property in Edinburgh's Barnton Gardens is guaranteed to give you an instant earworm involving a certain song by the Eagles. And, indeed, The Hacienda is a lovely place, with its SoCal vibes that make Scotland seem just a few degrees warmer. This 2580 square foot three-bedroom property was designed in 1980, and has real California soul, with a spiral staircase, a Mexican tiled kitchen island, open plan living spaces and a lush garden that has direct access to the 18th tee of The Bruntsfield Links Golfing Society. It's also spread across two floors, or three if you count the large floored attic. If this sounds like your style, the house is now on the market, via estate agent The Modern House, at offers over £900,000. We asked long-term resident Christine Gupta, who owns the property with her husband, Ash, to tell us more about her retro and very cool home. Why are you moving on? We're both getting older so it's time for us to do a bit of downsizing. Tell us more about the building and its design? It was built in 1980 to a design by architect Gareth Hutchison and developer Derek Edgar who had lived for some years in San Diego and brought the SoCal influence to the building's aesthetic, so that was its inspiration. We bought it in 1984 having fallen in love with it at first glance and have been very happy here ever since. The interior looks like the inside of a shell. Was that their inspiration? The aesthetic has a specific design purpose. The whole house was ahead of its time as it is actually a thermally efficient heat pump. The open plan allows the warmth to flow and radiate throughout the structure. It's very Seventies inside, is that an era that you love? Yes, some of the features remind people of the houses in Seventies films like Dr No – the open fires, the spiral staircase, the split-level open space and the cocktail bar. The free-flowing layout makes it a very social space. Your artworks really complement the space, where did you find the paintings? The majority of the work is mine. I started painting in 2014 and now have my work in private collections around the world. You can see more at . The tapestries came from a tiny specialist shop in Fulham that sold Peruvian hangings and they fitted in perfectly with the feel of the house. Which are your favourite spaces? The kitchen is a favourite as it's the heart of the house and people often say they feel like they're on holiday when they first walk into it. The open plan living area is wonderful for entertaining and enjoys light from three sides with beautiful views to the natural planting of the garden. The best room has to be the master bedroom with its sunny aspect and spacious calmness. It also has a large and very restful en suite bathroom/shower room with views to gardens on both sides. What have been your happiest times in the house? We have always enjoyed entertaining friends and family for parties and legendary barbecues. Some of our parties have featured live bands, but the location means that the neighbours are not disturbed – and they're usually invited anyway! We've also had many happy times in the garden which is very sheltered and we've even found ourselves eating al fresco as early as February. Is it important that the new owner preserves some of the original internal designs, or do you hope that they will? We hardly changed a thing when we first moved in and have not felt the need to impose our own design on the house other than to make it a showcase for my own art. We would hope that the new owners enjoy the open plan flow of the house as much as we have. What's the area like to live in? The area is wonderful with plenty of convenient local amenities and a supportive neighbourhood group. There are fabulous walks to Cramond or in the grounds of Lauriston Castle with its Japanese garden, which is just across the road from us. The house backs on to the 18th hole of the Bruntsfield Golfing Society, one of the oldest clubs in the world, and Barnton Tennis Club is just a few minutes' walk away. You can get to the city centre by the number 47 bus almost from our door and there are essential resources like a supermarket, doctors and dentists also within walking distance. What have you done to the garden and what's growing out there? We've made the garden into a wildlife haven which often gets visits from deer, pheasants and foxes. Rhododendrons, cherry trees, hydrangeas and ferns all thrive and are easy maintenance. There are three lawn areas, one immediately adjacent to the golf club, which makes a great spot to enjoy the evening sun with a glass in hand. What are the best views from the house? The view from the master bedroom over the garden is always a joy and is not overlooked by anyone else. There is also a wonderful view through the woods to the Firth of Forth. The woods were planted for us by the golf course and became recognised as an area of outstanding natural beauty. This means that no one can build there and destroy the view. For more information on The Hacienda, see 1 . The fireplace with sliding doors to balcony The Modern House Photo: The Modern House Photo Sales 2 . The dining area The Modern House Photo: The Modern House Photo Sales 3 . Another view of the dining area The Modern House Photo: The Modern House Photo Sales 4 . The bedroom with balcony The Modern House Photo: The Modern House Photo Sales
