Cool News
Michael Apted to direct BOND 19
Well depending if you read VARIETY this morning, or if you read HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, you'll hear that Michael Apted is involved in the director chores for the 19th James Bond flick. Variety is reporting "Director Michael Apted is in negotiations to take the helm of United Artists’ next James Bond film, tentatively titled “Bond 19.”" Meanwhile over at Hollywood Reporter they say, "Michael Apted is set to direct the newest installment of the James Bond series for United Artists."
So Apted is either working on the paper work or is beginning the scripting process with Neal Purvis and Robert Wade. I've heard they went out far and wide with this flick. I've been told several directors said nay to a 19th Bond flick. So, what I'm gonna do is I'm gonna put up a listing of Apted's directing credits, and I'd like to read your "Talk Back" about this. What do you Bond fans think of Apted as director?
42 Up (1998)
Fortune's Fools (1998)
Inspirations (1997)
Extreme Measures (1996)
Nell (1994)
Blink (1994)
Moving the Mountain (1994)
Thunderheart (1992)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
42 Up (1998)
Fortune's Fools (1998)
Inspirations (1997)
Extreme Measures (1996)
Nell (1994)
Blink (1994)
Moving the Mountain (1994)
Thunderheart (1992)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Inspirations (1997)
Extreme Measures (1996)
Nell (1994)
Blink (1994)
Moving the Mountain (1994)
Thunderheart (1992)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Nell (1994)
Blink (1994)
Moving the Mountain (1994)
Thunderheart (1992)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Moving the Mountain (1994)
Thunderheart (1992)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Incident at Oglala (1992)
Class Action (1991)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
"My Life and Times" (1991) TV Series
35 Up (1991)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Long Way Home, The (1989) (TV)
Gorillas in the Mist (1988)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Critical Condition (1987)
28 Up (1985)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Bring on the Night (1985)
Firstborn (1984)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
... aka First Born (1984)
Gorky Park (1983)
P'tang Yang Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
... aka Kipperbang (1982) (TV)
Continental Divide (1981)
Coal Miner's Daughter (1980)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Agatha (1979)
21 Up (1977) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Squeeze, The (1977)
Stronger Than the Sun (1977) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Collection, The (1975) (TV)
Stardust (1974)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
Triple Echo (1973)
... aka Soldier in Skirts (1973)
Reporters, The (1972) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
"Lovers, The" (1970) TV Series
Seven Plus Seven (1970) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
"Big Breadwinner Hogg" (1969) TV Series
Seven Up (1964) (TV)
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I dont think Apted has the "glamour " nor the uncomprimised hero feeling for this.
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Bond 19 is just the working title of the next instalment. Michael Apted, like Roger Spottiswode before him is a mediocre director. Eon Productions are notoriously risk-averse when choose directors (how else do you explain John Glen!). Martin Campbell (Goldeneye) was very good however, they should try and re-hire him or take a risk on an up-and-coming director with some passion for the genre, like the way they did for David Arnold for the music
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Sorry to hear about M Apted.
Another "no name" director
who never did a big
thing in order to keep
this franchise to its
former class.
Cubby if y would have
a chance to say NO !!!
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The guy did Gorky Park! I think he'll do a great job and save the Bond franchise from the disgrace that were the last two movies, especially the Onatopov one.Ugh. I've gotta go take a dump... -
What wories me is that he hasn't directed a big action film before.
He is also touch and go with his drama. Bond has gotten fun again and I'm a little concerned that Apted will make it too serious and the action will be by the numbers and not as inventive or exciting to watch. Who they should go after is John Mctirnen.
That's my humble opinion Harry.
-Romeo
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It looks to me like this guy has never done an action flick before, with a few exceptions. In my mind, that is exactly what we Bond fans should want. So many people, myself included, have complained to anyone who will lesten that "TND" was far too much like an action movie, and far too little like a Bond movie. Gotta run.
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I agree with Ross that this guy could bring something new to James Bond. Pierce has stated that he was more interested in taking a look into the man then doing just another "shoot-em-up." That interests me. All the same, I'd rather they did it with Martin Campbell.
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I don't know if these two programmes have been shown outside of Great Birtain yet, but when they are broadcast, YOU MUST SEE THEM.
I missed "48 Up", which was the latest in a series of documentaries following a group of english people from the age of seven, and returning to check up on them every seven years. This was supposed to have been the best piece of television in years (and I missed it; Doh!), but I did see the russian version of it, 14 Up, narrated by Robert Carlisle (the psychopathic Begbie from Trainspotting, and the lead actor in the Full Monty), and this WAS the best piece of television in years.
In turns, disturbing, heart-wrenching, halarious, chilling, and yet always educational (and not in an insulting way), it showed the changes that the children had gone through since the breakup of the soviet union, and how they and their families had coped, or not.
Apted was involved in the making of this programme, and should be bloody well knighted for it.
Although I still can't forgive him for "Nell": it sucks!! it sucks!! -
Sigh! If this is true then fine, but I will still dream of what Martin Scorsese could have done with bond... the moving camera work... the complex character... a powerful theme and the action. I could imagine the intro sequence...
FLASHBACK. A child playing with what seems to be an ordinary cigarette lighter. His mother is cooking in the b.g. A bald kid across the street seems to be up to no good. The child begins to walk towards the bald kid. He lights the lighter... FREEZE FRAME
BOND (V.O)
All ever wanted to be was... a British Secret Agent.
Bond music cue: -
I can't imagine it happening. The trades have been misfiring lately (American Psycho, Charlie's Angels', Kurt Russell). Not that I wouldn't want to see what Apted would do with the franchise. He's made some intelligent flicks, nothing too action-y though, at least that I've seen. But he'd certainly produce something more worthy than the last two brain-dead installments (especially TND, what a colossal waste).
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Good director overall, has really interesting camera work, tends to be able to pull out good performances from his actors.
Gorillas in the Mist was not only a challenging shoot from the technical side (in the jungle on a mountain side), but to be respectful of Dian Fossey's work, and create the movie around sig and her interactions with the gorillas made that movie very good for me.
So, harry, i don't know what it is they want to do with Bond, make him more real?? That would the the wrong way to go, in my view, I like the factt hat Bond is not too real, and that he's a very romanticized character, that's why I like him so much.
I like Apted but I'm a little nervous...
Ripley -
Hmmmm. Apted is good at romantic comedies, but kick ass action movies? I don't think so. You need someone who is familiar with the genre and perhaps has a little knowledge of how a Bond film works. The last Bond film worked because the director new what the mix was. John Woo would be perfect because he has the action/humour touch, but Apted? Naaaaaah
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Looks like UA wants a cheap guy that they can push around...
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Why this director?
A history in TV documentories just isn't good grounding for an action movie. -
D'OH! I guess the execs at UA are down to throwing darts at a board full of cards with directors names on them and whoever they hit they call. All I can say is: "IMPROVE YOUR AIM!". I am not saying Apted is a bad director, but certain directors are good at certain genres. Bond, for all intents and purposes is an "action series". You wouldn't have Penny Marshall direct DIE HARD (MMMM DIE HARD), would you? Do the series and the audience a service and pick an appropriate director. Make everyone happy.
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Apted's a spirited, thoughtful director. He's done some turkeys, sure, but he's done some real winners. One was a true oscar contender (Coal Miner's Daughter). And when he's failed, it's never been for want of trying. The UP series is spectacular in a real, human sense.
The question remains: is Apted doing this because 1) he thinks he can bring something new to a series he loves or 2) he needs the money?
Hopefully it's the latter. And hopefully Wilson (not a bad writer in his own right) and Babs Broccolli will give him the room he needs to make a nice film.
And I hope they give the same kind of promotional push to this one that they did to TND, _provided_ the script is as good as Licence to Kill. -
Excuse me. That should say, "hopefully, the former." NOT "the latter."
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This is a great choice. Another director who can not only do action but can also get into BONDS head.
Watch GORILLAS in THE MIST and EXTREME MEASURES and you will see how good this can be.
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Well good sir, I think Apted is a quality director, hasn't really had a hit in a while. But personnally, the series needs to recover from Spotiswoode's influence on Tomorrow Never Dies (one of the weaker Bond's). But back to Apted, films like Thunderheart and Extreme Measures, are both beautifully photographed and thought provoking, I think Apted brings a unique style to Bond. I eagerly await his film.
Philip James -
Apted is a skilled director. He has a lot of credentials and his work is never poor. However, he isn't a director that will bring a distinct style or feel to the series, which may be what the producers are looking for.
Personally, I think that they should aim higher. If Tom Cruise can talk John Woo into MISSION IMPOSSIBLE 2 then maybe we could get a "Hong Kong" action going on BOND, even if it isn't Woo. -
Having seen Extreme Measures and remembering how tense that film was, Apted sounds like a good choice to me!
But am I the only one wondering when Kathryn Bigelow (Strange Days, Near Dark) is going to get a chance?! I think she'd make a great Bond director!
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Having seen Extreme Measures and remembering how tense that film was, Apted sounds like a good choice to me!
But am I the only one wondering when Kathryn Bigelow (Strange Days, Near Dark) is going to get a chance?! I think she'd make a great Bond director!
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Michael Apted may not be an obvious choice, or whom I would of picked, but remember that Irvin Kershner had directed 'Loving' and 'The return of the man called Horse' before doing 'ESB' so give him a chance
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BAD BAD BAD BAD BAD idea. Look what Roger Spottiswood did for Tommorow Never Dies. A good film, but would have been infinatly better with a director who new what BOND should be like.
Get JOHN WOO.
Or even bring back Martin Campbell who did Goldeneye! -
My mate Rob Pleasance should direct Bond 19. He knows the subject matter, He knows the industry, basically, he's not Michael Apted. What are the Broccolis thinking? First Roger Spottiswoode (TURNER AND HOOCH GUY ?!?!?!) Now this. From Nell to Bond? Hmm. For the next one, let's get Mike Leigh. Oh, and I know loads about Purvis and Wade and I've been told they're wankers.
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This is another example of Hollywood's fascination with bleeding heart liberal school marm
directors. They should wait until
an A list director or some genius
they pull off the streets shows up
to do the job right! RIGHT ON MAN, SOLID! -
OK, this guy can direct pretty well...some of the time. Thunderheart and Gorillas in the Mist are great shows, but some of his stuff really sucks (come on, First Born?!) Not to mention, he's never done any sort of out and out action flick, Thunderheart being about the closest. Personally, the people I'd rather see someone like John McTiernan (Die Hard) or James Cameron (True Lies) do a Bond, but it looks like if UA is hiring Apted, they don't have the cash for a director that knows the genre. At the very least they could get some schmucko like Renny Harlin (Long Kiss Goodnight).
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I'm personally happy as a pig in shit that Michael Apted gonna do Bond 19. Why? He'll slow the shit back down, and for that I say yay! Tomorrow Never Dies moved at a swell pace, but not a Bond pace, not allowing anyone to be sucked into that dynamo chase sequence-giving you the feeling that they shot all of the commercials for the 20 zillion sponsors and just patched 'em together as a flick. (okay, Michelle was great, but, jesus christ, caucasians sure can't shoot high-kicking actions scenes for shit--this means you, Donner) Ditch the techno, bring back the strings, and quit fucking updating the man. Let him fuck! Sure, Apted has many a flaw, but with the right material, this could be a return to fun-spirited bond films of yore, and not the cold, uninviting, shit-blows-up-real-good Bond we've been getting lately. Apted's good with actors, and we've got to enjoy Pierce while we can, cuz the handsome Brit supply is running low (though I'd love to see David Thewlis as a swaggering, unshaven Bond.) At least Bond 19 didn't wind up in the hands of Michael Bay, cuz then I'd really have to kill the fucker.
over and out,
CheapChief -
Frankly, I can't site any specific examples of why Apted would or wouldn't be a good "Bond" director. I've seen several of his films and nothing sticks in my mind as being very spectacular. More inmportantly, though, I couldn't name any other "Bond" directors, if I was asked. This is because when I watch a Bond flick (and I've seen them all) I'm not thinking about the director. I don't think any of the films have broken any new directorial ground. But that's not why I watch them. I watch for the gadgets, the action scenes, the gorgeous women, the villians, and a (resonably) coherent plot; in short, all the things that make a Bond movie. As long as the director has experience (and Apted certainly has), I can't imagine Bond 19 being any better or any worse than the latest instalments. IMHO, the greatest challenge in making Bond 19 will be keeping the francise interesting after 18 movies. Hopefully, it will be better than TND. (you have to admit that an "evil media barron" was a stretch, even for a Bond villian)
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I would think that diirecting a James Bond film would be quite difficult, even though the plot lines tend to be quite simple. Reviewing Apted's long and prolific career, one would think that he'd have the technical knowlegde of how to make a James Bond film, but not necessarily the eye candy ability that makes James Bond films the fun and exciting films they are. Also his other movies seem to be a little on the dramatic/emotional side. The last thing we want is a PC James Bond who gets all gushy and pensive everytime he mows down a security guard in an orange/blue/white jump suit. Just another two cents, I think Pierce Brosnan is doing a great job as 007. The list goes,
1) Sean 'The Man' Connery'
2) Roger 'The Saint' Moore
3) Pierce 'Remington' Brosnan
4) George 'Who?' Lazenby
5) Timothy 'Flash Gordon Best Movie He Ever Did' Dalton. -
Didn't Michael Apted also direct "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan Lord Of The Apes"? Not a bad movie, and he does seem to be a fairly biggish director, here in Blighty anyway. I also have a sneaking suspicion that he may have directed "Chariots Of Fire" but I could be wrong.
Not a bad choice. Better than Spottiswood but is he better than Campbell? How about injecting some younger blood into the directors seat of the Bond franchise? -
i'm not trying to say apted is a terribile director or anything,
but getting a person who has done films like extreme measures(very bad) and gorrrilas in the mist(alright) does anyone want to see hih do a bond film which are mainly just
a lot of macho action(entertaining macho action) do a bond film.
i can just see it bond is sent in to stop the summmigling of silverback gorillas and he shares a kindred spirit with them and givesw up his life of martinis women and guns to go live in the forest. -
i'm not trying to say apted is a terribile director or anything,
but getting a person who has done films like extreme measures(very bad) and gorillas in the mist(alright) does anyone want to see hih do a bond film which are mainly just
a lot of macho action(entertaining macho action) do a bond film.
i can just see it bond is sent in to stop the summmigling of silverback gorillas and he shares a kindred spirit with them and givesw up his life of martinis women and guns to go live in the forest. -
Look, maybe I'm the only one, but I actually quite liked bond 18 (TMD)...Okay so Jonathan Pryce was a total ham, but Michelle Yeoh's agent Wai Lin more than made up for him and and then some.
Now I'll admit I'm not the worlds biggest Bond-a-holic, although I do consider myself to be a fan of the series, but while I myself am a moderate fan of Apted's work I just can't see him pulling off any of the big action setpieces with the style and suavity required of a bond film.
Granted, this very well could be due to the fact that Michael Apted just hasn't handled anything like this before, and hell, he might just make a great film (as always, I'll wait until I see a finished product until I pass my final judgement) but to be perfectly honest, I just can't see it, sure he's made some great films in the past, but nothing to me that demonstrates an ability with this type of film. I'd be a lot happier if I knew that he had signed on because of a general love of the subject matter, or because he always wanted to direct a bond film, and not for the (quite probably) more likely reason of he's doing it for the money/exposure.
Anyways, if I had my way the shortlist would consist of Kathryn Bigelow (maker of two of the best, most under appreciated and coolest films that almost no-one has ever seen, Near Dark and Strange Days), Luc Besson (THE stylemeister), George Armitage (he of the ultracool Miami Blues and Grosse Pointe Blank), and yes, I too agree that Martin Campbell would also be well worth another shot at megaphone duties on another Bond film...still, as always, only time will tell...come on Michael Apted, prove us all wrong and deliver a kickass Bond adventure just like we all hope for.
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Hmm. I watched the first 15 minutes of the last Bond Film and turned it off out of total bordom. I don't really care about action. Bond is about being smooth, slick, gambling, romance, sarcasm, etc. Maybe this director has a clue. Hint - pay attention to early Bond. Connery. That's what everyone wants.
SVA student, NY -
Looking over the list of films to Michael Apt's credit, there are a few familar names. Nothing jumps out at me as having been a movie I really enjoyed. Hopefully, Mr. Apt will look at why Tommorow Never Dies was a bad film.
James Bond is a fascinating character, based on a very simple formula (BTW, either you like him or you don't; there's rarely middle ground for Bond). Gadgets of all shapes and sizes, followed by a dashing, devilishly handsome lady-killer who's the life of the party and comfortable with any situation.
The film should have interesting, but believable stunts, witty dialogue and a smattering (or a smash, if you prefer) of good looking women for Bond to smile at and save.
Tomorrow Never Dies had a very poorly scripted villian, and had a few very unbelievable stunts. Yes, it's a movie; yes, it's a fantasy world. But they call it 'suspension of disbelief'. And frankly, if a helicopter tried what the chopper in Tomorrow Never Dies did; it'd be very, very explosive.
Let's all hope we get a Bond film worthy of the franchise. We've waited for Pierce to get the role he was perhaps born to play; now don't waste his talents on (another) bad script!
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Nell was stupid, so I dont know about this director but as long as he sticks with the normal formula for a Bond movie, he cant screw up that badly.
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The only thing Apted is good at directing is me out of a parking space when I quit working for him, the rat.
Sure he made some documentaries that didn't suck. But he's not stylish or even cool himself. You know who should direct the next James Bond movie?
John Woo. Harry, you've got some pull baby, can't you smack them around until they get the idea?
I know he's busy, but hey, it's James Bond. WE NEED SOMEONE GOOD. -
It was actually quite a cool film...when you got past the Hugh Grant thing. Slick, entertaining and moved along nicely - everything a Bond film should be...BUT - and its a big but - I'm not sure that he can laugh at his work enough to direct the kind of self referental Bond that We've become used to after Goldeneye and TND.
Comments? -
Nell,Thunderheart=good
I also saw Blink and will have to call that "just another movie." The others I haven't seen. Basically, I have low expectations of "superaction" films... They cost so much -- Water World, e.g, but US consumers are so spoiled, i.e., used to actionactionaction that it hits blind eyes, whereas more human dramas -- INVOLVEMENT -- still continues to deliver, imho. -
After reading Dr Funky's post...
JOHN WOO FOR BOND!
Why? Face/Off. I rest my case. -
Good choice in Michael Apted. Although he hasn't really cut his teeth on the standard Hollywood action/adventure genere--he HAS been very effective in working with actors and gaining impressive and nuanced performances. This might help to fuel the dramatic areas the Bond series needs to explore next. Plus this guy has numerious experience shooting in difficult locations. Now it's up to the scriptwrites to wow us all.
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Man that last one sucked hard.
We need prooven kickass directors.
1. Robert Rodriguez.
Let him come up with the story too.
2. John Woo
Duh!
3. Japanese guy that did Golgo13 Anime.
That movie is so cool.
4. McTiernan
Only if he goes back to the way he
used to direct, before Last Action Hero. Predator, DieHard, Red October....too good.
5. Paul Verhoven
Damn that would be sweet.
6. Tony Scott
Last BOyscout anyone?
7. George Miller
Yeah Baby!
8. James Cameron
Hey, I can dream. How about a TrueLies crossover!? Joy!
9. Spielberg
Too late, he already has Indy.
Although he'd probably do a Bond
with Sean Connery if the script
rocked! You never know.
10. Quentin
He could hook it up sweet. Imagine
Sam Jackson as a double-O agaent! -
Although he may be a skilled director, Michael Apted should not be directing Bond 19. They should have asked a reputable action director to do it.
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Well, he did do some good movies - Extreme Measures was excellent in my book, and Blink is pretty damn good. With this guy behind the helm, the plot is bound to great. But I am not certain on how the action part of Bond will be handled. His movies don't show a keen skill in handling hard action sequences. That is, after all, an important part of anything that includes 007. If this guy can also take care of making bond smoothe, then he should be good
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Sad to see someone who has executed such beautiful work in the past is relegated to Bond. This is coming from BOND FAN! Maybe its time to retire and he's cashing in as many chips as he can before he works full time with a fishing pole.
Harry, love the site. I usually hit it once a week to keep. I also dig the power you have collected by offering a sincere opinion and voice to "all those people out there in the dark". Good Luck! -
MGM/UA...a.k.a. THE BIG BROKE LION...is gonna get lynch-mobbed for this choice. Michael Apted? I think not! Does this guy know anything about action movies? Heck, they can get F Gary Gray from The Negotiator and Set It Off to do better than this guy. Maybe if Timothy Dalton was still doing Bond flicks then he'd be appropriate. But not with Pierce Brosnan. Hey Leo...roar us up a better choice, o.k.??!!
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I guess because MGM is strapped for cash, the fans end up shortchanged again.
They should've started with a script penned by the screenwriters of Die Hard that was adapted from a great spy novel. Then get John McTiernan to direct. [BTW make the ending in doubt to heighten the tension.]
Above all, the Old Bond must return. To hell with this PC crap.
Sean was the best Bond because he was a jerk. The man with all the babes and all the luck and you wished you could punch him out, but he'd kick your ass.
Pit Bond against an equal asshole with an over the top heavy [spar heavily - mixture of humor and real danger], mix in your 90's woman[to be broken by Bond], great locations, John Barry soundtrack and breathtaking stunts [that are incorporated as part of the story NOT set pieces].......
Then the fans will be treated to the best Bond film of the 80's and 90's. -
Goldeneye was one the best bond films.(and made a kickass videogame) Bring back that computer feeling to the movies.
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Oh, come on. Did you ever expect the Bond series to go anywhere new?
But Apted certainly can do no worse than "Tomorrow Never Dies," which was the worst Bond movie ever (and I'm even considering "A View To A Kill" and "Moonraker." -
Michael Apted is one of my favorite directors, but not an action/adventure director as I can remember. His "Up" series is one of the best docs I've ever seen and see every 7 years. What the heck could he do with a Bond film? Make it into a Harold Pinter play, perhaps?
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I think I can speak on behalf of Bond fans everywhere when I say: GOD HELP US!!! I've seen Gorky Park(all over the place and boring, except for the appearence of Ian McDiarmid)and Nell(interesting if you get off seeing Jodie Foster naked) and both of them stunk. We can only hope that the "standards" of the Bond franchise can hold up even with Apted's direction.
If nobody else is using it, call me MasterC -
Overall, not a bad choice. Probably not an 'A'list director by Hollywoods standards, but his background looks solid and his hiring, in conjuction with Purvis and Wade seems to indicate a story driven Bond film rather than a shoot 'em up. I'm encouraged by the news.
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Come on guys!
I'm sure UA know what they're doing!
(stifles laughter)
The guy who directed Nell is destined to be a Bond director
(avoids eye contact)
And the scriptwriters whose only filmed work was "Let Him Have it" are perfectly suited to the project.
(Loses it, sucks all the oxygen out of the room laughing, carried out on stretcher) -
As much as I love the Bond films, let's face it; it can't take much to direct one of these things. They are pure action-movie formula. Big opening, introduce the bad guy, here's the gadgets, blah, blah, blah. Anyone could direct a Bond film.
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From Nell and Coal Miner's Daughter to Bond? I don't think so. Tony Scott or Michael Bay should be hired for the next Bond flick.
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From what I can see here, the fans don't even agree on what they want for a new Bond, so what is the studio supposed to think? I agree that Bond hasn't lived up to the old days lately, but is that even possible? Personally I don't think so. The idea of setting the films back in the 60's again is a cool idea though... does anyone think that would solve the problem of Un-Bondlike Bond movies?
-Northy- -
I met Apted when he came to our school and did a talk, and he is a very competent skilled director who will probably bring a greater humanity to the rather souless bond series. I'd say that's the most inspired bit of hiring that United Artists has done since hiring Sean Connery.
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anyone can. That guy directed 'Stop Or My Mom Will Shoot!' for God's sake, and I enjoyed the last Bond movie tremendously. I think we should worry more about the script. The last film had a fun action-packed old-school Bond feel to it. Goldeneye did not. The difference in the dialogue and plot line made all the difference. It also doesn't hurt that Apted has made some GREAT movies. And he's tried his hand at suspense, mysteries, comedy, and a bit of action. All of these things are integral parts of Bond. Not to mention (besides Critical Condition) that he's a very classy film maker. I think he's a great choice, and will attract some great talent for supporting roles.
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I don't claim to know a lot about
the movie business but it seems to me that Michael doesn't have a lot of experience with action films. So he may concern himself to much with the script and character development, which has no place in any Bond film. -
Michael Apet's "UP" series of documentaries remain a fascinating (and starkly frank) look at contemporary british souls but as a genre director I dunno. What's the matter with a Hong Kong action stylist like Ringo Lam? At least Spotiswoode could keep things moving with odds bit of flare but Apet seems more likely to excel in dialog ladden scenes. Perhaps the producers will elevate a top flight second unit. Nontheless, I just saw the Mask Of Zorro and it's a shame the producers have not coached backed Martin Cambell. If they couldn't George Lucas should for guess what?
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I don't know if the new bond will be any good, but "Incident at Oglala" is on my top 100 films of all time list.
N -
TND SUCKED so badly that in my opinion the next couple of Bonds will probably suck too.... sorry folks, but that's my awful logic. Wanna hear some more stuff I just thought might work? They should load the new Bond movie with gratuitous R Rated sex. Ya know I mean Bond gives the chickz the real secret weapon, if ya know what I'm gettin at. Well I think that'd make for an interesting Bond... make it less pc and on the road to the old Bonds! well that's just my opinion... feel free to trash the hell out of me!
Finnegan -
Martin Campbell did a good enough job on GoldenEye (unlike Spottiswoode on TND). Why not just bring him back? We don't need someone new to screw up another potentially good flick like with the last one.
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Well it seem to me that he(the director) have specialised in films where the development of carector is essential. You could argue that, but fact is that I don't want the next Bond instalment to tell me more about bond. Don't get me wrong- but Bond don't need to get his weaknesses exposed more than they already are. But most important- I and all of my friends here in Denmark hate PC. We want him to be a "chauvenist(cant spell it)", and we don't want any side-kick to take the glory away from our hero!!!
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Although the world around him changes with its new dangers and pleasures, Bond succeeds as a franchise because he remains steadfastly Bond.
He does what he pleases. Too much gambling, too many women, too much food & drink.
He says what he pleases, getting the goat of his enemies and putting women in their place ("But of course you are").
He slays the dragon of technology and the mad men who would try to harness its power.
He allows us for 120 minutes to be IN CONTROL.
This is the essence of the Bond formula. The exotic locations, stunts and gadgets are merely window dressing for the struggle to assert onself on the crazy world and one's fellow inhabitants.
Tension and release. A hint of pleasure, a taste of death.
Unless Danjaq recaptures this in the series, they're doomed. The script and resulting film must allow these elements to be played out for the audience to be satisfied.
Again, the ending should be in doubt.
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I might add that "killing" Bond at the end may be a good idea (YOLT - the BOOK). And remove the tag line at the end of eacg film, "James Bond will return."
This may setup Bond 20 as an "unexpected surprise." -
The Bond films are very mediocre, I mean they don't really try to reach very far and won't win any awards. Just throw any director in their with car chases and explosions and some hot bitch and bam, you got Bond number 19, 20, 21, 22...you get my point.
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ok,i'm all for rounding out one's repertoire and all...and,yeah,i am aware that even the directors of empire and jedi did a bunch of dramatic flops for the rest of their careers,but with a big budget,at least somewhat highly anticipated flick like the next bond,if they're gonna get someone whose past credits are a bunch of dramatic tear jerkers,can't they at least get one with some movies we've heard of?ok,nell...and gorillas in the mist...and neither of those were exactly monumental...i dunno,but if bond becomes torn by the bittersweet pangs of love,i'm demanding my money back!
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I love James Bond. Don't get me wrong here. But James Bond doesn't need a great director. He could use a good story line, but Bond is Bond. Not director could ruin Bond, nor could director make and Bond film amzing to watch. I love Bond films becasue they are fun, not because they are great movies. And have any of you thought of the reason why Woo or Rodriguez are not directing Bond? Probably because they wouldn't. I mean Why would an allready established director with a cult following want to do a movie that has a more than established set of characters and a mob following. There is no ground to break in Bond, there is little room for artistic liscence. No great director would want to do Bond unless it was simply for the sake of doing Bond, and I don't think that Woo would be too intested.
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As far as Bond 19 goes...are they
nuts!? Jesus Christ, this guy's
made shit!
As for H20, I just have to say to all the people who, after it was over and it looked like this is the end of the line for the Shape...don't worry, don't you know that that wasn't Mikey she killed...it was Adam Arkin........................... -
Well, the only problem I see with Apted is that he tends to be more "deep" than action heavy, at least if you look at Gorillas in the Mist and Thunderheart. Gorillas was great, but not really an action flick. Thunderheart is pretty fantastic, and though it focuses on story the action it does have is good.
By the way, I was friends with a man in South Dakota whose father was on the reservation during the incidents loosely described in Thunderheart. He says that Apted is the only one to get it right.
Bond is so light and frothy in nature, so way beyond realistic or even philosophical, I'm not sure what a man of Apted's sensibilities will bring to the franchise. Hopefully, not another "TV magnate tries to start a war for headlines" yarn...that was too weird even for Bond -
Director doesn't matter, it's who plays Bond that counts. Campbell and Spottiswoode proved that. The day they give it a McTiernan or Brian Singer is the day they may make a Bond equal to the Goldfinger/Thunderball days.
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I think that no matter how skilled apted is he has a tough act to follow after Roger spottiswood, who added a beauty and fluidity (such a word?) to the shooting of a James Bond film, Slanted angles, Tracking camera shots in fight scene etc, as well as making the realistic side more apparent and making pierce a bit of a kick ass Bond, No wonder people turned the job down!!!
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I think his past movies has proved to be critically acclaimed by many movie reviewers, but he lack the experience of making a blockbuster action movie. He specialized in documentary and drama. But it would be very interesting to see a bond movie with a high characterization over-drive.
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My basic reaction is, "Huh?" I mean, the guy has a fairly good track record, but nothing to suggest he is the right director for a Bond movie. In the past, many movie directors have risen to the occasion...which could happen here. However, I gotta say Apted is an odd choice on the producers' parts. Guess we'll see.
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Apted, Might be good, if he can direct good action sequences, like spottiswoode, Martin Cambell was utter shite. Goldeneye apart from a couple of scenes was very dissapointing, Thank god Cambell didn't do Tomorrow. Apted ...Perhaps
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Aug 08, 1998 7:41:20 PM CDT
Listen UP, you nimrods! Woo and Cameron can kiss my hairy white
by hcearwicker
James Bond is _not_, repeat, _not_, action. He is adventure and spy. There are action moments in it, sure, but he is about plot and about cool sexiness and cleverness and thoughtfullness and none of this action sequence bullshit that was in the last movie or even the Cameron crap in True Lies II (harrier, my butt).
Don't believe me? Watch From Russia with Love or On Her Majesty's Secret Service. Two high quality Bond movies that have one, maybe two interesting action sequences. The rest is plot, baby, plot.
Terence Young and Peter Hunt directed them. Heard of them? No? Because NO ONE DID until then. They knew what they were doing. And Young might as well be credited for FORTY FRICKIN' YEARS of James Bond, because he START THE THING.
You nerds better sit up and listen, because your little "auteurs of the moment," the soi-disant great Steven Spielberg and the so-called whoopee Titanicly egoed Cameron are NEVER GOING TO DO A BOND FILM. Never ever ever ever ever ever ever. -
All I care about really is if he can do a good job, and not make it like TND, which was basically the Ace Ventura: when nature calls of Bond films.
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Like Martin Campbell?
And Young was born in Shanghai... though he speaks with an English accent, and is ethically english -
nobody here seems to know how a bond film works...they have, like a minimum of 4 units going...the "main" director, while obviously involved in the action, still gives great power to the action unit directors -- bogner, top ski photographer, directed the ski sequences, peter hunt directed action sequences on the connery flicks...apted is, BY FAR, the most talented director ever to be attached to a bond flick...coal miner's daughter, gorillas in the midst, thunderheart, the documentaries, a swell track record --- don't worry, the action will take care of itself -- he's there to direct dialogue, and he's the best they've ever had for that...
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If it's created this much talkback, and as varied, it must be a good decision - you want a choice everyone agrees on? How boring.
Jim K, Jeffiwef and HC Earwicker amongst others have the right idea - I particularly agree with the latter two - the trend with the Bond films has been to take directors not noted for their action prowess and give them a chance to make a blockbuster that has more heart, plot and character than your average summer crowdpuller (hence no Bay or any other 'I can edit faster than you can' Hollywood man). They don't have to be British, but at least colonial - hence Campbell and others - because of the kind of man Bond himself is - he harks back to the days of Britain as a world empire and a key superpower, unlike the present. Also important - the recent choices have all made decent dramatic thrillers, and the latter two have taken the time with Bond to bring an individual, professional look to the film AND cut loose with the action sequences (I LOVE the Goldeneye pre-creds and TND's chopper/bike scene), but above all else, the script has to be right, and I agree with those who have said that since Fleming's death nothing has quite been right. Bond has been nicely updated in the eyes of the general public, always more important to production companies than the fans, and that means we can see more Bonds, but after so many elements of classic Bond have been incorporated into US thrillers over the last fifteen years (compare any really solid US thriller/action film of the sixties and seventies with one from the eighties or nineties to see what I mean - Bullit vs. Lethal Weapon, The Detective vs.Die Hard (you should all know why those two are together)) something had to be done to draw the line between Bond and Willis, Gibson et al. Remember the similarities and differences between Octopussy and IJ & the Temple of Doom? Bond is who he is, and while the film bond is different from Fleming's Bond, it can't hurt to draw more on the character as drawn in the books the way Dalton and Brosnan have done. As for plots, well, we still haven't seen the great one of Bond returning brainwashed to try and shoot M, and the consequences for him. All in all, much more to be done with the series that means it can stay Bond but shift tone and still deliver the formula the public (and clearly the international fanbase as well) want. Apted could well deliver, and anyone who scripts as good and as English a dramatic thriller as Let Him Have It is more qualified than most to write Bond. I agree on two other things - more sex, he should smoke again (how DARE Brosnan quit that) AND Kenneth Branagh someday will make a great action movie, even though he reckons Dead Again is as far as he wants to go into the genre area. He will, even if I have to write and produce the bloody thing! -
I love james Bond. But I'm not sure about the next one. I like Brosnan as bond alot. But Apted directs mostly dramatic movies, not action. Lets just hope the next bond isnt like On Her Majesties Secret Service!
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Hi! I just wanted to know if you know anything about a new movie about David Bowies Ziggy Stardust creation? I hear that he (Bowie) has written some new songs and that this is intended to overshadow another movie about 70's "Glam rock" Velvet Goldmine, but, is this true? (Somebody told me down the pub you see!)
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