James Bond

I'm sure that there is not a single soul who hasn't heard of James Bond, and seen at least one of the franchise's films. The character whose fame keeps growing with every film released is now already a sort of icon, and anyone who knows me for more than 2 months knows that I have a mild obsession with him. It all began a couple years ago, when I was sick and layng on the couch, watching tv with my dad when James Bond came on. Because he is very familiar with the story and creation of these films, he began sharing his knowledge with me. It was on that day that I realised how good James Bond really is, and thus decided to give a chance to all the films: not just the newer ones. Throughout the years I've managed to see a large majority of the films and got to know the story and history of the notorious character.

James Bond - 007 was first introduced to the world in the form of a book in 1953, written by Ian Fleming. Because the character was found very interesting, it had been decided that he will be to appear on the movie screen. In 1962, on the premiere of James Bond: Dr. No a legend was born, as Sean Connery in James Bond's shoes - or should I say tux - accomplished his first mission.

What I like most about the James Bond film franchise is the wide variety of foreign and estranged places, and the ever so witty british humour that never ceases to make even the dullest and most depressing of situations fun and easy-going. Every James Bond film is filled with various elements that both represent the time the film was filmed in, and present the luxury and wealthiness of certain characters, organisations, countries. Whether one watches a certain Bond film because of preference or in search of relaxation, the films are fit for a majority of types of people, as the directors constantly strive to reach and acquire the perfect combination of action, drama, comedy, and romance, always managing to satisfy the audience.

Of course I can't speak about James Bond without mentioning the women, cars and gadgets. Each and every girl in the film, be it a Bond girl or a villain, is pretty much the most beautiful existent creature in it. There is never a middle measure; a Bond girl is either the clumsiest, or the most professional lady there is, which contributes greatly to the film.

As James Bond is known as the best and most elegant spy, it would be fair, to say the least, that he drives the best and most elegant cars. Cue the Aston Martin DB-5 - the most famous Bond car in the world. Incidentally, in the very beginning Aston Martin didn't want to take part in the franchise, but thankfully they later on changed their mind.

When it comes to gadgets, the first thing that comes to mind is the admiration towards those, who come up with items as such. The imagination that busied their minds must have been infinite, because even though a certain gadget gets a maximum of 2 minutes screen time, looking from a wider point of view that includes all the James Bond films along with all the gadgets presented in them, James Bond would not be his true self if it weren't for all the gadgets and the childlike curiosity that overtook him whenever he was given one.

Ever since 1962, James Bond has slowly grown into an icon, leaving his footprint all over the world, increasing women's standards and influencing people's subjective view on the british culture and behaviour.

Those who haven't yet seen a film, or don't remember the one film you saw, please sit down on a lazy evening and give it a try. I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.

What is your opinion on James Bond? Don't hesitate to share!

x, Valens