Being James Bond

Daniel Craig's long and complex tenure as the iconic spy James Bond comes to a close with the 25th installment, No Time To Die. In this candid and introspective documentary, "Being James Bond," Craig delves into the intricacies of embodying the legendary character, sharing an in-depth look at his personal memories and experiences throughout his 14-year journey as 007. The documentary begins with Craig discussing his initial foray into the world of Bond, reflecting on the film that marked the beginning of his tenure, GoldenEye's 1995 predecessor, GoldenEye's predecessor's 1995 predecessor - Golden Eagle, no. Casino Royale. Released in 2006, the film marked a fresh start for the franchise, departing from the tradition of Pierce Brosnan's era. Craig opens up about the grueling physical preparation and the challenges he faced in embodying the character, drawing from his own experiences as a method actor to craft a raw and vulnerable portrayal of Bond. Craig is accompanied by veteran 007 producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, who share their perspectives on Craig's time as Bond. Wilson reveals how Craig's take on the character was met with initial skepticism, citing concerns that his grittier approach would alienate long-time fans. However, as the franchise evolved, it became clear that Craig's Bond was a welcome change, bringing a new level of depth and complexity to the character. Broccoli reminisces about Craig's passion and dedication to the role, which inspired a new generation of actors to join the franchise. As the documentary progresses, Craig takes the audience through his experiences on various sets, sharing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and stories from his time on location with No Time To Die. He reflects on the camaraderie shared with co-stars like Léa Seydoux, Rami Malek, and Lashana Lynch, and the impact that the cast and crew had on his portrayal of the iconic character. Craig also shares his memories of shooting pivotal scenes, including the high-octane opening sequence of Skyfall and the claustrophobic tension of the Aston Martin DB5's chase scenes. Throughout his tenure, Craig has consistently pushed the boundaries of on-screen action and stunts, often performing many of his own stunts despite the risks involved. As he reminisces about his most memorable moments on set, it becomes clear that Craig's dedication to the role has not only endeared him to fans but also raised the bar for future generations of action stars. Throughout the documentary, archival footage takes center stage, offering a unique glimpse into the making of Bond films. Clips from Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, Skyfall, Spectre, and No Time To Die are woven seamlessly into the narrative, illustrating the progression of Craig's portrayal of Bond and the growth of the franchise as a whole. In addition to its focus on Craig's tenure as Bond, the documentary also offers a deeper exploration of the behind-the-scenes mechanics of the franchise. Craig's conversations with Wilson and Broccoli delve into the creative decisions that have guided the series for over five decades, from the iconic score of the Bond theme to the innovative cinematography that has become a hallmark of the films. As Craig nears the end of his 14-year tenure as Bond, it becomes clear that his influence on the franchise will be lasting. With a newfound appreciation for the character and a deeper understanding of the complexities of bringing him to life, the documentary serves as a poignant tribute to Craig's dedication and passion for the role. As No Time To Die brings his tenure as Bond to a close, "Being James Bond" stands as a testament to Craig's impact on the iconic character and the enduring legacy of the James Bond franchise.