Should play James Bond
-
nfaust1 — 16 years ago(December 19, 2009 06:44 PM)
Your point is well taken.
Rupert Penry-Jones could more than likely play just about anything. In MI-5, he shows an amazing range. The James Bond connection may have something to do with a kind of disappointment I've perpetually felt over the years. The films have gotten bigger, but not, in my opinion, better. Craig, too, is a good actor, but in the Bond role he seems to be playing a neanderthal in a tux. This approach bears little if any resemblance to the character Ian Fleming created. I know, movies don't have to follow the books they're based on. But still, I wonder, what's the point if the film makers feel a complete sociological makeover is necessary?
One things that draws me to Penry-Jones is how he so effortlessly conveys confusion and strength almost at the very same time. Which means that in some of the more outlandish moments on MI-5 we buy it because we buy him. Even when superhuman strength or mental computation is necessary, this actor never lets us forget his humanity. I think that's why he's so sexy. Certainly, part of it is bone structure, but not all. In the original Bond movies, the character was tainted with a slight suggestion of neurosis. When Connery goes into action mode, we see and sense his fear, anger, and even frustration. No one after Connery even seems to be trying for a character with a layer of neurotic subtext.
That's what Rupert brings to the TV show, and that's why I say he should be Bond. It is also my way of giving the actor a genuine compliment. Bond is an iconic character. Rupert is, on MI-5, equally iconic.