There are some literary characters that seem to transcend the realms of fiction and become stars in their own right. Among them is Ian Fleming’s secret agent James Bond who, thanks to the success of his creator’s books, with sales exceeding 100 million, and the subsequent film adaptations, has become not only a British icon, but world famous.
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the publication of the first Bond novel Casino Royale. It was published on 13 April 1953 by Jonathan Cape. The book finds 007 pitted against the Soviet agent Le Chiffre, and attempting to bankrupt him in the casino at the fictional French town of Royale-les-Eaux. All the essential hallmarks of Bond that we are now so familiar with are there including drama, exotic locations, ingenious gadgets, car chases and memorable characters. Casino Royale heralded the arrival of our hero in breathtaking style, and Fleming’s debut marked the start of a publishing and film sensation.
Since then, generations have been entertained and enthralled by Bond and the intoxicating mixture of adventure, glamour and escapism that the books and films provide. The author’s creative genius combined with his fast-paced narrative, filled with action and detail, works brilliantly. He paints a vivid picture of Bond and the world in which he operates. We know what he drinks, his weapon of choice, his car, what he smokes, and that he has a weakness for fine food, gambling and women.
Denne historien er fra April 2023-utgaven av Best of British.
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Denne historien er fra April 2023-utgaven av Best of British.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Animal Magic
Hilary Middleton recalls a children's author whose tales are still enjoyed today
BACK IN TIME WITH COLIN BAKER
BoB's very own Time Lord prepares for an alternative to panto, recalls his early reading choices and having his scenes cut from two cutting edge comedies
Marvels in Miniature
Claire Saul learns about the exquisite works on display at a new exhibition being held at a historic Georgian mansion
The Last Post
Michael Foley witnessed the end of an era
The Box of Delights
Chris Hallam remembers how his Christmas 40 years ago was lit up by a magical television drama
The Queen of Stage and Screen
Chris Hallam pays tribute to actress Dame Maggie Smith
Other 07
Jonathan Sothcott looks at the seven Sir Roger Moore films that you should have in your collection
In the Best Possible Taste
Derek Lamb remembers the wireless wizardry of Kenny Everett
POSTCARD FROM BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
Bob Barton remembers a ghostly train journey, enjoys some wassailing and fulfils a long-held ambition of attending a lawnmower festival
MERCY MISSION
John Greeves recounts the remarkable exploits of Sunderland flying boat T9114
