Unfortunately for Bond fans everywhere, the filmmakers of the new movie Skyfall made a deal with Heineken USA to advertise their beer. Does this mean James Bond won’t be asking for his usual martini; shaken, not stirred? Sadly, most likely.
You can’t really fault Heineken for wanting this. It’s a chance to advertise to millions of people through a very popular character that many men aspire/pretend to be like. It’s a smart marketing move.
The producers for Skyfall though, you can place blame on. James Bond is a long established character with particular tastes. There’s certain traits that fans expect from Bond despite what actor plays him. His penchant for martinis is one of them.
The producers are blatantly lying that it’s a good deal for the franchise, but why wouldn’t they? Their thoughts of, “Money, money, money!” wouldn’t translate well with the fans of 007. They’re delusional to think that there won’t be any backlash for the decision.
Over the years we’ve seen an amazing character turn into something… well, lame. Of course, there are several classic additions to the collection of Bond movies that one can argue “aren’t too great”, but Bond still retained that fan-loved persona. Without knowing it, I watched 20 minutes of a Bond movie before someone informed me that it was 007. The feel of the movie was completely different than any of the previous movies.
Sadly, I’m not surprised they’re converting Bond’s image into a beer drinking, bang bang action star. Bond was never Prince Charming, but he enthralled and entertained men and women. He’s really lost his charm and sarcastic but classy badassness that I adored growing up.
R.I.P. 007 We will miss you greatly!