Date: 5th October 2012

James Bond Marks 50 Years On Big Screen


Fifty years ago today James Bond first hit the big screen.

In that time, thanks to the original vision of producers Harry Saltzman and Cubby Broccoli, the 007 franchise has grown to become worth an estimated £1bn.

According to its producers, the key to its success is in constantly refreshing the original formula - while also constantly referring back to the original text.

Cubby's daughter Barbara told Sky News they always refer to Ian Fleming's stories when they are unsure where next to take the spy.

"That's what Cubby used to say, whenever you have a problem, go back to Fleming and you'll find the solution. And it's worked. Whenever we're stumped, we re-read the novels and get a hit of Fleming and the solution usually comes."

Michael G Wilson, Cubby Broccoli's stepson and Bond producer, says Fleming was not only a great writer he was also very knowledgeable about his subject matter.

"He was a great storyteller, he created a wonderful character but he also knew the whole world of the secret service, having worked in it during the Second World War," he said.

"He was an accurate writer and could encapsulate things in a very short amount of time."

Despite 007's longevity, the films have had many near-death experiences, just like its hero. There have been personal rifts, financial woes and multiple incarnations.

There have been 22 films and six actors who have played Bond. The film spy has become a worldwide phenomenon, with the cars, gadgets and girls becoming embedded in popular culture.

Source: Press Release