The most recent James Bond film, “Spectre,” featured a brooding, bearded Daniel Craig in the title role, bringing his eighth and final outing as the super spy. It was met with tepid reviews and underwhelming box office returns, prompting speculation that Craig had become too aged-looking to play Bond.
But now it seems the part may have been crafted for Robert Pattinson. Audiences may have liked his brooding presence in films like “Good Time,” but it was his serious, unkempt appearance in films like “Twilight” that made him an international star. Now, with “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” arriving in theaters this week, he finds himself in a new industry: movies based on books.
Is the 32-year-old English actor the new James Bond? Let’s take a look.
Early Life And Career
Robert Pattinson was born on September 21, 1984, in London, England. He grew up in a small village in southern England before moving to London at the age of 18. He briefly attended the University of East Anglia, but left school before obtaining a formal education.
He started his acting career in 2007 in the TV series “The Rover” and has since appeared in more than 40 films, including “Water for Elephants,” “The Four Feathers,” and “Tamara Drewe.” In 2013, he starred in the critically acclaimed movie “Twilight,” based on the novel of the same name. The role propelled him to international fame and earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
Pattinson also frequently works with his “Twilight” co-star Taylor Lautner, appearing in five films with the young upstart. The two began working together in 2011’s “The Twilight Saga: New Moon” and have since appeared in three more movies. With Lautner busy promoting “The Maze Runner,” Pattinson has found himself with more on-screen time than ever before.
Why Is He the New James Bond?
If you’re thinking about starring in a James Bond film, you have to wonder: does Daniel Craig still have what it takes to be the next Bond? After all, it’s been eight years since Craig last donned the trademark tuxedo, and he’s certainly not been idle since. The 64-year-old began working on his eighth and final James Bond film shortly after production on “Spectre” wrapped. While the part may have been written for him, this may be Craig’s last hurrah as Bond. Let’s take a look at why Robert Pattinson is the new James Bond.
He’s The Best In Class
As we’ve established, James Bond is a sophisticated spy. Although the character has existed in literary form since the 1930s, the James Bond films have updated his look and given him a makeover. While the older Bonds sported more “traditional” good looks — think Ralph Fiennes and Robert Redford — the likes of Craig and Pattinson give the spy a more dashing, contemporary appeal.
Pattinson in particular brings a brooding presence that perfectly fits the character. In addition, he is the best actor in the “Twilight” series, which makes him doubly suited to play Bond: he is in fact the franchise’s best actor. With his intense looks and natural charm, it’s no wonder why he’s been compared to a young, modern-day Sean Connery. Not only does he have the looks, but he also has the acting chops to back it up.
He Is Versatile
While Daniel Craig is undoubtedly one of the most decorated stars in the history of the James Bond franchise, it’s important to note that his role as Bond may be coming to an end. After all, the actor has played the character eight times, with seven films earning him an Academy Award nomination. In addition, the last film, “Spectre,” earned him a Golden Globe nomination, making him the first actor to receive this honor for playing Bond. But while Craig may be the actor in the most prominent role, it’s important to recognize that he has a stellar supporting cast. “Spectre” featured Judi Dench, Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, and Christoph Waltz. It’s not just about Craig; this is a star-studded cast.
He Has A World Of Experience
Even in his early years, Robert Pattinson displayed prodigious talents. Not only did he hold his own alongside established professionals like Alan Rickman and Stephen Fry, but he also wowed audiences at the premiere of “Twilight” with his acting chops. The role of Eric Northman in “Twilight” certainly wasn’t easy, but it was an acting challenge Pattinson was more than up for. He tackled the part with relish, and even went so far as to submit his own personal laundry list of demands for the part, including asking for a red Ferrari and a Rolex watch.
With “Twilight,” Pattinson established himself as a leading man and showed that he was more than capable of handling the biggest film challenges. He proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he was the perfect choice to play James Bond. The question is no longer whether or not he’s the next Bond, but rather when will he make his debut as the famous spy? With “Eclipse” hitting theaters this week, it’s time to find out.