James Bond `fans` threaten to boycott 007 film

23-Feb-2006 • Casino Royale

James Bond fans angered by the decision to cast actor Daniel Craig as 007 have launched a website threatening to boycott the new film Casino Royale - reports the BBC.

The web site, www.craignotbond.com, calls on fans "to stop Sony and Eon [Productions] from ruining the future of James Bond by hiring Daniel Craig".

But former Bond star Pierce Brosnan has defended his successor. "I think Daniel is a very fine actor," said Brosnan.

"These are rocky waters, but I think he will have the last laugh."

Speaking at the UK premiere of black comedy The Matador, Brosnan said he had every sympathy for Craig, who was reportedly injured while filming a fight sequence for Casino Royale in the Czech Republic.

"You get twisted some way or another if you throw yourself into it. There's going to be mishaps," said the 52-year-old star, who plays a washed-up hitman in his new film.

British actor Craig, 37, was announced as the sixth James Bond in October last year.

Best-known for his roles in gangster thriller Layer Cake and the recent Spielberg drama Munich, he has been the subject of media criticism since he made his debut as the secret agent at a lacklustre press conference.

The craignotbond.com website criticises brother and sister producing team, Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson, for replacing Brosnan - "the most beloved actor to play Bond since Sean Connery" - with Craig.

"How can a short, blond actor with the rough face of a professional boxer and a penchant for playing killers, cranks, cads and gigolos pull off the role of a tall, dark, handsome and suave secret agent?" the site demands.

"This is what happens when you lose touch with public opinion. By casting Craig, Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson have proven once and for all that they care little for the opinions of Bond fans."

Earlier this week, veteran actor Christopher Lee called on critics to give the new Bond star a chance.

"People should not pass judgment until they have seen the film," said Lee, a former Bond villain and a distant cousin of 007 creator Ian Fleming.

Thanks to `Ali Kerim Bey` for the alert.