Martin Campbell is done with Bond for now, but never say never
15-Jun-2010 • Bond News
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The director, who has worked with both Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig, said "Both brought the essence of James Bond and that is what a filmmaker wants at the end of the day. It would be unfair on my part to compare the two."
About his latest venture, Green Lantern based on the comic book, Campbell said: "This is going to be different from other comic book series because we have made a very different and an original story out of the character..."
Campbell, who is in his 70s, is promoting the big-screen adaptation of his BAFTA award-winning BBC mini-series Edge of Darkness. Having released in the US Jan 29, it is being released in India by PVR Pictures in association with GK Films Production June 25.
Excerpts from the exclusive interview:
Having wielded the megaphone for two Bond films, do we see you directing another one?
First of all it was a delight to work on both the Bond movies and quite an experience to work with both Pierce and Daniel. As of now I have no plan to direct a Bond film. I think I am done with it for now. But then never say never, one doesn't know what one does in future.
Who do you think makes a near perfect Bond, Pierce or Daniel?
Pierce and Daniel both brought the essence of James Bond and that is what a filmmaker wants at the end of the day. It would be unfair on my part to compare the two. The fact that Daniel's both Bond movies were a hit is enough to say he knows his job well.
What about Green Lantern? How different would it be from the comic book series?
Yes, I am doing Green Lantern. I'd never done a superhero movie before. His powers are psychological. They're to do with 'will' and the enemy is the 'fear', as opposed to Superman who sort of runs into a phone box, gets the old spandex on and off he goes.
This is going to be different from other comic book series because we have made a very different and an original story out of the character rather than just taking it from the comic book.
Is it true that Ryan Reynolds is playing the lead?
Yes, Ryan is playing the titular character in it.
Do you think Hollywood is on a comic book adaptation spree?
Yes, a lot of people are making superhero movies, but I'm very excited about my first superhero movie. If I am not wrong, superhero movies have always had a wide audience. Maybe it's just a coincidence that a lot of these movies are being made at the same time.
Coming to Edge of Darkness, how did you zero in on Gibson for the role?
Mel was the only person we had in mind for the role. We didn't have a second choice and I think we were very lucky to get him.
Considering his sabbatical, did Gibson appear rusted in front of the camera?
I certainly think he was a bit worried because after not being in front of a camera for eight years, anyone would be hesitant. He's one of the best actors in the world. The truth is that he's got the weight and we haven't got many of those. And an actor of his calibre can't suddenly forget to act, right? He had done his rehearsals before we started shooting. As soon as the camera got rolling, Mel did what he does best - acting!
Have you ever been to India or watched any Bollywood films?
Well, I think I'll have to chalk something out now (for an India visit). But no plans as of now... I have to do a lot of catching up on movies.
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