Bond Swaps Womanising For Romance (Press, 7 July 1987)
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Summary: Bond Swaps Womanising For Romance (Press, 7 July 1987)
Timothy Dalton has made his debut as the new James Bond in "The Living Daylights," which premiered recently. This marks a significant shift in the portrayal of the iconic secret agent, moving away from the traditional womanising image to one that emphasises romance and safe sex. The British press has noted that Dalton's Bond is more credible and resourceful in action while focusing on a single romantic relationship rather than casual encounters. The tabloid "Star" highlighted that Dalton's Bond is "no bed-hopping Bond," and praised his performance, which was characterised as tough yet sensitive. Similarly, the conservative "Daily Telegraph" supported this view, commenting that Dalton's portrayal is marked by a newfound "dependable Britishness." Instead of seducing multiple women, this version of Bond appears committed to falling in love with just one. "The Times" described Dalton's portrayal as "suitably English," with the review indicating that he brings a serious tone to the role, in contrast to the previous actors. The review noted that while Sean Connery was characterised by irony and Roger Moore by a flamboyant approach, Dalton adopts an intense persona, making it clear that he takes Bond's responsibilities seriously. However, not all reviews were wholly positive. The "Daily Mail" expressed some reservations, suggesting that Dalton's performance sometimes lacked the charisma of his predecessors. The critic noted that Dalton's approach to his heroine resembled "the romantic diffidence of a management trainee escorting the boss’s daughter," implying a more subdued and restrained depiction of romance. Overall, Dalton's entry into the Bond franchise signifies a shift towards a more modern interpretation of the character, reflecting societal changes and contemporary attitudes towards relationships and sexuality. As the sixteenth film in the series, "The Living Daylights" aims to resonate with audiences in the context of the 1980s, particularly in light of evolving conversations around safe sex in the era of AIDS.
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