What we might see and hear in Danny Boyle’s Bond 25
By David Pegram
We’re now six months away from principal shooting of Bond 25. Aside from the typical tabloid rumors, not much has been leaked about the film’s storyline, cast, or filming locations. So we’re left guessing on each of those elements. But that can be half the fun at this point.
Right now, Boyle is filming a Beatles-inspired musical, starring Ana de Armas and Lily James. Then, he will jump into Bond 25. So what burning questions might we be asking, in regards to a Boyke-directed Bond film? Let’s dive in.
What can be learned from Boyle’s work on “Happy and Glorious,” the 2012 Olympics short, starring Danny Craig?
For one, that Craig and Boyle have already worked together. This may seem irrelevant, but Craig had already collaborated with Sam Mendes (in Road to Perdition, in 2002), and the result was a spectacular success, with Skyfall. Furthermore, Boyle is not afraid to use humor, even at Bond’s expense, as seen in the short film when the Queen makes Bond wait for her to finish writing a note.
Who will return from Spectre?
Ralph Fiennes, Naomie Harris, Ben Whishaw, and Rory Kinnear all figured prominently in the past two films. So far, only Whishaw has seemed to confirm his involvement. But it is also highly likely that Harris will return, given her past collaborations with Boyle (28 Days Later and Frankenstein). A film with Whishaw and Harris would then (seemingly) need to include Fiennes and Kinnear, too.
Who will portray the villain?
Well, it seems that Christoph Waltz is out and that Hodge and Boyle do not plan to pick up where Spectre left off. For the villain, it is possible that Boyle will cast an actor with whom he has collaborated before. Ewan McGregor is a possibility, as is Cillian Murphy. But we can probably count out Robert Carlyle, of course.
Who will play a Bond girl?
Again, if Boyle’s past collaborations serve as a clue, then Rose Byrne is a possibility. But don’t count on it. Instead, Boyle might turn to one of the young actresses on his current film: de Armas or James. Either would be a solid choice.
Who will sing the theme song?
It is anyone’s guess at this point. But fans should keep two points in mind: 1. No British rock band has performed with the theme since Duran Duran in 1985; 2. Boyle brought in Arctic Monkeys to perform at the 2012 Olympics opening ceremony.
Who will compose the film’s score?
Thomas Newman is not expected to return. So the job might fall back to David Arnold, who also worked on the 2012 Olympics. But the more likely selection is Daniel Pemberton, who has collaborated with Boyle before and is now working on the current musical. Note: Pemberton wrote a rousing score for The Man from UNCLE.
As summer turns to fall, many of these questions will be officially answered. Until then, stay tuned. Check back for more news and updates.