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| Jonathan Cape (UK) |
I think that today is rather unique because today in 1953
saw the UK book release of Casino Royale,
the very first James Bond novel from Ian Fleming. And in 1967, Casino
Royale the film version starring David
Niven was released in the UK.
I read the novel for the first time probably about two years
ago and do need to revisit it again. I enjoyed Fleming’s storytelling,
especially his lengthy description of the high-stakes game of baccarat. If
memory serves me correctly, I did find some of Fleming’s terminology towards
women a bit dated, but overall, I quite liked the novel.
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| Casino Royale (1967) movie poster (Wikipedia) |
I cannot say the same of the 1967 comedic version in which
there were too many Bonds (even if it was meant to confuse SMERSH), too many
directors, and too much mayhem. After becoming the Area Chair for James Bond
Studies, I wanted to watch this version of Casino Royale, but when I finally did, I was sadly disappointed.
Although Bond knock-offs and spoofs were very popular and rather fun to watch,
I found this satirical offering a jumbled mess and jarring. In addition,
because the novel and 2006 filmic version are favorites of mine, my
dissatisfaction of this version was intensified. It was a waste of several
talented people.
If you haven’t read the book, by all means, it’s well worth
it, but pass on the 1967 film and watch the 2006 version again.
© Copyright. Michele
Brittany. 2011 - 2015. All rights reserved. All text, graphics, and photos are
protected by US and International Copyright Laws, and may not be copied,
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