This review is spoiler-free.

A promise five years in the making

First Light was announced on November 19, 2020, under the working title Project 007. The world looked very different back then: we were still dealing with the aftermath of a pandemic, No Time to Die (2021) had finally arrived after multiple delays, and James Bond was still under the stewardship of EON Productions. It felt like a promising time for the franchise, which seemed ready to move again after a five-year hiatus.

Things turned out differently. Not only has major news regarding the next Bond film remained absent to this day, but IO Interactive also stayed remarkably quiet. They guarded the game as closely as MI6 itself would: no leaks, no screenshots, only the occasional update that development was progressing “steadily and according to plan.” In the end, it would take five years before we saw the first footage.

From the announcement onward, IOI made it clear that they intended to put their own spin on the Bond story while remaining faithful to the foundations laid by Ian Fleming and EON Productions. First Light even promised to go further back than Casino Royale (2006), telling what it called Bond’s “very first origin story.”

From stealth to a Kill

Partly due to the debacle known as 007 Legends, IO Interactive received a clear directive from EON Productions: “Bond is not a running machine gun.” Barbara Broccoli’s frustration with the Activision era became the foundation of IOI’s approach. To avoid repeating those mistakes, the studio developed a unique gameplay concept built around the most famous aspect of Bond’s profession: his Licence to Kill.

The escalation system works exceptionally well. Bond doesn’t immediately start shooting whenever he infiltrates a location, exactly as you would expect from a professional agent. The Licence to Kill mechanic naturally encourages stealth as the primary option. It works surprisingly well—and, more importantly, it’s a lot of fun. Thanks to the Q Lens, it’s easy to track enemy positions, while the multiple routes available in each level recall the very best of the Hitman franchise. The result is varied gameplay that allows you to approach missions however you prefer: eavesdropping on npc’s (non-playable characters), conducting investigations, using the environment to your advantage, or eliminating targets with gadgets. This is where First Light truly shines.

If you’re discovered, fighting is often the best option, as long as bullets haven’t started flying yet. Bond’s hand-to-hand combat feels fantastic: powerful, varied, and packed with satisfying weight behind every strike. Between combos, throws, and environmental takedowns, melee combat is better than it has ever been in a Bond game.

Prolonged escalation eventually leads to gunplay, and the game excels there as well. The animation of Bond smoothly picking up weapons, lifted straight out of No Time to Die, feels quintessentially Bond. Ammunition is scarce, forcing you to carefully consider every confrontation. Bond’s Instinct ability, a limited form of slow motion, helps level the playing field. IOI makes deliberate design choices that align with both Broccoli’s vision and the studio’s Hitman expertise, and the result works brilliantly.

The return of gadgets and vehicles

When fists and firearms aren’t enough, you can rely on your gadgets. They feel modern while still leaving room for classic elements from the older films. The Q Lens clearly indicates which gadget can be used in any given situation. Every gadget consumes resources—battery power for your watch, chemicals for other devices—meaning you can’t endlessly experiment without consequence. Run out of resources, and you’ll need to find another solution.

Fortunately, resources are easy to replenish if you pay attention to your surroundings. Early on, you’re limited to two gadgets and your watch, but later you’ll gain access to a third slot. The variety is impressive, although it’s easy to stick with a few personal favorites. The relationship between Q and Bond is also portrayed very effectively; Q quickly feels like a genuine friend, something this younger Bond desperately needs.

Vehicles also make their return. One minor disappointment is that they occasionally do a little too much for you. Modern cars may come equipped with lane assist and adaptive cruise control, but when I’m playing a game, I want to drive myself rather than feel guided every step of the way. It’s also a missed opportunity that Bond constantly switches between vehicles. As a result, you never really develop an attachment to a specific car, despite that being one of the strongest recurring elements in many Bond films and their most iconic vehicles.

Even so, the cars and boats are a welcome addition, and the sequences featuring them are impressively executed. There is certainly plenty to enjoy whenever Bond gets behind the wheel.

Vibrant environments packed with details

The level design is frequently outstanding. The game subtly nudges you in the right direction while fully embracing a sandbox structure. Environments are richly detailed, npc’s engage in lively conversations, and the world feels alive. There are also various collectibles to be found throughout the game world. These cannot be viewed in the main menu, but they can be found in the SimTac environment in the basement of Q Lab.

Find yourself somewhere you shouldn’t be and an NPC starts asking difficult questions? That’s when James’ inner Klaus Hergersheimer comes to the rescue. With minimal effort and a healthy dose of confidence, he effortlessly talks his way out of awkward situations, whether dealing with civilians or enemies. Bond always seems to have a clever quip ready for every encounter.

Each location has its own distinct atmosphere and offers multiple ways to complete objectives, greatly increasing replay value. Throughout the levels you’ll discover countless collectibles and references that Bond enthusiasts will adore. IOI has clearly watched the films and read the novels. The references don’t stop there, either, as there are numerous nods to other Bond media, including continuation authors and older games from previous publishers.

Who is this young Bond?

The 26-year-old Bond we play has already experienced a great deal, but he has not yet become the ruthless agent we know. He is fresh, optimistic, and still a work in progress. As the game progresses, we learn more about his past and gradually begin to recognize the man he will eventually become.

Patrick Gibson delivers an excellent young Bond. His voice may not sound traditionally Bond-like, but his interpretation feels believable. His expressions, posture, and attitude toward authority all feel exactly right. There’s a mischievous glint in his eye, and his chemistry with the rest of the cast works effortlessly.

At times, however, the script feels slightly off. Bond apparently has seen Reservoir Dogs (1992) and understands internet memes. That’s amusing enough, but other dialogue choices don’t always fit. Words like “mate” or “lads” feel distinctly un-Bond-like, even for a younger version of the character. Occasionally, he lacks that final touch of style and exclusivity that defines James Bond. Perhaps that reflects a world where every influencer and celebrity is expected to be relatable, but I still expect a little more class from 007.

Story: A Threat That Doesn’t Fully Land

The marketing carefully avoided revealing who 009 is, who the man in the golden mask might be, or whether they’re even the same person. IOI focused primarily on Bond’s journey toward earning his 00 status rather than on the central threat itself. While Bond is portrayed strongly, the threat never feels quite as compelling.

Although the plot surrounding this threat is logically constructed, it never fully grabbed me. IOI studied the films so thoroughly that they unfortunately inherited some of their weaker and more familiar story beats as well. Many plot developments felt predictable or overly recognizable, reducing their impact. At times, the game feels like a rehash of storylines we’ve already seen too often—such as yet another rogue agent narrative, something familiar from both GoldenEye (1995) and Skyfall (2012).

One aspect is particularly well executed, however: the question of whether Bond will ultimately be betrayed by someone close to him. First Light creates an atmosphere where characters constantly walk the line between ethical and moral boundaries, and the cast sells that tension convincingly. Almost everyone ended up on my suspect list at one point, without any obvious clues pointing the way. The resulting sense of mystery kept me invested in the story even when the larger threat did not.

TacSim: Q Branch’s training ground

Players who aren’t interested in the story can head to Q’s TacSim, a training facility reminiscent of the VR sequence from Die Another Day (2002). Here, you can practice combat, gunplay, and various scenarios without narrative interruptions. Completing challenges unlocks outfits, gadgets, and upgrades.

It’s enjoyable, but not nearly as compelling as the story mode. That’s largely because outfits can only be used inside TacSim, despite the game’s marketing placing significant emphasis on them. It would have been far more appealing if players could switch outfits during the campaign, similar to From Russia with Love (2005). As it stands, part of the marketing feels like a false promise. I want to use my unlocked outfits, and especially the outfits some players paid extra for, whenever I choose.

Sure, it may not make much sense to stroll through a tropical paradise in a Royal Navy combat suit while sipping cocktails, but the gamer in me still craves that freedom. Because the marketing focused so heavily on outfits, it’s disappointing to see those options restricted in story mode. Particularly when that mode is considerably more enjoyable than TacSim itself.

The Foundation: Glacier Engine

First Light runs on IO Interactive’s proprietary Glacier engine, and its capabilities are on full display. I played on Xbox Series X, and every environment not only looks stunning but also loads quickly and smoothly.

Bugs are extremely rare, and the few I encountered were so minor that I quickly forgot about them. Luckily, the game is simply too enjoyable to dwell on such issues. The only time I became stuck was hardly a problem thanks to the generous checkpoint system, which ensures you’re never far from your most recent progress. The Glacier engine handles an enormous amount with apparent ease and, much like Bond himself, makes it look effortless.

Music and title sequence are a celebration of familiarity and flair

First Light clearly excels on a technical level. Equally important, however, is the music, which plays a huge role in shaping the atmosphere throughout the experience. The brass section hits hard and provides a constant sense of familiarity for Bond fans. Iconic riffs from the films regularly return, and when required, the score becomes gloriously bombastic. At its best, gameplay, action, and music come together in perfect harmony, bringing the action sequences to life.

It helps that the soundtrack doesn’t just sound cinematic; the title sequence itself demonstrates a clear appreciation for the work of EON Productions. The opening feels as though it could have been created by Daniel Kleinman himself and stands shoulder to shoulder with the title sequences from the Craig era. Even the way names appear onscreen (with the same Century Gothic font used in the films, complete with matching timing and animation) feels entirely authentic.

The visual style draws heavily on familiar Bond imagery, including Bond’s running silhouette. At the same time, the game establishes its own identity through a striking golden color palette and oversized chess pieces. In doing so, IOI may have delivered the most authentic Bond film experience ever brought to consoles.

Conclusion

FFirst Light is an extremely welcome addition, especially after the Bond drought of recent years. The game offers beautiful environments, strong level design, fluid gameplay, and excellent performance. Patrick Gibson delivers a convincing young Bond, while the world feels alive, detailed, and packed with references fans will appreciate.

Although the story occasionally stumbles and can be somewhat predictable, those shortcomings are more than compensated for by the game’s superb atmosphere, clever Licence to Kill mechanic, and the variety offered by stealth, combat, and gadgets. The Glacier engine also delivers an impressive technical showcase, with minimal bugs and fast loading times.

IO Interactive has brought a Gen Z James Bond into the 21st century and successfully prepared 007 for a new generation of fans without losing sight of the franchise’s rich history.

00 status for IO Interactive confirmed.

First Light is now available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC (Steam and Epic Games Store). A release date for Nintendo Switch 2 has not yet been announced.

Het bericht Review: First Light puts James Bond in a new light (spoiler free) verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

In the Austrian region of Vorarlberg lies the village of Sankt Gallenkirch. It’s the heart of the Silvretta Montafon ski area. I’ve settled here with my father for two weeks to enjoy the fresh Alpine air. During our vacation, we’re treated to everything this breathtaking region has to offer: icy cold days, half a meter of snow, exciting hikes, stunning views, and Kaiserwetter. That is something James Bond would definitely enjoy here: clear blue skies and winter sun shining over freshly fallen snow. The chalet where my father and I are staying could easily serve as a location in a Bond film.

As I read Darker Than The Sun, I easily imagine the Austrian locations from the movies. Sölden, for example, is just an hour away. Because of the weather, the locations from Spectre (2015) can’t be visited. Authors Ajay Chowdhury and Matthew Field describe the Alps as the kind of place Ian Fleming, James Bond’s creator, stayed during a difficult mental period when he was eighteen. He stayed in the ski village of Kitzbühel, nearly two hundred kilometers from Sölden, the place where Fleming learned to ski and to write.

Locations

Darker Than The Sun: An Atlas of James Bond Movie Locations covers the filming locations from the 25 ‘official’ James Bond films. It’s important to note that the authors refer only to the EON Productions films. So don’t expect information about Never Say Never Again (1983) or the two Casino Royale productions from 1954 and 1967.

It’s impressive that Ajay and Matthew managed to fit so much information about the films into such a compact, nearly square book. It’s the kind of guide you can easily slip into your bag while discovering Bond film locations.

This leads naturally to the comparison with that other Bond travel guide: On the Tracks of 007. After thirty years, that book has become an icon in the Bond community.

However, it focuses more on exploring the locations yourself rather than the stories behind them. It’s also very much the personal journey of Martijn Mulder, the man behind the book. Saying that the two books are identical would be far too easy.

Background Information

This atlas of James Bond film locations is more than just a travel guide. The authors provide detailed descriptions of each location and clearly choose to include a lot of background information. That makes the book truly unique in the niche it occupies. A few examples that stood out to me:

In the chapter on For Your Eyes Only (1981), we learn that cooperation with the monks of the Aghia Triatha monastery didn’t run smoothly. In the film, this is where the final confrontation between Kristatos and Bond takes place, as they battle over the ATAC device (used by the British to communicate with their Polaris submarines). According to producer Michael Wilson, many monks were unhappy with the film crew’s presence.

The monks believed they would receive a more generous financial contribution. As a result, they frequently protested against the crew’s presence. Producer Albert Broccoli managed to calm tensions by making a substantial donation to their charitable fund.

The finale of The World Is Not Enough (1999), set on the Bosporus in Istanbul, presented the filmmakers with different challenges. How do you prevent international maritime traffic from sailing straight through your scenes? Screenwriters Neal Purvis and Robert Wade explain in Darker Than The Sun that chains were once used—stretched between Kiz Kulesi, Maiden’s Tower, and the mainland.

Maiden’s Tower, an 11th-century lighthouse, is where Elektra imprisons Bond and M. For the production, a submarine was placed there, which successfully kept shipping at bay and created a spectacular finale. Today, the lighthouse is a restaurant.

Special Maps

An atlas wouldn’t be complete without topographic maps, and Darker Than The Sun certainly delivers. But the creators added something special: the locations are plotted partly based on cast and crew movements. This adds a dynamic layer to the book.

To incorporate fictional locations—often filmed at Pinewood Studios—into Bond’s journeys, the authors provide a complete overview. Bond’s travels, and those of other characters, are illustrated with photos and stories. Each chapter begins with a map of the full journey, followed by more detailed focus throughout the chapter.

Authors

Ajay Chowdhury and Matthew Field are well-known figures in the James Bond world. They previously co-authored Some Kind of Hero, one of the most extensive reference works on the films, full of anecdotes and stories from cast and crew.

With Spy Octane: The Vehicles of James Bond, Volume One, you dive into the world of cars, boats, and other vehicles from the films. This stunning coffee-table book, full of photos and stories, is a real eye-catcher.

I’m certain we’ll hear more from these authors in the future—especially since more volumes of Spy Octane have already been announced. These men live and breathe James Bond, and I’m privileged to call them my friends.

A Clear Conclusion

If I had to translate the book into a star rating, there’s no way around it: five stars. No more, no less. Darker Than The Sun offers a unique perspective on the world of James Bond and gives readers plenty of ideas to immerse themselves in the world of 007.

The book is full of background information and includes many anecdotes from cast and crew. The per-film maps are a fantastic addition and, after nearly twenty years in the Bond community, they gave me a fresh perspective on the world of 007.

Darker Than The Sun: An Atlas of James Bond Movie Locations is available on Amazon for 35.99 euro. Currently, the American tech giant offers a 36% discount on the Ivy Press publication, bringing the price down to 22.99 euro.

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A new director, two producers, and a scriptwriter are currently working on Bond 26. These are all well-established names in the film industry. Benjamin, Johan, and I recently discussed them plus a few topics beyond Bond. Here are some highlights.

The director: Denis Villeneuve

Amazon MGM Studios has brought acclaimed director Denis Villeneuve on board for Bond 26. Villeneuve is best known for Dune and Sicario. His latest project, Dune: Part Three, is still in production, which raises the question: will his schedule delay Bond?

We all agree that filming and directing is a time-consuming job. Benjamin isn’t much of a science fiction fan. But he loves Sicario. A film about a Mexican drugwar starring Emily Blunt and Benicio Del Toro, for us Bond-fans known as Dario in Licence to Kill (1989).

Johan likes the Dune-films. He loves the story and breathtaking cinematography. Villeneuve is new for me. But I give him a fair chance and tell the others that Villeneuve doesn’t have the final cut on Bond 26. Other directors might not be interested in making the film. So, that could be the issue why the pre-production start for Bond 26 took so long.

The producers: David Heyman and Amy Pascal

Amy Pascal is no stranger to Bond — she was a Sony Pictures board member during the release of Casino Royale (2006), Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), and Spectre (2015). David Heyman, meanwhile, is renowned for producing the Harry Potter-films and is also working on the upcoming Harry Potter-TV series for HBO.

We’re optimistic about this duo. Their fresh perspective could reinvigorate the franchise, though much will depend on their casting decisions. Benjamin, Johan and I believe Bond should be portrayed by a relatively unknown actor in his mid-thirties — someone who can grow into the role, not an actor already tied to Marvel or DC. Whether Pascal and Heyman take bold risks or stick to tradition remains to be seen.

The script writer: Steven Knight

The script will be written by Steven Knight, creator of Peaky Blinders. Benjamin is especially pleased, highlighting Knight’s sharp storytelling and complex characters. Johan and I are less familiar with his work, but Benjamin describes how Cillian Murphy brought Thomas Shelby to life as the leader of a Birmingham crime family. Knight is also the writer of Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, in The Netherlands known as Weekend Miljonairs.

We hope Knight crafts a strong, standalone Bond adventure, rather than a heavily interconnected saga like the James Bond Daniel Craig films. Those sprawling story arcs recently struggled at the box office — as did Marvel’s last efforts.

Wishes for Bond 26

Could Bond 26 be filmed in the Netherlands or Germany? While Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Berlin and Hamburg would make great backdrops, their tax incentives are less attractive compared to Poland, Hungary or Belgium. The United States is also a possibility, given Amazon MGM’s involvement.

I suggest South Africa, with Table Mountain and national parks offering striking scenery. Johan argues for New Zealand, with its versatile landscapes — from winter action sequences to rainforest chases. We all agree it could be spectacular.

Het bericht Talking Bond 26 and beyond with The Bond Bulletin verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

He was chosen, with a bit of luck on his side, for the role of the mysterious assassin with a Walkman around his neck. I interviewed him on the occasion of our then customary film months.

JamesBondNL: I just returned from another spy film, Kingsman: The Golden Circle, and it features a hilarious set of cameo’s from Sir Elton John. You actually made your debut as a cameo in perhaps one of Elton’s most famous videoclips, Nikita. How did that happen?
Andreas Wisniewski: “A distinguished looking man at a West End party started talking to me and a few minutes later he offered me a part in “a music video”. The man turned out to be the great Ken Russell [regisseur “Women In Love”, 1969] and the videoclip for Elton John’s “Nikita”.”

JamesBondNL: The song is actually about a female border control guard stationed in East-Berlin. You were actually born in Berlin. Do you recall something of the Cold War tensions between East- and West-Berlin?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Sure I do. I used to live in Spandau near a military practise ground. I recall the sound of bombs exploding in the middle of the night. That was quite scary, until we became aware that it was an exercise. The everyday practicalities between East and West in Berlin were banal, though. Humans dealing with humans. The Cold War was clearly made by politicians, not the people.”

JamesBondNL: It was in Germany where you started your career as a classical dancer in the Bayerische Staatsoper, yet you didn’t further pursue a life as a ballet dancer. Could you elaborate on that?
Andreas Wisniewski: “At 25 I was already too old, too decrepit, and fed up. I am kidding haha. Well, a bit. Mainly, though, by that time I had my first experiences of acting on stage as well as in a (student) film. There was no turning back, I had tasted the ‘blood’ of acting.”

JamesBondNL: So British director Ken Russell basically discovered you. Then you went to London to appear in his horror film Gothic. How was that experience for you, including moving all the way from Germany to London?
Andreas Wisniewski: “I moved to the United States first. But I went broke quite quickly. So I returned to London where I had studied ballet. It was easy. I owned two suitcases full of stuff. I packed them. And left.”

JamesBondNL: The late Sir Roger Moore once said “During my early acting years I was told that to succeed you needed personality, talent and luck in equal measure…….I contest that. For me it’s been 99% luck”. Isn’t that a bit of a sad fact of working in film? Knowing that so many potential actors in the end are not able to get that big dream job?
Andreas Wisniewski: “One can see it that way. But in Zen there is a saying “Better to wear shoes than cover the whole Earth in leather”. In other words oughtn’t I to find a way for myself to deal with it since ‘changing the industry” does not seem a viable option?”

JamesBondNL: So regarding that ‘luck’ then, how did you eventually got the part of Necros in The Living Daylights? Where there more contenders for that role?
Andreas Wisniewski: “That was 100% luck yes. The character description of Necros was a description of me.”

“In Zen there is a saying: “Better to wear shoes than cover the whole Earth in leather”. In other words….oughtn’t I find a way for myself to deal with it since “changing the industry” does not seem a viable option?”

JamesBondNL: How did the introduction happened between you and the rest of the cast from The Living Daylights? More specifically, how was your relationship on set with Dutch actor Jeroen Krabbé?
Andreas Wisniewski: “I remember having a few good conversations with Jeroen. He was painting while we were in Morocco, and we sat in his trailer and chatted.”

JamesBondNL: And while on set, did your work as a ballet dancer gave you a head start during fight rehearsals with stuntman Bill Weston?
Andreas Wisniewski: “On some level, yes. What ballet does well is developing the kinesthetic senses, and so the increased awareness of one’s body is a good platform upon which one can mimick all kinds of things. But there are also mannerisms that dancers tend to have that look unnatural and that one needs to get rid of as best as possible.”

JamesBondNL: Earlier we were talking about political tensions between East- and West Berlin during the Cold War. Today cyber terrorism seems to do a lot of damage to the world (think about Skyfall). Do you think the James Bond films, since The Living Daylights, have changed a bit from a geopolitical perspective?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Yes and no. There is still always the Bondian Ubervillain. And who would want to lose him?”

JamesBondNL: Did you and your family (your kids) see any of the more recent Bond films? And what do you think of them in comparison to The Living Daylights?
Andreas Wisniewski: “We all like the more realistic angle that the 007 movies tend to take us nowadays. Daniel Craig is also my favourite Bond. That works better for me……if I can believe that the man is homicidal….”

JamesBondNL: Was your role in a Bond film helpful for your next feature film?
Andreas Wisniewski: “To be honest? No.”

JamesBondNL: Do you think there’s a difference between working on a British/European production and an American production after you worked on Die Hard?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Both of these were super-professional productions. In addition to that the Bond set was incredibly relaxed.”

JamesBondNL: You actually continued working on spy/action franchises, like the Mission: Impossible-franchise. But doesn’t it make you afraid of being typecasted as a bad guy? Or should certain actors be happy for the fact that typecasting brings in jobs?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Afraid of being typecasted at my age? I’d be quite happy to play another twenty villains. If those were offered…. Worrying about that sort of stuff is for young people.”

JamesBondNL: Regarding Mission: Impossible 1 and Mission: Impossible 4 – Ghost Protocol, how did you get the roles? And did you actually play the same character in both of them?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Yes, the same character was the idea. By the time we shot Mission IV I had practically no hair. They gave me the wig to identify the character. For Mission IV I was contacted on Facebook! Three days later I was in Dubai.”

JamesBondNL: In the first Mission: Impossible film you are Vanessa Redgrave’s sidekick. How was it working with a British Oscar-winning actress like Vaness Redgrave?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Vanessa was great. I didn’t have many scenes with her, mainly because I didn’t have many scenes. But we talked on the set. About social issues if I remember correctly. I have also worked with Joely and Natasha, Vanessa’s daughters, and once had breakfast with her ex-husband Tony Richardson. Kind of a curious tidbit that I know four of the dynasty.”

“Afraid at being typecasted at my age? I’d be quite happy to play another twenty villains. If those were offered…. Worrying about that sort of stuff is for young people.”

JamesBondNL: And how does that compare to working with the actual leading actor, Tom Cruise?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Well, let me comment on Mission IV. I had half a day of shooting on the film. One scene with Tom to be precise. He remembered me. It had been his idea to bring me in to tie the movie to the earlier one. He was very nice to me. We talked about kids and sports and moviemaking.”

JamesBondNL: Both Timothy Dalton and Tom Cruise played a recurring character in a popular spy franchise. Do you see a difference between the two actors on how they approach their roles? And if we bring current actor Daniel Craig into this comparison?
Andreas Wisniewski: “It seems that way to me but if you really want to know you have to ask them…”

JamesBondNL: After working on a lot of films, you have accumulated a pretty extensive filmography. Are you still in touch with some of the actors you worked with?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Not many at all. After a film shoot the “family” ‘ explodes’, and you tend to run into each other on some other projects down the line.”

JamesBondNL: The Broccoli-family is known for treating its cast and crew as a giant family. If that is the case, and if you are still in touch with some actors, have you ever tried to organize a reunion? And would some actors be open for it?
Andreas Wisniewski: “I am not really in touch with them. Would they be open to a reunion? Don’t they do this all the time?”

JamesBondNL: Haha, I should perhaps ask them in detail Andreas. On to your acting, which is your main profession off course. Did it also become a facilitator for writing screenplays. Could you tell us something about that?
Andreas Wisniewski: “I have shelved dramatic writing. For now. I will dig it up again if and when I will have finished my current projects: a Zen movie and a documentary about a musician (he says hopefully).”

JamesBondNL: What advice would you give Bond fans if they have a great story idea for a Bond film and would like to pitch it?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Be realistic!”

“Vanessa [Redgrave] was great. I didn’t have many scenes with her, mainly because I didn’t have many scenes. But we talked on the set. About social issues if I remember correctly.”

JamesBondNL: Something very different from your acting work is your affiliation with Zen Buddhism. How did that exactly happen?
Andreas Wisniewski: “I had……a personal tragedy and I needed answers.”

JamesBondNL: Is Zen Buddhism a way for you to temporarily disconnect from the cinematic world? Or would you prefer to focus on Zen Buddhism fulltime by giving up on acting and other aspects of filmmaking?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Zen to me is a way to ENGAGE rather than to disconnect. Although I don’t live in a monastery, I am ordained, and to me that means that my whole life is Zen practise, wherever I am. So I can be an actor or a director and there isn’t even the slightest friction with Zen.”

JamesBondNL: Throughout several decades in your life you have been travelling the world quite a lot. What complications does that bring for you? And from a family perspective?
Andreas Wisniewski: “It’s been fine for my family. I have been sharing raising my gang (of three boys) with my ex-partner, so I have been free to be away half the time. As for personal relationships it’s a bit trickier. I am now an expert on long-distance relationships.”

JamesBondNL: Is there a possibility for some editors within the JBNL-team to get a Zen Buddhism clinic? What would you advise us if we like to get into Zen Buddhism?
Andreas Wisniewski: “Best idea I have heard in a while. Get in touch with ZenRiver in Uithuizen. This is ‘my’ monastery. There is a great Zen master there, Tenkei Roshi, and some unbelievably helpful people. Do it! You won’t regret it.”

JamesBondNL: One last question Andreas. What is your ultimate favorite film that we should watch to get new creative inspiration, for either writing or any other aspect of filmmaking?
Andreas Wisniewski: “My all-time favourite is 2001: A Space Odyssey. Visionary. Beautiful. Mysterious. Ahead of its time.”

JamesBondNL: Thank you a lot for this extensive, in-depth interview. We hope to see you soon at a future film event, or perhaps even the upcoming premiere of James Bond 25 in November 2019.
Andreas Wisniewski: “My pleasure Gert.”

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Het bericht A Talk with the Walkman strangler: Andreas Wisniewski verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

I was given the opportunity to drive an Aston Martin DBS V12 for a few days. This is the company car James Bond used in the films Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace. An opportunity I grabbed with both hands. Because as a James Bond fan, when do you get the chance to drive the beast of a V12?

Our favourite secret agent never has to worry about his transport. The secret service always makes sure it has the fastest and most beautiful cars at its disposal. British car manufacturer Aston Martin has been inextricably linked to the James Bond films since 1964.

Not one but three Aston Martins

As I drive up the avenue of the Louwman Museum in The Hague in a Lexus Lexus NX450h+ F SPORT LINE, three British surprises await me. Despite the beautiful weather and the three great cars in front of me, I step out of the Lexus reluctantly. That’s because of the ‘climate concierge’. Together with the automatic air conditioning and seat cooling, it provides a lovely climate. The car is a plug-in hybrid and has an electric city range of 98 kilometres. Totally different from the Aston Martins.

Leaving the car, I see three beautifully styled cars. There is an Aston Martin V8 Vantage, a V8 Vantage Roadster and the very beautiful DBS V12. The DBS is the same car James Bond drove in two previously mentioned films. I need a moment to let the beauty come to me. How beautiful these cars are! Their stunning design and powerful presence make me smile.

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

I start my tour of the three cars with the V8 Vantage, designed by Ian Callum. The car looks like a blueprint for the DBS V12, which stands next to it gleaming in the sun. And that is not surprising: Callum’s design of the DB9 and DBS was inspired by this V8 Vantage. This V8 has 380hp/284kW and can sprint from 0 to 100 in 5 seconds. And its top speed? 280 kilometres per hour.

With the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster, a long journey to, say, the Côte d’Azur is certainly no hardship. Of these three cars, I am clearly more attracted to this one because it can drive without a roof. Besides, this bolide represents British allure, class and speed. The automatic transmission is also considerably better than that of the coupe version, which you have to rev-match. If you don’t do that properly, the coupe jerks every time the gearbox shifts.

Three Astons, which one to pick?

James Bond Netherlands is, of course, all about the world’s most famous secret agent. Naturally, I choose the Aston Martin DBS V12 to start my journey. The car exudes a subtle form of aggression. The powerful design features a wide front spoiler with several air intakes, side skirts, carbon fibre mirror caps and a ducktail spoiler on the tailgate. Details that perfectly match James Bond’s refined appearance: subtle, but tough when the situation calls for it.

Compared to previous models, the DBS V12 is certainly not a standard Aston Martin, but one that has received a significant power boost. For instance, this model features adjustable exhaust mufflers and a sport mode for adjusting braking, throttle response and steering. Weight was saved by making extensive use of carbon fibre, which also improved the car’s rigidity.  Personally, I think this is the most beautiful Aston Martin of its time. One that is perfectly designed. Every line and component has a purpose. For me, this design is complete. Of course, Aston Martin added the famous ‘swan doors’ to the design. These doors raise slightly at the rear to reduce damage from, for example, curbs. Swan doors have been used at Aston Martin since the DB9 in 2004.

Discovering the interior of the DBS V12

As I sit down in the car through these special doors, the expansive, adjustable leather seat embraces me firmly. I immediately feel at home. Although the DBS V12 is a sports car pure and simple, it does come with a luxurious interior. I am almost enchanted by a beautiful array of gauges. The needles of the tachometer and speedometer (up to 330 km/h) turn, unusually, counter-clockwise. For legal speeds in the Netherlands and Belgium, by the way, the needles remain in the lower regions.

There are a few things that do stand out about the interior of the DBS. Although it is an expensive-class car, many buttons are plastic, the levers on the steering wheel are clearly from Ford, and the navigation system is from Volvo and visibly dated. This can be explained because Ford Motor Company (also owner of Volvo at the time) owned it when the DBS was released. The interior grips me. It is small and narrow, yet I really don’t want to leave. Especially not when, after studying the interior, you start thinking about driving this bolide.

Making the atmospheric V12 roar

After realizing that I am now really in an extremely sleek sports car full of luxury and feeling more and more like James Bond, it is time to wake up the 6.0-liter V12. Aston Martin has said goodbye to the traditional key and introduced the crystal Emotion Control Unit (ECU) in 2009. I insert the ECU into a designated slot in the center console, apply the brake and then can push the “key” through.

What happens next is almost beyond description. My neck hairs immediately stand up, my ears are on edge and a huge smile appears on my face. The V12 comes to life! With a tremendous sense of drama, the engine makes itself heard loud and clear. A sound that few of us will ever experience live: just over 3,000 have been produced worldwide. As the car idles beautifully, I can’t resist a few taps on the aluminum throttle. The engine sound swells and becomes a bit vulgar. This car does not sound like your average Fiat Panda or Toyota Camry!

I must let you in on a little secret. The Aston Martin DBS already has a wonderful engine sound when it comes out of the factory. But the owner of this particular car chose to remove the mufflers and catalytic converters. The beast breathes freely through a straight pipe. It is simply not possible to miss this car as it drives by! And what is also impossible to miss is the wide grin on my face!

But back to the engine. The figures about it don’t lie. Our DBS is equipped with a 6.0-liter V12 with 517 hp/380 kW and sprints to one hundred kilometers per hour in 5 seconds. The top speed of the car we are driving, equipped with an automatic transmission, is 295 km/h. The manual version of this car has a top 307 kilometers per hour. The engine can certainly take more, but it is tuned for gear ratios.

Driving the Aston Martin DBS V12

Driving the Aston Martin DBS V12 is an experience full of thrills. In an earlier video about the Aston Martin DB11, I called it a gentlemen’s club on wheels. The DBS V12 is certainly no exception. The difference is that this is a club with two completely different personalities.

The car automatically starts in comfort mode. In this mode, the DBS is relatively softly sprung and shifts at low revs. You can hear the V12 hum quietly in the background. But when you put the car into sport mode, it changes immediately. The mufflers, steering response and gearbox behavior then adjust. The gearbox of the V12 then immediately downshifts and the DBS continues on its way as if on rails. And then you want only one thing: to drive rapidly to the horizon.

With the power of the V12 engine, that’s no problem at all. I shifted down a few gears with the aluminum paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Aston Martin is not just about high speed in a straight line, but also its cornering. Even though our car was on a set of aging tires, that didn’t make the handling in the corners any less impressive. When turning in, it does what you want it to do and you can easily get to your apex.

There is certainly no body roll when cornering. The carbon ceramic brake discs should also be used properly from time to time. If you don’t do that regularly, the discs will squeak loudly. You can hear this well in the video when I park the car to check the glove box for Q-Branch gadgets.

But that’s not all: in addition to the aforementioned driving modes, there is also a circuit mode.  In this mode, the Electronic Stability Program is disabled. Leaving everyone behind in a cloud of tire smoke with a poweslide is guaranteed. Even without this mode, it is possible to make the occasional playful slidings with ease.

We are about to end the days of testing. And during these days with all that power, the Aston Martin DBS V12 did enjoy a sip of fuel. Also, don’t be surprised that a car like this consumes a liter of gasoline every four to five kilometers. If you really do your best with leisurely driving you even manage to achieve eight to nine kilometers per liter. All I can say is that this is a raw beast with luxury and that, above all, puts a huge grin on your face while driving. And unfortunately: a fuel card not included. 

The connection with James Bond

Aston Martin has been the supplier of automobiles for the James Bond films since Goldfinger (Aston Martin DB5, check out my video via the link), with the exception of the Roger Moore Bond films and part of the Pierce Brosnan era. Connery drove a DB5 in two of his films. Dalton drove a V8 Vantage, and Brosnan brought out his personal car in GoldenEye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), and The World is Not Enough (1999). MI6 provided him with a BMWs. An exception was made for Die Another Day (2002). He drove an Aston Martin Vanquish in that outing.

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)

As I drive with the DBS, I reflect on the history of the model in the James Bond films. It wasn’t Daniel Craig who first got to drive an Aston Martin DBS in his first two James Bond films. No, this honor goes to Australian actor George Lazenby, who received the keys to a DBS in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969). He didn’t drive a DBS V12 but received one with a V8 under the bonnet as a company car. The Aston Martin DBS V8 had a 5.3-liter engine, 282hp/207kW, and sprints from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 6 seconds.

Bond drives near at the coast when he sees a lady walking into the sea. He immediately takes his Aston Martin DBS onto the beach to rescue her. At the end of the film, we see the DBS again. As Bond and Tracy Di Vincenzo’s wedding car. Complete with flower garlands that give it extra flair. When 007 stops to remove the garlands from the car, another car approaches. Driven by Blofeld and Irma Bunt. Bunt fires a volley at the car. Tracy dies instantly.

Casino Royale (2006)

After years of absence, Aston Martin returns in Die Another Day (2002). Pierce Brosnan gets behind the wheel of a V12 Vanquish. The collaboration between Aston and EON Productions is a long-standing one. Bond also drives an Aston Martin GT in Casino Royale (2006) . It’s an Aston Martin DBS V12, the car that I’m driving for this video. MI6 has delivered the car, in silver-gray “Casino Royale,” to Montenegro. With a few modest gadgets from Q-Branch, of course.

The poker game determines the fate of Le Chiffre. An underworld banker who must recoup all his money, which he invested and lost in airline stocks. By the way, it’s not his money but that of Mister White and his henchmen. An unknown man and organization to 007, whom we only get to know as such in Spectre (2015).

Le Chiffre makes an ultimate attempt to eliminate James Bond. James rushes to his DBS to administer the antidote to himself. More importantly, his heart could fail at any moment. It’s Vesper Lynd who saves him.

The same Vesper is kidnapped after Le Chiffre’s loss. Bond doesn’t hesitate for a moment. gets in his Aston Martin DBS and goes after her. When he sees a bound Vesper lying in the middle of the road at the last moment, he abruptly turns the steering wheel.

Seven barrel rolls later, Bond ends up in the grass. The DBS is completely destroyed. It was a world record. This year, the movie The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling as Colt Stevens, broke the record. A car made eight barrel rolls in the air.

Quantum of Solace (2008)

Who took his beloved Vesper from him? This question is central to Bond in Quantum of Solace (2008). It was Vesper who led 007 to Mr. White at the end of Casino Royale. With White in the boot, he sets off in an Aston Martin DBS V12 in Quantum Silver towards Siena, Italy. When two Alfa Romeo 159s appear, chaos erupts around Lake Garda.

A very fast-paced action scene full of gunfire, lorries, cars, a shovel, the Carabinieri, and a marble quarry follows. Blink twice, and it’s over. Bond loses his door immediately in the tunnel where the chase begins. Through the quarry, he finds himself back on the road, where he miraculously shoots the driver of the last 159, sending it dramatically tumbling into the ravine in slow motion. In just two and a half minutes, the entire chase is over. Guess i’ll keep our DBS out of harms way…

No Time To Die (2021)

The twenty-fifth and currently last James Bond film is full of Aston Martin models. In addition to the almost obligatory DB5, we see a Valhalla and a DBS Superleggera. A sporty version of the DB11. Aston has been much more thorough with this model than with our driving subject. The front end is more aggressive, and the rear has been restyled.

In the film, we only briefly see the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera. The car clearly plays a supporting role alongside the DB5. It’s Agent Nomi who picks up Bond after the dramatic events in Norway. She takes him to the military airfield nearby. There, Q is ready with a fully fueled Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. The DBS does a nice powerslide as they drive onto the airfield.

Luxury and comfort: The Lexus NX 450h+

Our borrowed Lexus NX450h+ from Lexus Nederland is, of course, incomparable to the power delivered by the Aston Martin DBS V12. With the 450h+, you make a conscious choice. It’s one of comfort, high seating positions, and Japanese top quality. Lexus has been leading the lists of reliable automobiles for years, and the Japanese themselves are convinced of it. They provide their models, just like Toyota’s, with a standard ten-year warranty!

The design of the NX450h+ appeals to me. The front end is high, instantly recognizable as Lexus with the trapezoid grille, and equipped with piercing Matrix LED headlights with standard automatic high beam function. At the rear, the continuous light bar takes center stage. The boot floor is a bit high, but despite the plug-in hybrid drivetrain, there is space in the trunk for all our recording equipment.

The special F SPORT LINE seats are excellent. They offer ample support from all sides, are electronically adjustable, heated, and ventilated. Lexus equips its NX models with a 14-inch Lexus Link Pro multimedia screen that works intuitively. Everything is where you expect it to be. Our crew car has the Mark Levison audio system, which sounded excellent on our trips to and from our filming locations.

Power is a secondary factor in the NX450h+. But when you do need it, the car doesn’t disappoint. The four-cylinder engine combined with two electric motors delivers 306hp/227kW. A continuously variable transmission is standard. When demanding a lot of power, the car makes its presence known. Due to the plug-in hybrid drivetrain, all-wheel drive is standard.

Our crew car is a Lexus NX 450h+ F SPORT LINE in Sapphire Blue and costs 82,790 euros. The NX range starts from 61,995 euros. This NX350h Comfort Line has to do without a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The numbers came directly from our Dutch Lexus headquarters.

Het bericht VIDEO: Driving Bond’s Aston Martin DBS V12 flat out! verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

After months of hard work, the time has finally come; these are the first video images of our adventure with the Aston Martin DBS V12! James Bond’s car in Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace! Our upcoming video is a boy’s dream, full of fantastic moments, brimming with excitement and adrenaline.

Our adventure starts at the Louwman Museum in The Hague. Besides the DBS V12, there are also a V8 Vantage and V8 Vantage Roadster in attendance! But which one should I choose? Naturally, there’s only one model suitable as the main subject of our adventure. The DBS with the mighty V12.

Under the bonnet of the DBS V12 lies a non-turbocharged engine, with six litres of displacement and 517hp/380kW. 0 to 100 km/h? Just 4 seconds! The Aston is a car with two faces, one that comfortably takes you to your destination and the other one, with a few presses of the designated buttons, transforms it into a sports car. And I haven’t even mentioned the sound that the V12 treats you to yet!

DBS in the Bond-films

When George Lazenby takes over from Sean Connery as James Bond, it’s time for a new company car. The DBS from On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969) is equipped with a V8 and 282hp/207kW.

In Casino Royale (2006) and Quantum of Solace (2008), the then-fresh agent 007 drives the model you see in our teaser. He rescues Vesper and takes Mister White to Siena for questioning.

It’s the new agent 007, Nomi, who picks up James Bond in No Time To Die (2021) with an Aston Martin DBS Superleggera. The car is truly a gimmick in the Aston-dominated film about the end of an era full of intrigue and fatherhood.

The Sapphire Blue luxury SUV

A Lexus NX 450h+ in Sapphire Blue supported our adventure alongside the Aston Martin DBS V12. A comfortable plug-in hybrid that provides you with nearly 100 electric kilometres in city traffic. Our NX450h+ is an F Sport Line and filled with luxury.

For instance, the climate concierge is standard. It works simultaneously with the automatic air conditioning, heated and cooled seats. The car is available from € 82,790. The NX range starts at € 61,995. This NX350h Comfort Line isn’t available with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

Coming soon

Stay tuned, our adventure with the Aston Martin DBS V12 and its two siblings will be released soon!

One more thing…

Everything that James Bond Netherlands publishes, is done entirely on a voluntary basis and non-profit. If you want to support JBN with a donation, this will fully benefit better articles. Every cent is directly invested back into our website. If you’d like to support Stichting James Bond Nederland by making a donation, you can do so by donating via the SEPA number below:

NL55 RABO 0338 6331 46 in the name of Stichting James Bond Nederland

KVK number (Trade register number): 85622028

Het bericht Teaser: Full speed with Bond’s Aston Martin DBS V12! verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

In 2006, Merlijn Kuiper and I embarked on the journey of founding James Bond Nederland, a passion project that continues to thrive today. Our venture began in November 2006, coinciding with our attendance at the premiere of Casino Royale in London. It would be more accurate to say that we stood outside the gates of Leicester Square during the premiere. It was there that I met Wolfgang, and our friendship was instant.

Personal life

Wolfgang was born on April 29th, 1962, in Bagdad, Iraq. His father had a job that required its presence in the Arabic country. Wolfgang pursued a career as an official in the financial department of the city of Frankfurt. Over time, he found his job less fulfilling, particularly as the process of digitalization swept through the department. Wolfgang confided in me about the challenges he faced, especially with the transition from paper-based filing systems to digital archives. Despite the chaos in the archives, he remained dedicated to his work and eventually reached retirement age.

The love of theatre and performance was, besides his primary passion for James Bond, a significant aspect of Wolfgang’s life. We often conversed about his experiences with the theatre association, Erstes Anspacher Kulturtheater. This year, the village of Neu-Anspach, Germany celebrates its 750th anniversary, and Wolfgang was actively involved in planning and organizing theatre performances for the occasion, something he cherished deeply. Regrettably, he wasn’t able to participate in and commemorate this milestone in the village where he had spent his entire life.

A true passion called James Bond

Wolfgang’s enthusiasm for James Bond preceded mine by quite some time, but that never hindered us from sharing our passion. We crossed paths numerous times at various locations across Europe, from London to Switzerland, Rotterdam, Frankfurt, and even places like Hamburg and Paris. His warmth and friendliness were constants during our encounters, a trait that resonates with many of us in the Bond community. Wolfgang embodied the quintessential German, always ready to extend a helping hand.

In 1997, Wolfgang founded BondKlub Deutschland, and the club’s magazine, NullNullSieben, remains a cherished possession of my friend Anders Frejdh. Subsequently, in 2014, the James Bond Club Deutschland was established, with Wolfgang assuming the role of vice president. Alongside President Andreas Pott and their team, Wolfgang dedicated himself to organizing events, producing magazines, and much more.

Bond friends

I have fond memories of numerous occasions where Wolfgang and I enjoyed catching up, discussing all things Bond, and sharing our experiences in life. Our conversations would often stretch for hours as we delved into the films, his admiration for the actors, actresses, and the talented individuals behind the scenes. Wolfgang’s collection of photos and autographs with these icons was extensive, so much so that I lost track of the exact count. And let me assure you, he eagerly shared many of them with me!

My initial encounter with Wolfgang dates back almost twenty years ago. However, the first photograph in my existing archive capturing our meeting is from the JBCD event “Bond over Nederland” in 2014. That day remains a cherished memory filled with laughter and camaraderie. We explored the Designing 007 exhibition at Kunsthal Rotterdam, enjoyed a delightful lunch, and shared many laughs. In the photograph, you can see Wolfgang, myself, Johan Antens, Merlijn Kuiper, Morten Steingrimsen, Remmert van Braam (Bond Lifestyle), and another member of the club at the Douwe Egberts cafe, posing in front of one of the Citroën 2CVs featured in For Your Eyes Only (1981).

Meeting on a Swiss alp

In early August 2015, Schilthorn Piz Gloria unveiled its Bond World 007 exhibition, later renamed Spy World. Johan and our mutual Belgian friend, Nathalie Cloet, embarked on a journey from the Netherlands and Belgium, respectively, to attend the event. As we were about to board the cable car to ascend to the summit, we were greeted by a familiar hearty laugh and voice—it was Wolfgang. His presence added to the excitement of the day, and he shared with us details about the gala opening, which had George Lazenby in attendance.

The next photograph captures our time together in the cable car. During our visit to Schilthorn Piz Gloria, we noticed a significant presence of Chinese tourists, as they were quite numerous. It seems they frequently include this destination as a stop on their bus tours around Europe.

We lost sight of Wolfgang as the cable car reached the station. While waiting, I engaged in conversation with my fellow Bond enthusiasts, including Markus Hartmann (President of James Bond Club Schweiz), Anders Frejdh, and Ajay Chowdhury (a longtime friend of both Wolfgang and myself). Additionally, I had a brief encounter with George himself, adding to the excitement of the day.

Following a delightful lunch with fellow Bond aficionados, we proceeded to visit Bond World 007. After some time, Wolfgang made his entrance into the room. Ever cheerful, he promptly placed a German club cap on the head of a cardboard cut-out of Diana Rigg, much to everyone’s amusement. I seized the opportunity to capture this lighthearted moment in the two subsequent photos. Who says Germans lack a sense of humor?

Trips to London and Frankfurt

The thought of visiting London always lingers in my mind, especially after the memorable experience in November 2022 when I attended Skyfall in Concert with Merlijn and a close friend of ours. The anticipation was palpable as it marked my first visit to the renowned Royal Albert Hall. The event drew numerous aficionados from the Bond fan community, including Remmert, Ajay, Anders, and of course, Wolfgang. It was an unforgettable evening filled with engaging conversations, the mesmerizing performance by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and, as always, plenty of refreshing beer. The running joke of the night was Wolfgang’s decision to paint his hair black, adding a playful touch to his impeccable appearance in a well-cut smoking and patent leather shoes. He certainly looked the part and contributed to the evening’s jovial atmosphere.

Another memorable occasion for a meetup occurred during the day with John Glen in Frankfurt back in 2019. It was Gosse Drent‘s first Bond event, and Andreas suggested we have lunch with John and his delightful wife at the Flemings Hotel. To our pleasant surprise, Wolfgang was there in his role as Vice President, extending a warm welcome to all of us with open arms.

Wolfgang told us a lot about John Glen and his love for Bond. I must share these lovely photos by Sascha Braun of Fotostudio Sascha Braun.

Such a loss

Wolfgang was one of the kindest individuals I’ve ever known. We shared lengthy discussions about Bond, our personal lives, and the things that truly mattered. He was a significant influence within the Bond fan community, and his absence will be deeply felt. I already miss him greatly, and I’m sure I can’t be the only one. However, finding solace in the multitude of messages flooding social media yesterday has been a source of strength. It’s evident that Wolfgang was cherished by many, and that’s how we’ll remember him. We’ve bid farewell to a legend of the Bond fandom.

Wolfgang passed away at the age of 61, in his home in Neu-Anspach.

Het bericht Our dear friend Wolfgang (1962–2024) passed away verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

Wil je dit artikel in het Nederlands lezen? Dat kan hier!

My friends look at me somewhat teasingly when I tell them late 2023 that I bought a non-working gear lever. “Why would you buy a gear lever? You don’t even have a car,” they remark. Honestly, I often enjoy the surprised faces when I start a story in a somewhat mysterious way. It creates a humorous spectacle as they try to decipher my little cryptic announcement. Now when I bought this replica it was no different. Although they may not be as much 007 enthusiasts as I am, they are certainly aware and know a thing or two about it. They quickly made the connection: “Gosse has probably once again spent too much money on something that is way too expensive and has to do with James Bond.”

Is the price justified?

I have to give it to my friends, because the new gear lever from Factory is quite pricey, € 176.95 to be exact. To have this product shipped to the Netherlands or Belgium, you need to pay € 197.90 in total, with an additional € 49.50 for import costs later on. So is it worth spending almost € 250 on a gear lever that won’t make a car drive or a seat fly into the air?

“An investment,” as I tried to sell it. And let’s be honest, that’s true. Factory Entertainment’s products often increase in value. Some of their most popular replicas, such as Jaws’ teeth or Scaramanga’s Golden Gun, can quickly become two or three times more expensive than their purchase price. We’re talking about hundreds, if not thousands, of euros. But is that ethical? Is it appropriate to deprive others of the chance to obtain this replica when only 1,964 units are available?

No, in my opinion, it is not. That is not my intention either. In the coming time, this red button will proudly adorn my desk, even with a price tag of € 250. “The first part of my own, yet to be built, Aston Martin DB5,” is my new excuse. A project that will probably never come to fruition, but this little knob is the most iconic piece of James Bond history in my student room.

The design

“Then it must be a very good replica,” is the next comment from my friends. It’s not, and I knew that before I bought it. According to the 007Store, the features of the knob have been copied one-to-one from the EON Productions archives.

However, if you look at clips from Goldfinger and Skyfall (2012), you can see that the knob and the mechanism of the ejector seat look slightly different. Goldfinger’s has a visible notch, contains more unpainted aluminum inside the flap, and around the red button. The button itself is also more recessed. For the Skyfall version, the props masters at EON did a great job making the knob look as much like the original as possible. They succeeded excellently! But there is a very minor difference, Goldfinger’s seems to be a bit more worn.

The differences with the Factory replica are, however, clearly evident, so where does the design of this knob come from? From which archive was the blueprint for this design drawn? I briefly thought it might be from the version of the Aston Martin DB5 Continuation, but after some googling, this turns out not to be the case. So where does this design come from? Honestly, I have no idea.

Aesthetically, the knob may look even better than the original, but that doesn’t match the promise of the 007Store and Factory Entertainment. Because this is not a one-to-one replica of the original. Even the font on top of the knob differs from that in both films. The lines and numbers on the replica are clearly applied with a modern font, probably Arial, until recently the standard font of Microsoft Word. This font was designed in 1982, eighteen years after the release of Goldfinger. It’s a boring font for a boring person, not James Bond.

And that difference is somewhat painful, because the original knob is clearly visible on the back of the included booklet. You can’t convince me that no one at Factory Entertainment noticed these differences. Yet I chose to pay € 250. That may seem strange, especially since I was aware of these adjustments before buying the replica. So why?

It’s the Aston Martin DB5

Very simple, I am – to put it mildly – a enthusiast. The first James Bond model car I ever got from my parents was an Aston Martin DB5. This car has meant so much to the franchise. It’s no coincidence that it appears in seven films. Owning a DB5 is a dream I’ve had since I was little and will probably take to my grave. For me, the price felt like nothing compared to that dream. Even though this useless piece of metal essentially does nothing, because after pressing the button, it remains eerily quiet in my room. Not even a speck of dust fires itself in the air.

There is also plenty positive to say about the replica. The build quality is good. The lever stands solid on its base, on which some text is written: Goldfinger, BMT 261A, Ejector seat button replica, with the Aston Martin logo below. Also, the button clicks very pleasantly, and when you close the lid it is held in place by magnets. So yes, the details that don’t quite match are unfortunate, but I now have a little piece of “the most famous car in the world” in my own home. And that is more than I ever dared to dream of as a child. Now for the rest of the parts.

The Ejector Seat Button Replica from Factory Entertainment is available on the official 007Store and costs € 178.95 (excluding shipping, import costs, and a working ejector seat).

Also in 2024…

Everything that James Bond Nederland publishes, is done entirely on a voluntary basis and non-profit. If you want to support JBN with a donation, this will fully benefit better articles. Every cent is directly invested back into our website. If you’d like to support Stichting James Bond Nederland by making a donation, you can do so by donating via the SEPA number below:

NL55 RABO 0338 6331 46 in the name of Stichting James Bond Nederland

KVK number (Trade register number): 85622028

Het bericht Review: The Ejector Seat Button Replica is cool, but also inaccurate verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

The past year has been quite a rollercoaster for 007 enthusiasts. Two years after No Time to Die, the successor to Daniel Craig as James Bond remains shrouded in mystery. Rumors are rife, yet solid, concrete news remains elusive. As a James Bond platform, we find this somewhat unfortunate, but we recognize the complexity of creating a new film from scratch.

However, our editorial team remains confident that EON Productions is doing everything possible to announce the next Bond actor in the best way possible. This year, the producers launched their first official spin-off, 007: Road to a Million, of which we can expect a second season in 2024. Ian Fleming Publications introduced a new novel, with Charlie Higson returning as a Bond author after 15 years, penning On His Majesty’s Secret Service within three months. Additionally, Ian Fleming Publications has a new novel slated for next year. With the announcement of A Spy Like Me, Kim Sherwood delivers the second book in her Double O trilogy, promising deeper insights into the other 00 agents of MI6.

For James Bond Nederland, 2023 was a remarkable year, albeit quieter in Bond news. Nevertheless, we remain committed to sharing the latest Bond updates, our perspectives, and adventures through written and video content. Our projects, such as commemorating the seventieth anniversary of Casino Royale in London, Gosse’s expedition to Istanbul, and the electrifying Shaken Not Stirred event, were particularly enjoyable. Our sincere gratitude to all of you for reading and engaging with our articles and projects this year.

In the upcoming year, we aim to delve further into Bond 26, hopefully covering the start of production, though if that will happen in 2024 remains uncertain. Anyhow, we’ve kept ourselves busy at James Bond Nederland; Jorrit will unveil a video next year extensively testing the Aston Martin DBS from Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, sharing his experiences. As expected, these will be positive—after all, it’s a Bond car! Furthermore, in 2024, we’re launching a new podcast called Bondgenoten in Dutch – or Bond Buddies for English episodes – where we’ll engage in weekly discussions on various 007 topics, aiming to deliver fresh content to our listeners. Detailed updates on both projects will follow in early 2024.

A Bond film often revisited in December is On Her Majesty’s Secret Service from 1969, featuring the Christmas song Do You Know How Christmas Trees Are Grown. A year post-film release, Dutch singer Martine Bijl presented a Dutch rendition titled Waarvan Wordt Een Dennenboompje Groot. It’s a somewhat lesser-known connection between the Netherlands and James Bond, but something we would like to share with you this Christmas.

On behalf of the editors at James Bond Nederland, we extend our warmest wishes to you — our readers, partners, donors, and all Bond enthusiasts — for a healthy and joyous 2024!

Het bericht Happy Holidays and a fantastic 2024 verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.

Klik hier voor het Nederlandse artikel.

We have been waiting for news about Bond 26 for some time now. Although the official social media likes to remind us of No Time to Die (2021), we moved on from that film almost two years ago. Bond enthusiasts want to look forward. We’re speculating about directors and actors, but little seems certain. Until now. The website Production Weekly tracks all films in production and compiles them into a large list, which they then publish. And what film is suddenly on that list? Indeed, Bond 26.

Without the paid version of the website, you can only read the list of film titles. Subscribers also have access to the real insider information: a summary that keeps track of each film’s production status. Bond 26 appears on the list for the first time, meaning it’s being worked on at some level. To me, it seems to be in a very early stage of pre-production. Amazon/MGM approving EON Productions’ financial plans and giving the green light is enough to be mentioned.

Bullets for Winter is Bond 26 (according to IMDb)

If you search IMDb for the films EON Productions is currently working on, you find three titles. There’s Remote Control, about a British secret agent who discovers a conspiracy against China, starring Gerard Butler, which is in pre-production. No Place to Hide is a biographical film about whistle-blower Edward Snowden. But the one that’s of interest to us is Bullets for Winter. Clicking on that title reveals no details. However, there’s a link to the IMDb Pro page. Bullets for Winter redirects to… Bond 26!

There it is, on IMDb Pro, the film page for Bond 26. The movie is labelled as ‘announced’. This labelling can happen quickly. Barbara Broccoli making press statements like “We’ll get to Bond 26 after celebrating 60 years of Bond” and “We need to reinvent the character” is enough to assign the ‘announced’ status. Remember that IMDb, like Wikipedia, can be easily edited, though Pro pages are more secure.

EON and Frozen Film Company Limited

I’ve mentioned a mysterious subsidiary of EON Productions before, Frozen Film Company Limited. This company was mentioned in EON’s last annual financial report. All Bond films since Casino Royale (2006) have been officially made by EON and a separate holding, created for each film. For instance, Spectre (2015) was made through B24 Limited, and No Time to Die through B25 Limited. These subsidiaries are set up years in advance.

I’ve been scouring the internet for two years to find B26 Limited. Without success. But the annual report made me wonder. What if the special subsidiary for Bond 26 already exists? Frozen Film Company Limited has been around since October 1st, 2015, and recently transitioned from a dormant to an active company. EON is doing something with Frozen Film Company Limited. The question is: what? Notably, it’s listed as a ‘non-trading company’, which means it’s sometimes inactive, likely to be in a start-up phase, but still conducts financial transactions. However, all previous subsidiaries listed ‘Motion picture production activities’ as their main activity.

Covert operation or false hope?

An occasionally inactive company, but with ongoing transactions. That’s vague. Evidently, Frozen Film Company Limited finds itself in an early stage of development. But is it the right company? We’re not sure. If it is in fact the subsidiary for Bond 26, then it’s the first time EON is (probably intentionally) vague. But they’re allowed to be. And if we suddenly see ‘Motion picture production activities’ appear once the company starts its activities, then we’re likely on the right track.

Putting all the pieces together, things start to make sense. ‘Bullets for Winter‘, ‘Frozen Film’, the choices seem intentional. The Bond series was put on ice after No Time to Die. And Bond 26 will soon pierce through the cold Bond-less winter like a bullet. It reminds me of the fake titles for other movies, meant to avoid attention. Or maybe I’m wrong, trying to make connections that aren’t there. Perhaps this entire article is too far-fetched.

Where’s Michael?

Because if we look objectively, there are some unexplained holes in my theory. According to the British Companies House, three people are labelled ‘officers’ of Frozen Film Companies Limited. Bond producer Barbara Broccoli is a director, along with David Pope, co-producer for the Bond films since Skyfall (2012). EON’s accountant John Roebuck is secretary of Frozen Film. But where’s Michael G. Wilson? He’s mentioned in all previous subsidiaries. Not in this one.

So, is Bond 26 the movie where Michael G. Wilson retires? There’s been much speculation, following a notable speech by Barbara at the premiere of No Time to Die. Nobody knows what Michael will do. The assumption is that he will remain as a consulting producer, like Albert R. Broccoli did with GoldenEye (1995). Michael would help choose the new Bond actor, but the actual production work would be his half-sister’s responsibility.

Welcome back Phoebe?

However, that’s an assumption. There have been no signs from EON that Michael is about to retire. And on the IMDb Pro page, Michael is listed as a producer, as usual. Though I’m coming back to my earlier remark that anyone can edit IMDb. Because who’s listed on that page as a writer, albeit with (rumour) added? Phoebe Waller Bridge. She (in a much-publicised role) revised the script for No Time to Die and has since been sporadically linked to Bond 26.

The rumour that Phoebe Waller-Bridge has a script ready for Bond 26, or has even been asked to start to write one, seems unlikely. Whenever Barbara Broccoli is asked about Bond 26, she refers to the story and writers Neal Purvis and Robert Wade. They are the ones that need to sit down with EON, is what Barbara always says. Those two veterans, involved with Bond since The World Is Not Enough (1999). Not Phoebe Waller-Bridge.

The true beginning

Neal Purvis and Robert Wade bring me back to the question that looms over this article. This financial stuff is nice to know, but when will those two start writing? When will EON appoint a director? Who will be the seventh 007? The answer, dear reader, is that we probably won’t know for a while. Hollywood is facing a writer’s and actor’s strike that might be resolved in the coming weeks. The unions are still negotiating with the film bosses.

But things are moving. Has MGM’s new Head of Feature Film Production, Peter Oillataguerre, accelerated things? Maybe. Even though rumours about directors are circulating, I think this proves that the road to Bond 26 is slower than we might’ve hoped.

Let’s put it this way: if we get any news on October 5th, 61 years after the premiere of Dr. No in 1962, it’s unlikely to be the announcement of an actor or director. Best case scenario: we get a release date, because Amazon wants to set a target. Worst case scenario: we get no news at all on James Bond Day. We might have to be satisfied with the thought that, in secret, hopefully, work is being done on Bond 26.

One more thing…

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Het bericht Has Bond 26 started production? verscheen eerst op James Bond Nederland.