Actor Daniel Craig recently shed light on his experience playing the iconic MI6 agent James Bond over five films, revealing that societal expectations surrounding masculinity were one of his primary concerns.
Speaking during a promotional event for his latest film 'Queer' by Luca Guadagnino, Craig stated, “I would say one of my biggest reservations about playing [Bond] would be the construct of masculinity.” He further elaborated that while often “laughable,” the societal norms he had to embody as Bond couldn’t simply be mocked. “You have to buy into it,” he added.
Craig, who first donned the tuxedo in the 2006 hit 'Casino Royale,' went on to star in 'Quantum of Solace' (2008), 'Skyfall' (2012), 'Spectre' (2015), and 'No Time to Die' (2021). His portrayal of the legendary spy became a defining moment in his career, but he has been vocal about his decision to step away from the franchise. Craig has repeatedly expressed that he has no regrets about leaving the role, with the final chapter of his Bond story ending in a poignant sacrifice for his character.
Despite the success, Craig acknowledged that his understanding of masculinity, crucial to playing Bond, sometimes felt limiting. He explained, “We’re all vulnerable. It doesn't matter who you are. It doesn’t matter how tough you are, everybody’s vulnerable,” adding, "But it’s how boys are brought up, how men are expected to behave, how someone like Burroughs was expected to behave."
This vulnerability is something Craig has explored in his recent work, particularly in 'Queer,' where he plays Lee, an American expatriate living in 1950s Mexico City. The film, based on William S. Burroughs' novella, delves into themes of human vulnerability and desire. Craig noted that he couldn’t have taken on such a role during his time as Bond.
“Listen, [Bond] is nearly 20 years of my life. When I took it on I was one person. I'm now a completely different person,” he explained, adding, “But I couldn't have done this movie when I was doing Bond. It would’ve felt kind of, 'Why? What are you trying to prove?'"
Reflecting on his Bond career, Craig also shared the sense of liberation he feels post-Bond. Having become a global superstar through the role, he now enjoys the freedom of taking on projects outside the shadow of 007. He spoke about losing the "freedom" he had as a semi-anonymous actor before the Bond films catapulted him to international fame.
In 'Queer,' Craig plays a character struggling with personal isolation and romantic turmoil, a stark contrast to his action-packed portrayal of Bond. The film, set against the backdrop of Mexico City’s vibrant yet challenging society, also explores themes of identity, desire, and emotional turmoil.
