Unlike other franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, Dr Who etc. Bond is the easiest to integrate into your daily real life; classy watches, classy suits and clothes, classy cars, it’s not cosplaying, its not geeky, it’s the appreciation of the Bond style and aspirational brands, no different to what you see in GQ or Esquire magazines. As a young boy it was Bond got me into cars, watches and gadgets that has stuck with me ever since, the influence is deeper than just the films.
I've been obsessed with Bond since I was about 3 years old. I'd throw a tantrum if I knew Bond was on television and my parents were taking me out. I'd make my school friends play"James Bond" In the playground and get them to set questions about James Bond and test me. I'm now 44 and I've never met another person that is as passionate about Bond as me, sure they say they enjoy the films but not in the way I do. I can hear the first bar of any of the music and I know which film it's from, even John Barry's other music I know immediately it's him. I went to see Q The Music this year and cried the moment they started playing. I'm a member of For Bond Fans Only on Facebook and it's like "finally I've found my people". I love your channel by the way.
I'm 48 and I'm like you and I'm alone in my love for Bond. I've loved it since I was 5. I met Roger Moore once and it was part of my life that I will never forget ❤️
Huge Bond fan. Not embarrassed about it, but I do wish I had someone IRL that shared my passion for the franchise. I only know other Bond fans through the internet.
I agree that the Bond franchise is one of the few where you can wear clothes from a film, especially one of recent films, and not look like it is cosplay.
I wear Bond 'on my sleeve', along with Doctor Who, Superman and Sherlock Holmes. I see no difference between this and someone else liking football or going to the theatre. At the end of the day, all the above are meant to be fun.
As always, thank you for the motivation David. Creators like you and Calvin Dyson inspired me to start my own 007 channel earlier this year. From a creative standpoint, I like to keep my true identity hidden much like a Bond villain. However, you are totally right, the ultimate goal is to share our passions with others and connect. Starting now, I will be more outspoken and confident in my love of Bond, by sharing more with friends and family. Thank you & cheers from Orlando!
Good question. I have loved 007 since I was a child, and all my friends and family know this. The thing about 007, is that a lot of the ‘moments’ can be part of everyday life that those in the know can notice. When I started my Instagram page I loved interacting with the community, but I was embarrassed around friends and family. The more that my friends and family discover my page and see how big the fan world is they all get it and support it. Everyone has a ‘thing’, why not embrace it. I’ve learnt life’s too short to worry about what other people think
David I have to say I think you are r wonderful! The sangfroid and natural debonair charm you exude is compelling and infectious. I am so glad I found your channel. I was taken as a 12 year old boy by my father to see Dr No in 1962 and from that first gunbarrel onwards I have been obsessed with all things Bond. Roger Moore went to my school albeit before me and was already a hero of mine as the Saint and Danger Man with Patrick McGoohan was a favourite of mine I wrote McGoohan a letter to which he replied with signed pictures and without ego, I had also spent most nights as a teenager reading Flemings books to the Dawn light and I am 73 years ild now and still as obsessed with 007. The manner in which you represent us all in the Bond Community at your meetings with significant people such as Wilson and Broccoli is appreciated more than you know. I would just like to add as a viewpoint on how the films could have been improved. I have king thought that the Thunderball/ On Her Majesty’s Secret Service/ You Only Live Twice trio of books coukd have been dealt with more realistically on film with particular disappointment with the cartoonish hurried pre tiltke sequence in Fiamonds are Forever. I would have cast one actor as Blofeld from the start and my choice would have been the Austrian/German actor Anton Diffring who is best remembered as the SA Colonel in Where Eagles Dare. In reality he was anti Nazi and fled Europe during the War only ironically to corner the market as the quintessential Nazi in many films of the fifties and sixties including a portrayal as Reinhard Heydrich one if the prime architects of the Holocaust. One actor as Felix Leiter would have also been better. Sorry I went off fat a tangent but I had to get t to hat thought off my chest! Thanks David for all you do it’s very much appreciated in the United Kingdom.
Completely agree with all points here, in fact your open adoration of Bond is a big reason I’m a fan of the channel. There is no reason to care what others think, and the proof is in the product, the Bond community is really really fantastic, with a lot of people like yourself or Calvin who are extremely successful in “conventional” senses. Your passions don’t have a bearing on anything else.
Love what you love. Geeking out about Bond is harmless and if it helps bring joy to your life run with it and let those whose lives are so miserable they have to cut down others wallow in their misery. I would love to see a series of movies, maybe on Netflix, where they follow Flemming's books more closely. I would still love to see the big movies at the cinema, as well. I would also love to see David do some interviews with real life spies and Tier 1 one operators on things people can do to make their lives safer and, dare I say it, make good men more dangerous for bad men to hurt, just like JB. Owning a Walther PPK isn't the same as knowing how to use one. Crazy talk, I know, but I would still like to see it.
At first I was embarrassed and weird because I thought I was the only women passioned about Bond, more is mostly associated and passioned to men rather than women. But now when I saw few women talk and be passioned about Bond in social media platforms I don't feel alone and embarrassed anymore, I feel more open, confident and empowered than ever before. Then I started to collect Bond items, talking freely to encourage my family, my friends and other people who are Bond fans or not to live the Bond experience with me, go to travel Bond destinations which I went earlier this year to London and going to events which on the 15th February next year I will attend Skyfall in Concert in Malta for the first time ever organized this type of concert in our capital city Valletta and I am looking forward to it!
Thank you for this video. It resonates with me on such a deep level. Since a very early age, it's been my hobby to collect merchandise from James Bond and The A-Team television series. I've never hidden my passion for this hobby despite some negativity from a small minority and I even have my very own man cave littered in both Bond and A-Team collectables. Just recently, a work colleague told me how much they admire my personal enthusiasm for my hobby, and luckily, my partner has always been supportive and understanding as she has her own passion for The Twilight Saga. It's truly wonderful to know that there are so many like-minded people, and I wholeheartedly agree with your statement that it's a super fun way of escaping the often harsh realities of everyday life.
This is definitely an issue I have, but its not out of embarrassment, I fall into the category of just not being able to flaunt my face on social media in general. So I enjoy sharing my hobbies and interests and still getting to protect my identity. But I would still love to meet my fellow Bond community members face to face!!!
Interesting discussion. In my case, my work and social circle is steeped in film and pop culture yet most don't care much about James Bond. It's easier to converse about Marvel and Star Wars. Discussing Bond peaks peoples interesst when discussing vacations to Bond film locations.
I collect memorabilia from the James Bond, Star Wars (OT & prequels) and Star Trek (films 1979-1986) franchises. My favourite brands from the Bond franchise are Fred Perry, Barbour, Ted Baker, and Orlebar Brown. However, I choose clothes that suit my personality and style preference - I buy very little that is screen accurate. I don’t wear an Omega or Rolex watch…I wear the CWC SBS Diver Issue day/date Quartz watch - the real watch of the British Royal Navy’s Special Boat Service.
I’ve been James Bond fan since 1969! Her Majesty Secret Service is the first James Bond film. I saw in a movie theater. Don’t really think I need to say more just the best. 007 for ever!!
Hell, no, I’m not embarrassed. I’m proud to be a James Bond fan My left arm is covered and nothing but James Bond tattoo and I’m proud to show that every day and talk about it.
I am watching the Texas/ Florida game and Isaiah Bond just ran an end around for Texas for 44yards. They panned into the stands and a bunch of people did the James Bond with his gun to his chest move. With a player named Quintrevion Wisner that just scored a TD for Texas . . .players call him "Q". Can't make this stuff up. Even an obscure college game shows people's love for Bond!!!!!
I'm a massive Bond fan and have been since I was 5 and never ever been embarrassed. I love your content and I normal is 007 in my life and culture we all share.
Hang on a second! I'm NOT paying your rent? Then what the hell are those checks for $346.62 that I send you every month for? Thank you for your channel, for your words, your compassion and your love of Bond. You make it accessible and bring several points of view together. Well done, sir! Now...about those checks...
I'm not massively obsessed just a fan, that being I have all the films on DVD, a few of the books (including biographies), like reading articles, I have a Omega Seamaster 300, I have a number of the clothing items (like the full outfits in GoldenEye, Skyfall etc). But you can be stealthy influenced (Fitness, attitude, style) without looking like a Bond cosplayer. You talk about "Bond Moments" in many of your videos, I can get that by just wearing a suit, an Omega driving a silver British car, like a Jaguar X-Type. I'm really just in it for the Bond moments, while stealing a few of the life style traits.
"No one gets out of childhood alive." Harlan Ellison. David is basically telling us not to be gatekeepers. Some fandoms that's an issue. I wore formal attire to the James Bond exhibit in Chicago and also took a Slideshow Connery figure with me. People reacted positively. I've had many who have enjoyed the pics I took of the props and vehicles displayed in the galleries. My girlfriend is British and isn't into Bond much. I went to see her for a special date. I brought my Bond attache toy case with me to see her reaction. She did not reject me. She was fine and checked it out In our defense, Bond is one of the least nerdiest things one can nerd our about. The original novels were aimed at an adult audience.
I do have a pair of Vuarnet sunglasses, but they are Vuarnet Skilynx Aciers as worn by Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I (1980-88) - I buy a lot of memorabilia and series accurate clothing from that series. I have posters of my favourite Bond films Thunderball (1965), On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), From Russia With Love (1963) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997). I also have a model of the Aston Martin DB5.
As I keep watching, kudos for mentioning immature moments. My wife and I visit Disneyland monthly, and have coworkers at our two jobs who we enjor talking about Marvel, Star Wars and film.
My struggle is more with not really feeling worthy of being in the community. I don’t have the money or looks to indulge in the fashion and lifestyle elements, nor am I really smart or talented enough to offer any unique perspective on the series. I just love the films, books, and soundtracks, but always find my questioning my tastes.
No, not at all, it's to be celebrated and not to be ashamed of. I am happy to live my life by the rules of Bond, Discipline, simplicity, keeping my own council and watching the world around me move at an accelerated pace. My style is contemporary, my limit is endless, my patience is thin and I don't suffer fools. The existence of Bond is all down to the real people behind the myth. I like your channel, I watch regularly and admire your passion. I am a firm believer that Bond is an example to men who may be slightly lost. Bond is not for everyone and I like it that way.
I know I analyze and live my life around Bond so deeply that others will never get it. I grew up in the six year gap where I was treated as an alien by everyone else. Still am. The only things I’m embarrassed by are the atrocious Craig era desecrating the character and series legacy+the continual attempts to turn Bond into nothing but luxury branding.
Even though I'm kind of ashamed of sharing my passions for certain things I like, James Bond is definitely one to put out there. The whole thing about the series being declared socially irrelevant and not as interesting as other franchises that draw in wider audiences and feature more colorful characters does bum me out sometimes. I'm Gen Z, so hardly anyone in my generation outside of a few exceptions are interested in Bond to same degree as myself.
I am and continue to be embarrassed, in fact, amazed to know that there are fans of James Bond, for all his qualities, and that he likes Daniel Craig in the role.
Fantastic video and very insightful. I thought of the Trekkies documentaries that I watched about different Star Trek fans. People at work know I am a James Bond fan as well as a reader.
Very cool video. Enjoying James Bond really makes life so fun! Also Bond has probably encouraged so many of us to be better and get into fitness. #007Fam
I think for me since the age of 6, my openess with liking James Bond has fluctuated. At first it was surprise, then ridicule from family (ironically it was my Old Man who got me into the Bond movies), ridicule from a teacher when I was 7, ridicule from people in primary/high school with other people occasionally showing interest. Nowadays, I got a lot of friends who are accepting of me liking Bond and since the pandemic, my love of the franchise strengthened even more. There's more I could say on it. But nah, I'm dying on the hill for openly talking about James Bond 007. Star Wars too. Obviously depends on appropriate circumstances, but it doesn't bother me too much if people don't like what I like. What I try to do is give reasons why I personally go on about these things and take it from there! :)
The embarrassment comes because fans associate loving Bond/Harry Potter/Star Wars/Marvel/etc to something they believe most people grow out of in their teens or early adulthood. It's an internalized stigma.
I think being a Bond fan is less embarrassing or geeky than other popular culture like Star Wars and Star Trek. Love both of those too! Like others have said, enjoying Bond, collecting Bond is more mainstream, real life coolness than pure fantasy, Sci fi toys and cosplay and the like.
embarassed...not a chance! Should I be embarrassed to have a closet stocked with Turnbull & Asser, watch cases filled with Omega and Rolex, and aspirations to travel to all the stunning destinations in one of the greatest collections of escapism for men-of-style in all of literature. Fleming penned something extraordinary. Getting the driveway redone so it looks amazing with my inbound DB12 parked on it.
Yeah, like everyone else has said, I completely agree with the sentiment here. I'm proud to be a Bond fan in every sense. From what I learnt from the films and books have served me well over the years. From dealing with people to travel ideas. But I'm curious about this "only 4 hours sleep".... how?? I'm learning Japanese at the moment, so I need more time in my life! is there a video where you've spoken about this doing this?
If you are truly ashamed of a hobby of yours, then you shouldn’t have that hobby. If you perceive your hobby as shameful to others, that’s normal, but it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying it. Make your personal space a place for your passion, maybe drop little hints in the outside world that offer you a chance to connect with others, but respect that there’s a time and place for it. The only time I would say embarrassment is properly justified is when one reaches the point of obsession.
Great video! This is such good advice in general! I love Bond Films but also big Lego fan. Used to be ashamed buying Lego in front of others but learnt to stop caring what others thought. So glad i did! Whatever is your passion, don't let others ruin it! You may feel in the minority but find other like-minded individuals to connect with!
Bond is a pretty good template to aim for. He’s strong, resourceful, intelligent and driven. 4 things that today’s society seem to disapprove of nowadays. Yet they’re ok with someone at the office wanting to be a ferbie or something like that. I’m reticent to suggest the classic Connery movies to people under 30. There’s no explosions or gun shots every 30 seconds, you have to have the patience to watch a scene and check the background, notice and interpret a facial expression, etc. They have little time for that. They seem to need an action break every 10 minutes to keep them with it. Connery’s Bond was often a bit of a detective. Not a brooding,angsty guy. Sadly “From Russia With Love” and “Goldfinger”, 2 of the best wouldn’t fly with today’s Z-Lenials. It’s either not enough action and too much to think about, or that Bond is too problematic. Problematic is the woke code word for we need to sanitize this. In England they’re re - releasing the Fleming books in their sanitized versions. Doing their best to neuter everything that is great about the character.
LOL I know the feeling.... but only really from the second half of NTTD and especially the ending when I think he wanted to make a statement as I'm sure he had input to that decision. It disrespected the Bond story and fans.
On reflection I am not sure he ever really liked the job or the character, his main motivation (other than money) seemed to be it it gave him the opportunity to make the projects he really wanted to do.
Once people at work were talking about Bond movies and the actors. There was of course a discussion about which is your favorite bond. Most people chose Sean Connery. I selected Daniel Craig. A couple of people chose Roger Moore. I’ll never get the Roger Moore people. Those films are just too comedic for me. Nothing against Moore, I loved him as The Saint just not Bond. One person inevitably brought up how could Bond be a spy when he’s so flashy and ostentatious and people seemed to know him. I said, “You see, Bond isn’t your typical spy. By the time MI6 sends Bond in, much of the spy work is done. They know what’s going on they just need it stopped. That’s when they activate a ‘Double-O’ agent. ‘Double-O’ agents with their fancy cars, clothes, and do-dads aren’t so much spies as they are provocateurs. They are weapons in and of themselves. They are sent in to get a reaction out of the bad guy, and if that is not enough, be the final solution to the problem and end him.” One guy suggested I’d put too much thought into it and I was a bit embarrassed, yes. But ultimately no. I love me some Bond and I don’t care who knows. I just wish they’d pick a new one and make some more movies already!
My own wife shamed me. I've been a Bond fan since his first movie. She talked me out of going to the Bond fans gathering in NJ this year. She said I'm not a real fan.😢
A simple fact I've come to realise is people just don't understand other people's interests or hobbies if they don't fit their own narrative of what's considered "normal" , "sensible". Or increasingly "woke" ideals.
Zaritsky: "We live in a society..." 4:40 This is a Joker qoute. Google it. I'm Batman, David. You're Bond. Stay in your wheelhouse. Now I am going to eat some vichyssoise that Alfred made. It's supposed to be cold.
Some of the online discourse surrounding James Bond is just stupid and hateful. It ranges from banal to shocking. I’ve seen people use James Bond as an outlet to espouse openly racist and bigoted opinions. We’re just supposed to tolerate that? I’m aware of the character’s sometimes sordid past but there seems to be a rotten element to some peoples enjoyment of him. I don’t think it’s reflective of the entire fan base but there is definitely a vocal minority that have made it harder for those of us who are sane.
What I can find embarrassing is the excessive roleplay sometimes... for example, Forgotten Weapons (a great YT channel on firearms) has been making videos about Bond handguns in preparation for a book they're about to release. The book's author is very knowledgeable, but he has some really cringe moments like "I love that holster, I got married in that holster"
Great video. I have a big event coming up where it will be a big social gathering with potential customers. This will be a good way to start a conversation and embrace my 007 obsession 😊🍸
Here’s my take David and I hope you don’t get upset for what I’m about ready to say right now I am very embarrassed about being a James Bond fan and I should not feel like this first of all Daniel Craig. I know you love him and I know you respect him but I do not and here is my take on him. The only reason why Casino Royale was such a hit was the big gap in between die another Day that was played by Pierce Brosnan believe me that movie how does problems which I’m not going to get into, they took Casino royale off the shelf, duplicated it and sent it out to the public. It showed absolutely no event of riding, and it was just a one off knock off, casting of Daniel Craig was totally off the mark. He doesn’t even look like what James Bond should look like his James Bond was nothing more like a whiny two-year-old I do not want to see my James Bond like that. I want to see a strong independent and know who he is after casino royale. The rest of his movies were nothing but filler and nothing but glorify fanfiction, and the nail in the coffin to me was Spectre, it was awful. I knew right then in there when they made blow field bonds stepbrother, and they were raised together that they did not care about the books. They did not care about continuity and you have to care about what you were doing and you’re comes no Time to die come on killing off bond, the golden goose that laid the golden eggs are you kidding me? Do you think Cubby broccoli would do that? No, he would not, but here comes his daughter that literally does not care about the franchise in that had feelings for Daniel Craig. We all know it and it’s just sad because I was brought up on James bond by my grandmother and my mother through Goldfinger Dr., no in Russia with love and we all know it was Sean Connery Do you think David that Sean Connery or Nevin or Roger Moore would be thankful and would be happy for what Barbara broccoli has done to the franchise and the riders know they would not. They would be very disgusted at her for what she has done and it’s just sad because right now I feel like John Wick played by Keanu Reeves had more passion for the role than what Daniel Craig had for James Bond you can see through the screen when I went to see John Wick that Keanu Reeves really cared. You can see the passion that he had for what he was doing and he did not stay because as I say, every single time, Daniel Craig would have a big fit in a tantrum that he wanted to leave Barbara broccoli would open up eon productions, bank account and give him more money so that just tells me that he was just there for the money and to get his butt kissed by every interviewer that wanted to interview him and when you bleed your own personal thoughts through into a character, that means you do not have the passion to play the role anymore and that’s why I feel the way I feel right now I feel like I’ve been disrespected and my voice is not heard and that is just very sad and that is just my take on it and I am sorry that this is so long, but this is the way I feel and have a nice day David
The producers and the Fleming estate seemed to be embarrassed by the Bond legacy to me. It's infuriating that for decades it's all about addressing Bond's internal sins, from subverting Bond's character to rewriting Fleming.
No embarrassment here at all…quite the opposite in fact! I don’t follow any sports…never have…and don’t plan to. Bond is my “thing” along with competitive pistol shooting. My shooting along with all the other Bondian elements make a great hobby and serve as an excellent conversation starter. This life is too short and too tough not to enjoy it the way you want to the full.
Not directly related. Here's an interesting video on the style of Bond women ruclips.net/video/KWWc8y1dmLI/видео.htmlsi=hJftzFUObPUFXFLX It would be interesting for David and Danielle to comment.
As a 58 year old ? Two months ago you stated that you were 56 ? I'm 57 and it's getting me down. I think my chance to play Bond is probably over. Oh well.
No. I love bond movies. Most of them. And I generally don’t care what people think. But if you think the Craig films are the best, you’re wrong. Still haven’t seen the last one. Probably never will.
There's a difference between having fun , wearing the nice clothes & watches, but then there's trying to base your entire personality on a fictional character which is extremely unhealthy and probably requires lots of therapy.
Not at all, apart from the dreadful Craig era. I think being a Bond fan is certainly more credible and respectable than being a Marvel, Superhero or Lord of the Rings type genre fan.
It's no fun anymoore. James Bond was out every two or so years and we knew he would be cool like a cactus and would win. He was fun and made us enjoy the life he was enjoying. Now it's just a flat line. And I dread what might happen next. I blame the French.
I think a valid source of embarrassment would be that people rightly see Bond as a sexist and racist franchise (the latter moreso with the books) and although things have got better with the changing times, that stigma still clings to it.
James Bond is awesome. Unfortunately the whole movie industry went woke about 20 years ago and has slowly destroyed every franchise that was beloved. Star Wars dead Indiana Jones dead Bond dead DR Who dead And so on. Bond really took a bad turn from SKYFALL onwards. They made him into perma pissed off EMO bond with kids. Until the woke mind virus is expunged you are only going to get woke versions of your favourite characters.
Unlike other franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, Dr Who etc. Bond is the easiest to integrate into your daily real life; classy watches, classy suits and clothes, classy cars, it’s not cosplaying, its not geeky, it’s the appreciation of the Bond style and aspirational brands, no different to what you see in GQ or Esquire magazines. As a young boy it was Bond got me into cars, watches and gadgets that has stuck with me ever since, the influence is deeper than just the films.
Yes, and the reading involved is based in world history and literature. It's not world building but connected to the real world even if exaggerated.
I've been obsessed with Bond since I was about 3 years old. I'd throw a tantrum if I knew Bond was on television and my parents were taking me out. I'd make my school friends play"James Bond" In the playground and get them to set questions about James Bond and test me.
I'm now 44 and I've never met another person that is as passionate about Bond as me, sure they say they enjoy the films but not in the way I do.
I can hear the first bar of any of the music and I know which film it's from, even John Barry's other music I know immediately it's him.
I went to see Q The Music this year and cried the moment they started playing. I'm a member of For Bond Fans Only on Facebook and it's like "finally I've found my people". I love your channel by the way.
Passion Overwhelming, Concern That The Bond Movies Are Edited For T.V.What Do You Collect.
I'm 48 and I'm like you and I'm alone in my love for Bond. I've loved it since I was 5. I met Roger Moore once and it was part of my life that I will never forget ❤️
Huge Bond fan. Not embarrassed about it, but I do wish I had someone IRL that shared my passion for the franchise. I only know other Bond fans through the internet.
Were you based ?
I agree that the Bond franchise is one of the few where you can wear clothes from a film, especially one of recent films, and not look like it is cosplay.
I wear Bond 'on my sleeve', along with Doctor Who, Superman and Sherlock Holmes. I see no difference between this and someone else liking football or going to the theatre. At the end of the day, all the above are meant to be fun.
There is a reason James Bond is a part of pop culture, he's popular!!!
As always, thank you for the motivation David. Creators like you and Calvin Dyson inspired me to start my own 007 channel earlier this year. From a creative standpoint, I like to keep my true identity hidden much like a Bond villain. However, you are totally right, the ultimate goal is to share our passions with others and connect. Starting now, I will be more outspoken and confident in my love of Bond, by sharing more with friends and family. Thank you & cheers from Orlando!
Good question.
I have loved 007 since I was a child, and all my friends and family know this.
The thing about 007, is that a lot of the ‘moments’ can be part of everyday life that those in the know can notice.
When I started my Instagram page I loved interacting with the community, but I was embarrassed around friends and family. The more that my friends and family discover my page and see how big the fan world is they all get it and support it.
Everyone has a ‘thing’, why not embrace it. I’ve learnt life’s too short to worry about what other people think
David I have to say I think you are r wonderful! The sangfroid and natural debonair charm you exude is compelling and infectious. I am so glad I found your channel. I was taken as a 12 year old boy by my father to see Dr No in 1962 and from that first gunbarrel onwards I have been obsessed with all things Bond. Roger Moore went to my school albeit before me and was already a hero of mine as the Saint and Danger Man with Patrick McGoohan was a favourite of mine I wrote McGoohan a letter to which he replied with signed pictures and without ego, I had also spent most nights as a teenager reading Flemings books to the Dawn light and I am 73 years ild now and still as obsessed with 007. The manner in which you represent us all in the Bond Community at your meetings with significant people such as Wilson and Broccoli is appreciated more than you know. I would just like to add as a viewpoint on how the films could have been improved. I have king thought that the Thunderball/ On Her Majesty’s Secret Service/ You Only Live Twice trio of books coukd have been dealt with more realistically on film with particular disappointment with the cartoonish hurried pre tiltke sequence in Fiamonds are Forever. I would have cast one actor as Blofeld from the start and my choice would have been the Austrian/German actor Anton Diffring who is best remembered as the SA Colonel in Where Eagles Dare. In reality he was anti Nazi and fled Europe during the War only ironically to corner the market as the quintessential Nazi in many films of the fifties and sixties including a portrayal as Reinhard Heydrich one if the prime architects of the Holocaust. One actor as Felix Leiter would have also been better. Sorry I went off fat a tangent but I had to get t to hat thought off my chest! Thanks David for all you do it’s very much appreciated in the United Kingdom.
Completely agree with all points here, in fact your open adoration of Bond is a big reason I’m a fan of the channel. There is no reason to care what others think, and the proof is in the product, the Bond community is really really fantastic, with a lot of people like yourself or Calvin who are extremely successful in “conventional” senses.
Your passions don’t have a bearing on anything else.
Love what you love. Geeking out about Bond is harmless and if it helps bring joy to your life run with it and let those whose lives are so miserable they have to cut down others wallow in their misery.
I would love to see a series of movies, maybe on Netflix, where they follow Flemming's books more closely. I would still love to see the big movies at the cinema, as well.
I would also love to see David do some interviews with real life spies and Tier 1 one operators on things people can do to make their lives safer and, dare I say it, make good men more dangerous for bad men to hurt, just like JB. Owning a Walther PPK isn't the same as knowing how to use one. Crazy talk, I know, but I would still like to see it.
Depending on the person. We don't want to blow our cover. Always on duty. For King and Country.
At first I was embarrassed and weird because I thought I was the only women passioned about Bond, more is mostly associated and passioned to men rather than women. But now when I saw few women talk and be passioned about Bond in social media platforms I don't feel alone and embarrassed anymore, I feel more open, confident and empowered than ever before. Then I started to collect Bond items, talking freely to encourage my family, my friends and other people who are Bond fans or not to live the Bond experience with me, go to travel Bond destinations which I went earlier this year to London and going to events which on the 15th February next year I will attend Skyfall in Concert in Malta for the first time ever organized this type of concert in our capital city Valletta and I am looking forward to it!
Thank you for this video. It resonates with me on such a deep level. Since a very early age, it's been my hobby to collect merchandise from James Bond and The A-Team television series. I've never hidden my passion for this hobby despite some negativity from a small minority and I even have my very own man cave littered in both Bond and A-Team collectables. Just recently, a work colleague told me how much they admire my personal enthusiasm for my hobby, and luckily, my partner has always been supportive and understanding as she has her own passion for The Twilight Saga. It's truly wonderful to know that there are so many like-minded people, and I wholeheartedly agree with your statement that it's a super fun way of escaping the often harsh realities of everyday life.
This is definitely an issue I have, but its not out of embarrassment, I fall into the category of just not being able to flaunt my face on social media in general. So I enjoy sharing my hobbies and interests and still getting to protect my identity. But I would still love to meet my fellow Bond community members face to face!!!
Being a Bond fan is like being a "classy nerd" so there is little to be embarrassed about.
Bond fans are so loyal. Why aren't the Bond producers?
Now THAT'S the question.
Too many sheik cocktail party invites on the line for them...
Interesting discussion. In my case, my work and social circle is steeped in film and pop culture yet most don't care much about James Bond. It's easier to converse about Marvel and Star Wars. Discussing Bond peaks peoples interesst when discussing vacations to Bond film locations.
You know something I always thought would be cool as hell would be for the big Bond fans to get together and try to make their own fan movie
I enjoy your enthusiasm and energy David. The show is great.
Totally agree
Think young, feel young, stay young. Be proud. ❤
I collect memorabilia from the James Bond, Star Wars (OT & prequels) and Star Trek (films 1979-1986) franchises. My favourite brands from the Bond franchise are Fred Perry, Barbour, Ted Baker, and Orlebar Brown. However, I choose clothes that suit my personality and style preference - I buy very little that is screen accurate. I don’t wear an Omega or Rolex watch…I wear the CWC SBS Diver Issue day/date Quartz watch - the real watch of the British Royal Navy’s Special Boat Service.
I’ve been James Bond fan
since 1969! Her Majesty Secret Service is the first James Bond film. I saw in a movie theater. Don’t really think I need to say more just the best. 007 for ever!!
Everyone at work knows I love Bond, and they like it
Hell, no, I’m not embarrassed. I’m proud to be a James Bond fan My left arm is covered and nothing but James Bond tattoo and I’m proud to show that every day and talk about it.
Holy crap
Are you?so sorry
I am proud too.. although i am a woman and don't wear suits and iconic watch on my wrist...and talk about it to everybody
I am watching the Texas/ Florida game and Isaiah Bond just ran an end around for Texas for 44yards. They panned into the stands and a bunch of people did the James Bond with his gun to his chest move. With a player named Quintrevion Wisner that just scored a TD for Texas . . .players call him "Q". Can't make this stuff up.
Even an obscure college game shows people's love for Bond!!!!!
I'm a massive Bond fan and have been since I was 5 and never ever been embarrassed. I love your content and I normal is 007 in my life and culture we all share.
Hang on a second! I'm NOT paying your rent? Then what the hell are those checks for $346.62 that I send you every month for?
Thank you for your channel, for your words, your compassion and your love of Bond. You make it accessible and bring several points of view together. Well done, sir!
Now...about those checks...
I'm not massively obsessed just a fan, that being I have all the films on DVD, a few of the books (including biographies), like reading articles, I have a Omega Seamaster 300, I have a number of the clothing items (like the full outfits in GoldenEye, Skyfall etc). But you can be stealthy influenced (Fitness, attitude, style) without looking like a Bond cosplayer. You talk about "Bond Moments" in many of your videos, I can get that by just wearing a suit, an Omega driving a silver British car, like a Jaguar X-Type. I'm really just in it for the Bond moments, while stealing a few of the life style traits.
"No one gets out of childhood alive." Harlan Ellison.
David is basically telling us not to be gatekeepers. Some fandoms that's an issue.
I wore formal attire to the James Bond exhibit in Chicago and also took a Slideshow Connery figure with me. People reacted positively. I've had many who have enjoyed the pics I took of the props and vehicles displayed in the galleries.
My girlfriend is British and isn't into Bond much. I went to see her for a special date. I brought my Bond attache toy case with me to see her reaction. She did not reject me. She was fine and checked it out
In our defense, Bond is one of the least nerdiest things one can nerd our about. The original novels were aimed at an adult audience.
I do have a pair of Vuarnet sunglasses, but they are Vuarnet Skilynx Aciers as worn by Tom Selleck in Magnum, P.I (1980-88) - I buy a lot of memorabilia and series accurate clothing from that series. I have posters of my favourite Bond films Thunderball (1965), On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969), From Russia With Love (1963) and Tomorrow Never Dies (1997). I also have a model of the Aston Martin DB5.
Why would I be embarrassed.. bond is really cool and impeccable style
As I keep watching, kudos for mentioning immature moments. My wife and I visit Disneyland monthly, and have coworkers at our two jobs who we enjor talking about Marvel, Star Wars and film.
My struggle is more with not really feeling worthy of being in the community. I don’t have the money or looks to indulge in the fashion and lifestyle elements, nor am I really smart or talented enough to offer any unique perspective on the series. I just love the films, books, and soundtracks, but always find my questioning my tastes.
You are more than welcome!
No, not at all, it's to be celebrated and not to be ashamed of. I am happy to live my life by the rules of Bond, Discipline, simplicity, keeping my own council and watching the world around me move at an accelerated pace. My style is contemporary, my limit is endless, my patience is thin and I don't suffer fools. The existence of Bond is all down to the real people behind the myth. I like your channel, I watch regularly and admire your passion. I am a firm believer that Bond is an example to men who may be slightly lost. Bond is not for everyone and I like it that way.
I know I analyze and live my life around Bond so deeply that others will never get it. I grew up in the six year gap where I was treated as an alien by everyone else. Still am.
The only things I’m embarrassed by are the atrocious Craig era desecrating the character and series legacy+the continual attempts to turn Bond into nothing but luxury branding.
Even though I'm kind of ashamed of sharing my passions for certain things I like, James Bond is definitely one to put out there. The whole thing about the series being declared socially irrelevant and not as interesting as other franchises that draw in wider audiences and feature more colorful characters does bum me out sometimes. I'm Gen Z, so hardly anyone in my generation outside of a few exceptions are interested in Bond to same degree as myself.
I am and continue to be embarrassed, in fact, amazed to know that there are fans of James Bond, for all his qualities, and that he likes Daniel Craig in the role.
Fantastic video and very insightful. I thought of the Trekkies documentaries that I watched about different Star Trek fans. People at work know I am a James Bond fan as well as a reader.
Very cool video. Enjoying James Bond really makes life so fun! Also Bond has probably encouraged so many of us to be better and get into fitness. #007Fam
I think for me since the age of 6, my openess with liking James Bond has fluctuated. At first it was surprise, then ridicule from family (ironically it was my Old Man who got me into the Bond movies), ridicule from a teacher when I was 7, ridicule from people in primary/high school with other people occasionally showing interest.
Nowadays, I got a lot of friends who are accepting of me liking Bond and since the pandemic, my love of the franchise strengthened even more.
There's more I could say on it. But nah, I'm dying on the hill for openly talking about James Bond 007. Star Wars too. Obviously depends on appropriate circumstances, but it doesn't bother me too much if people don't like what I like. What I try to do is give reasons why I personally go on about these things and take it from there! :)
Nope... although occasionally I overdo the Bond 007 after shave!!!
The embarrassment comes because fans associate loving Bond/Harry Potter/Star Wars/Marvel/etc to something they believe most people grow out of in their teens or early adulthood. It's an internalized stigma.
Not at all. I just bought my first Omega watch and got into a conversation with him about our James Bond fandom and my visit last weekend at The 007.
I think being a Bond fan is less embarrassing or geeky than other popular culture like Star Wars and Star Trek. Love both of those too! Like others have said, enjoying Bond, collecting Bond is more mainstream, real life coolness than pure fantasy, Sci fi toys and cosplay and the like.
embarassed...not a chance! Should I be embarrassed to have a closet stocked with Turnbull & Asser, watch cases filled with Omega and Rolex, and aspirations to travel to all the stunning destinations in one of the greatest collections of escapism for men-of-style in all of literature. Fleming penned something extraordinary. Getting the driveway redone so it looks amazing with my inbound DB12 parked on it.
Yeah, like everyone else has said, I completely agree with the sentiment here.
I'm proud to be a Bond fan in every sense. From what I learnt from the films and books have served me well over the years. From dealing with people to travel ideas.
But I'm curious about this "only 4 hours sleep".... how??
I'm learning Japanese at the moment, so I need more time in my life!
is there a video where you've spoken about this doing this?
No, I'm not ashamed. I've never been ashamed. I adore James Bond, and I'll tell anybody.
Nice video. Very good Bond/ life advice.
you are a marketing rockstar! everythig you said is totaly true.
Totally agree 👍
Totally agree 👍
Totally agree 👍
If you are truly ashamed of a hobby of yours, then you shouldn’t have that hobby.
If you perceive your hobby as shameful to others, that’s normal, but it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying it. Make your personal space a place for your passion, maybe drop little hints in the outside world that offer you a chance to connect with others, but respect that there’s a time and place for it.
The only time I would say embarrassment is properly justified is when one reaches the point of obsession.
Great video! This is such good advice in general! I love Bond Films but also big Lego fan. Used to be ashamed buying Lego in front of others but learnt to stop caring what others thought. So glad i did! Whatever is your passion, don't let others ruin it! You may feel in the minority but find other like-minded individuals to connect with!
😄 🤣 😂 😆 that intro David
Bond is a pretty good template to aim for. He’s strong, resourceful, intelligent and driven. 4 things that today’s society seem to disapprove of nowadays. Yet they’re ok with someone at the office wanting to be a ferbie or something like that.
I’m reticent to suggest the classic Connery movies to people under 30. There’s no explosions or gun shots every 30 seconds, you have to have the patience to watch a scene and check the background, notice and interpret a facial expression, etc. They have little time for that. They seem to need an action break every 10 minutes to keep them with it. Connery’s Bond was often a bit of a detective. Not a brooding,angsty guy. Sadly “From Russia With Love” and “Goldfinger”, 2 of the best wouldn’t fly with today’s Z-Lenials. It’s either not enough action and too much to think about, or that Bond is too problematic. Problematic is the woke code word for we need to sanitize this. In England they’re re - releasing the Fleming books in their sanitized versions. Doing their best to neuter everything that is great about the character.
Go woke go broke
Great video David! It inspired me to create an Instagram profile to share my passion for James Bond 😁
I'm embarrassed I ever liked Daniel Craig, I know that much!
LOL I know the feeling.... but only really from the second half of NTTD and especially the ending when I think he wanted to make a statement as I'm sure he had input to that decision. It disrespected the Bond story and fans.
On reflection I am not sure he ever really liked the job or the character, his main motivation (other than money) seemed to be it it gave him the opportunity to make the projects he really wanted to do.
@@AthelstanEngland "It disrespected the Bond story and fans" - precisely, as indeed have his various comments about the role.
What a question 😅
Hell no.
Once people at work were talking about Bond movies and the actors. There was of course a discussion about which is your favorite bond. Most people chose Sean Connery. I selected Daniel Craig. A couple of people chose Roger Moore. I’ll never get the Roger Moore people. Those films are just too comedic for me. Nothing against Moore, I loved him as The Saint just not Bond.
One person inevitably brought up how could Bond be a spy when he’s so flashy and ostentatious and people seemed to know him. I said, “You see, Bond isn’t your typical spy. By the time MI6 sends Bond in, much of the spy work is done. They know what’s going on they just need it stopped. That’s when they activate a ‘Double-O’ agent. ‘Double-O’ agents with their fancy cars, clothes, and do-dads aren’t so much spies as they are provocateurs. They are weapons in and of themselves. They are sent in to get a reaction out of the bad guy, and if that is not enough, be the final solution to the problem and end him.”
One guy suggested I’d put too much thought into it and I was a bit embarrassed, yes. But ultimately no. I love me some Bond and I don’t care who knows. I just wish they’d pick a new one and make some more movies already!
My own wife shamed me. I've been a Bond fan since his first movie. She talked me out of going to the Bond fans gathering in NJ this year. She said I'm not a real fan.😢
A simple fact I've come to realise is people just don't understand other people's interests or hobbies if they don't fit their own narrative of what's considered "normal" , "sensible". Or increasingly "woke" ideals.
The more independent Bond girls and the detent aspect of the 70s and 80s bonds would bem Calles woke today. Tô me ALL that talk os bs.
I'm a wrestling fan. Tell me about it.
Zaritsky: "We live in a society..." 4:40 This is a Joker qoute. Google it. I'm Batman, David. You're Bond. Stay in your wheelhouse. Now I am going to eat some vichyssoise that Alfred made. It's supposed to be cold.
Thank you for this ❤Regards from Norwegian Bond fan
Well done, David.
No……and neither is my son James Bond.
Some of the online discourse surrounding James Bond is just stupid and hateful. It ranges from banal to shocking. I’ve seen people use James Bond as an outlet to espouse openly racist and bigoted opinions. We’re just supposed to tolerate that? I’m aware of the character’s sometimes sordid past but there seems to be a rotten element to some peoples enjoyment of him. I don’t think it’s reflective of the entire fan base but there is definitely a vocal minority that have made it harder for those of us who are sane.
I agree, and I find Facebook particularly bad for this. Here and Instagram seem far more positive.
What I can find embarrassing is the excessive roleplay sometimes... for example, Forgotten Weapons (a great YT channel on firearms) has been making videos about Bond handguns in preparation for a book they're about to release. The book's author is very knowledgeable, but he has some really cringe moments like "I love that holster, I got married in that holster"
Never let other people define who you are. Hey, none of us are enlightened enough to know who/what we are, right?
Great video. I have a big event coming up where it will be a big social gathering with potential customers. This will be a good way to start a conversation and embrace my 007 obsession 😊🍸
I worry about the future of Bond. Babs and Michael don't seem to be prioritising making Bond great again.
Here’s my take David and I hope you don’t get upset for what I’m about ready to say right now I am very embarrassed about being a James Bond fan and I should not feel like this first of all Daniel Craig. I know you love him and I know you respect him but I do not and here is my take on him. The only reason why Casino Royale was such a hit was the big gap in between die another Day that was played by Pierce Brosnan believe me that movie how does problems which I’m not going to get into, they took Casino royale off the shelf, duplicated it and sent it out to the public. It showed absolutely no event of riding, and it was just a one off knock off, casting of Daniel Craig was totally off the mark. He doesn’t even look like what James Bond should look like his James Bond was nothing more like a whiny two-year-old I do not want to see my James Bond like that. I want to see a strong independent and know who he is after casino royale. The rest of his movies were nothing but filler and nothing but glorify fanfiction, and the nail in the coffin to me was Spectre, it was awful. I knew right then in there when they made blow field bonds stepbrother, and they were raised together that they did not care about the books. They did not care about continuity and you have to care about what you were doing and you’re comes no Time to die come on killing off bond, the golden goose that laid the golden eggs are you kidding me? Do you think Cubby broccoli would do that? No, he would not, but here comes his daughter that literally does not care about the franchise in that had feelings for Daniel Craig. We all know it and it’s just sad because I was brought up on James bond by my grandmother and my mother through Goldfinger Dr., no in Russia with love and we all know it was Sean Connery Do you think David that Sean Connery or Nevin or Roger Moore would be thankful and would be happy for what Barbara broccoli has done to the franchise and the riders know they would not. They would be very disgusted at her for what she has done and it’s just sad because right now I feel like John Wick played by Keanu Reeves had more passion for the role than what Daniel Craig had for James Bond you can see through the screen when I went to see John Wick that Keanu Reeves really cared. You can see the passion that he had for what he was doing and he did not stay because as I say, every single time, Daniel Craig would have a big fit in a tantrum that he wanted to leave Barbara broccoli would open up eon productions, bank account and give him more money so that just tells me that he was just there for the money and to get his butt kissed by every interviewer that wanted to interview him and when you bleed your own personal thoughts through into a character, that means you do not have the passion to play the role anymore and that’s why I feel the way I feel right now I feel like I’ve been disrespected and my voice is not heard and that is just very sad and that is just my take on it and I am sorry that this is so long, but this is the way I feel and have a nice day David
100%
@ thank you because it is true
The producers and the Fleming estate seemed to be embarrassed by the Bond legacy to me. It's infuriating that for decades it's all about addressing Bond's internal sins, from subverting Bond's character to rewriting Fleming.
Can't be embarrassed of something I don't have.
Embarrassed I make it a point to tell people my love of James Bond.
No embarrassment here at all…quite the opposite in fact! I don’t follow any sports…never have…and don’t plan to. Bond is my “thing” along with competitive pistol shooting. My shooting along with all the other Bondian elements make a great hobby and serve as an excellent conversation starter. This life is too short and too tough not to enjoy it the way you want to the full.
Not directly related. Here's an interesting video on the style of Bond women ruclips.net/video/KWWc8y1dmLI/видео.htmlsi=hJftzFUObPUFXFLX
It would be interesting for David and Danielle to comment.
Where are the James Bond conventions?
Is it wrong to have your man buy and wear 007 apparel? LOL
Nooo. I'm proud!
I owe some of my maturation and sophistication To Ian and Bond!
It is hard to cover up your Bond-mania. But how can you be embarrassed when you are wearing your suit and tie...that is my armor.
As a 58 year old ?
Two months ago you stated that you were 56 ?
I'm 57 and it's getting me down.
I think my chance to play Bond is probably over.
Oh well.
No. I love bond movies. Most of them. And I generally don’t care what people think. But if you think the Craig films are the best, you’re wrong. Still haven’t seen the last one. Probably never will.
Is this kind of similar to talking about being a "Trekkie" for loving Star Trek?
Make Bond Escapism Again!!!
I'll never be "ashamed" of being a Bond fan.
But they do disappoint me from time to time. Like the last two films for example ..
Heck no
Hell no!
Embarrassed! Bond is sexy and classy. I'm a proud fan!
Bond Experience Collection Owning Up To Display Ian Fleming James Bond Memorabilia, Evaulate Your Privacy, Have Fun Be Hobbyist.
There's a difference between having fun , wearing the nice clothes & watches, but then there's trying to base your entire personality on a fictional character which is extremely unhealthy and probably requires lots of therapy.
👍🏻
Absolutely not!!
Not at all, apart from the dreadful Craig era.
I think being a Bond fan is certainly more credible and respectable than being a Marvel, Superhero or Lord of the Rings type genre fan.
100% agreed. Most bond fans are well kept, well mannered and well educated, unlike the slovenly Star Wars mega nerds
I don't concern myself with the opinions of others on my hobbies or passions bro.
Embarrassed...not in the fucking slightest.
It's no fun anymoore. James Bond was out every two or so years and we knew he would be cool like a cactus and would win. He was fun and made us enjoy the life he was enjoying. Now it's just a flat line. And I dread what might happen next. I blame the French.
i don't understand this one at all. who's embarrassed to be a Bond fan? it's one of the biggest franchises of all time. odd
I think a valid source of embarrassment would be that people rightly see Bond as a sexist and racist franchise (the latter moreso with the books) and although things have got better with the changing times, that stigma still clings to it.
There is nothing embarrassing about being a fan of James Bond what a stupid question.....
Relax, Francis….watch the video.
No.
I am embarrassed of the woke trash they made out of this franchise
James Bond is awesome.
Unfortunately the whole movie industry went woke about 20 years ago and has slowly destroyed every franchise that was beloved.
Star Wars dead
Indiana Jones dead
Bond dead
DR Who dead
And so on.
Bond really took a bad turn from SKYFALL onwards. They made him into perma pissed off EMO bond with kids.
Until the woke mind virus is expunged you are only going to get woke versions of your favourite characters.
Woke doesn't mean anything. It was just a fake word to get Trump elected.
Ah yes ruclips.net/user/clipUgkxbs-HPIU4Qp0xE7Zpde0xqJY5eozfa4bd?si=etBYQ0E2b46WsTkV