Daniel Craig, the British actor famed for his portrayal of James Bond, has been making headlines again, but this time for his reflections on his career and his new film, "Queer." During recent interviews, Craig has opened up about the emotional challenges of fame, the toll of his iconic role as 007, and the creative opportunities he is exploring post-Bond.
Speaking with the U.K.’s Sunday Times, Craig shared thoughts about his new film directed by Luca Guadagnino, based on William S. Burroughs’ semi-autobiographical novella from 1985. He explained, "I couldn’t have done this [‘Queer’] when doing Bond. It would look reactionary, like I was showing my range." This statement speaks to the limitations he felt during his tenure as 007, where the monumental expectations and commitment to the franchise left little room for other creative endeavors.
Craig, who took on the role of the iconic British secret agent from 2006 to 2021, acknowledged the emotional drain it placed not just on himself but also on his family. “I did. I loved every second of it. I mean, some of it was tough and weird and strange and emotionally kind of difficult for everybody, including my family. The fame is weird,” he stated during his conversation at the British Film Institute (BFI) alongside film critic Mark Kermode.
Throughout his Bond career, Craig starred in five films starting with "Casino Royale" and concluding with "No Time to Die." The responsibilities and pressures of being the face of such a high-profile franchise took their toll: "Early on with Bond I thought I had to do other work, but I didn’t. I was becoming a star, whatever... but they left me empty. Then, bottom line, I got paid," Craig remarked candidly, shedding light on the dichotomy between success and personal fulfillment.
Interestingly, Craig also touched upon societal expectations surrounding masculinity and representation. He dismissed the notion of needing to make bold statements about gender roles by portraying LGBTQ+ characters. "It’s just not a conversation I wanted. I had it all the way through Bond anyway... Could there be this Bond? That Bond?" he explained, emphasizing his desire to focus on the craft rather than engage with potentially controversial discussions.
Looking back, Craig remembered some milestone moments during his career, particularly his interactions with influential directors like Steven Spielberg during the filming of "Munich." He fondly recounted his experience working with Spielberg: "I think, rather Brilliantly, he doesn’t give you an awful lot. He arrives the day before shooting and he leaves the night of." The memory emphasizes the unique challenge and pressure of acting under such iconic filmmakers.
Craig's reflections are timely as he gears up for his next role, reprising the character of Detective Benoit Blanc for Rian Johnson’s third "Knives Out" film, titled "Wake Up Dead Man." He expressed enthusiasm for the franchise, stating, "If [Johnson] keeps writing them like this, then yes, I will play it," adding humorously, "it's much easier on the limbs" compared to the physically demanding role of Bond.
His return as Blanc carries the potential to showcase Craig’s versatility as he steps away from the shadows of Bond's legacy. His upcoming film "Queer," released by A24, is already generating buzz, especially since Craig received a Golden Globe nomination for his riveting performance. Reflecting on this achievement, he shared, "I try and be cool about it but I can’t, it's amazing.”
With Queer now showing in U.S. theaters and set for release in the U.K. on December 13, 2023, Craig stands at the cusp of what may well be the most transformative phase of his career. His candid insights serve as lessons about the complexity of fame and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being over public expectations.
Craig’s ability to articulate his experiences with such honesty and openness offers a refreshing perspective on life after Bond, and it reminds both fans and fellow actors of the human side of celebrity. It raises the question: what lies next for the former 007 now free from the burdens of his much-loved character? The answer may well be revealed through the passion projects he chooses as he continues down this new path of artistic exploration.