Soderbergh’s Wild Ideas for Bond

Imagine this: “The name’s Bond, James Bond.” “Oh really? That’s funny! My name is also Bond, James Bond, but I come from a universe where the drinks are extra shaken and the action is over-the-top in a whole new way!” Sounds kooky, right? Well, it’s not too far from what famed filmmaker Steven Soderbergh would have conjured up for the iconic spy series if he ever got his shot.

The 2008 Proposal

Back in 2008, Soderbergh pitched a different take on the Bond universe to the legendary Barbara Broccoli. Picture this: a parallel franchise set in the swingin’ 1960s. It would be R-rated, with a side of violence and sizzling spice—that’s right, folks, we’re talking about a Bond that’s sexy-time with real historical events sprinkled in. No tuxedos required!

Low Budget Dreams

He envisioned executing this project on a shoestring budget, a radical departure from the current Bond films that shower cash on sophisticated stunts and outlandish production values. Even though Broccoli found the pitch intriguing, it unfortunately fizzled out. But did that stop Soderbergh? Nope! He just switched gears.

The Twofer Pitch

Fast forward a few years, and Soderbergh is back in the game, throwing down an audacious proposition: “Why not have both?” He wanted an extravagant modern-day Bond, and also that funky 60s spinoff. Picture him saying, “C’mon, I’ve got ideas for both worlds, but you gotta commit! No half measures!”

Was He Ahead of His Time?

So, what happened? Two attempts, two heads-scratchers! But maybe, just maybe, Soderbergh was onto something. Could we handle two Bonds, played by different actors, vibing out in separate cinematic universes? It’s a quirky thought that may not be too far from reality now. Get ready for this magic as we’re set to witness something similar soon in the world of superheroes. Over at the Batcave, Bruce Wayne is gearing up to strut his stuff, played by Robert Pattinson in some Elseworlds fun, while another actor takes the stage in Andy Muschietti’s The Brave and the Bold.