Originally posted by Triton
If we can include non-Eon actors, I also vote for Bernie Casey. He is by far the best actor to portray Felix Leiter, the other actors don't even come close, and there seems to be a sense of genuine friendship and history between Bond and Leiter in their scenes together in NSNA.
I agree....they do seem to have a genuine friendship and history together. I think Bernie Casey did a great job in NSNA.
Originally posted by Triton
If they show Felix Leiter in Bond XXI they MUST give the actor a three picture deal. I am tired of the producers changing the actor each time we see this character. The rest of the Bond ensemble doesn't change that much from film to film, they need to build some continuity with Bond's best friend. They need to cast someone who is the American equivalent of Bond in style, education, and fitness. For some reason Alec Baldwin comes to mind, but perhaps the producers can cast an unknown who would be perfect for Leiter.
I read one time that the reason they have changed actors (at least in the early years) was for fear that the Leiter character may upstage the Bond character. I guess the tradition stuck until they returned Hedison in LTK.
Originally posted by Triton
No more slobby and stupid Jack Wade for comic relief. I do like Joe Don Baker, but sheesh. Doesn't Bond realize he is arms dealer Brad Whittaker?
I actually really like the Wade character...sure he was a little out of place in TND but I thought he was funny as heck in GE. I also have a great admiration for the actor Joe Don Baker.
Originally posted by Triton
Michael Madsen's NSA agent Damian Falco is no Felix Leiter either. He pretty much fit the "ugly American" stereotype during his dealings with M. The character needs to catch a bullet.
Rumors are flying that he will return at a future date, perhaps your wish will be granted