Screenwriter Paul Haggis speaks of James Bond Begins concept for Casino Royale

Oscar-nominated screenwriter Paul Haggis, who joined Casino Royale production last month to polish the script, has spoken briefly to the Hollywood Reporter about his work on the film and the prospect of a younger James Bond 007.

The trade paper said that whilst in Toronto, "Haggis returned to his hotel room to work on his polish of the 21st James Bond film, "Casino Royale." "It's going to be good," he says. "We're trying to reinvent Bond. He's 28: no Q, no gadgets."

This confirms earlier reports that the producers and director Martin Campbell wanted "Casino Royale" to follow a "Bond Begins" concept, much like the recently rejuvenated Batman franchise.

Long-term Bond fans may recall that Michael G. Wilson wanted to take 007 back to his early career after Roger Moore's tenure as Bond was over in 1985, but producer Cubby Broccoli decided to stick with the tried and tested formula and hired Timothy Dalton to star in "The Living Daylights". Twenty years on and now a co-producer, Wilson is trying out the concept again.

This clashes with the studio, who want Pierce Brosnan to return for a fifth time and a guaranteed box-office success. Sony have asked Brosnan to come back, but the four-times 007 said that the invitation has to come from the producers.

The search for an actor to play a younger Bond is proving difficult, with neither party finding common ground on any of the contenders. With the start date of principal photography looming in January, a decision one way or another is needed soon to avoid a significant delay in production.

Thanks to `JP` for the alert.

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