Author Ian Fleming (1908-64) lived with the insouciance and
bad behaviour reserved for those who have resigned themselves to an early death.
Menefreghismo is an Italian noun which connotes one’s approach to life; it translates–
roughly – as ‘don’t give a shit’. It’s hard to discern what held Fleming’s
interest, but he certainly lived with a free form, unbridled, if not erotic,
passion that seems awkward to a modern sensibility.
And that’s where James Bond comes in. Menefreghismo.
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| Ursula Andress & the ratio |
Although about one half of the Bond novels were published in
the 1960s, their genealogical roots are embedded in 50’s, and even earlier. That’s
why a female character can be named ‘Pussy Galore’. Not a big deal at the time.
And that’s why James Bond, in books and films, was
successful. Fleming knew how to balance the critical sex/death ratio like few
authors before—or since. He was so good at it—and it is the ratio that gives
the early films their life. When, later, the ratio became unstable, so began
the era of Bad Bonds.
The ratio is based on the notion that the proximity of death
heightens sexual tension—and, importantly, vice-versa. That’s one reason why you
will never see a child in a Bond film—for a child is the strongest representation
of Life we have. It just messes with the balance.
The ratio is based on post-WW II notions of masculinity and femininity. Small wonder Fleming was among John F. Kennedy's favorite authors. Times change. JB (James Bond) got the JB (Jason Bourne) reboot in Casino Royale (2006). Now it was mostly about hand-to-hand fighting, lightning cuts, and constant close-ups. However, the ratio did appear, however warily, when needed.
Ian Fleming died as he lived, fully aware that
the ratio was unlivable. But longevity was never the point for Fleming, or
Bond. It was to greet Death at his own door, look in his eyes, and say, ‘Your
move’.
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#danielcraig #seanconnery #1960s #popculture #popularculture #film
#casinoroyale