How This Thrilling Spy Movie Gave Samuel L. Jackson a Shot at His James Bond Dream
Many people agree that one of Hollywood’s most successful and adaptable performers is Samuel L. Jackson. Jackson has established himself as a mainstay in popular movies thanks to his amazing resume of parts in a variety of genres, such as ‘Marvel’, ‘Star Wars’, and ‘The Incredibles’. However, he feels that joining the renowned James Bond franchise may never be a reality, despite it being one of his personal aspirations. Luckily, his part in ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’ gave him a chance to experience something like being a villain in James Bond.
Jackson talked about how he wanted to be in a Bond movie and how portraying the villain Richmond Valentine in ‘Kingsman’ fulfilled that goal in an interview for the movie. There are numerous allusions to Bond, especially its fantastical antagonists, in this satirical and homage to the espionage genre. Many of the characteristics of a Bond antagonist are embodied by Jackson’s character, Valentine, including a flashy demeanour and a distinctive physical characteristic—a lisp, which Jackson used to make Valentine seem underappreciated.
Image Courtesy: Kingsman: The Secret Service
‘Kingsman’ tracks spy Harry Hart and his protégé Eggsy as they look into Valentine, a computer tycoon who may be plotting terrorist acts. Their exchanges reveal a connection between Valentine and usual Bond villains, especially their mutual appreciation of vintage Bond movies. The movie plays with the Bond villain clichés, especially when Valentine deviates from the typical monologue-before-the-kill scenario and unexpectedly shoots Harry in the head. Another notable scene is Valentine using a fatal signal to provoke mayhem.
Jackson’s portrayal of Valentine demonstrates his range, even though it might make it harder for him to join the Bond franchise without similarities. Given his acting prowess, Jackson might eventually give a Bond villain or character a distinctive twist of his own.
–Farheen Ali