Revisiting a 12-Year-Old Tom Hardy Film That Challenges His James Bond Suitability

While Tom Hardy may seem like the perfect choice for the James Bond franchise, a forgotten flop from his past shows that this isn't always the case. On paper, Hardy seems like an ideal fit for the role of James Bond. The charming British actor has excelled in a variety of dramatic roles and has proven himself as an action star, as evidenced by the success of his blockbuster franchises. For example, his film Venom made $856 million and its 2021 sequel earned over $500 million despite the pandemic, while Mad Max: Fury Road received critical acclaim.

However, there are reasons why Hardy has not been cast as the lead in the upcoming Bond 26. Firstly, he is already a well-known household name and has been an A-list star for more than a decade. Producers may prefer to give opportunities to lesser-known actors. Additionally, Hardy has a packed schedule with projects like Havoc and Venom 3, which could affect his availability. But the main reason Hardy hasn't landed the role is that he previously played a sophisticated super-spy in a role that didn't quite suit him.

This Means War Undermined Hardy's Bond Credentials

It was a rare box office dud for Hardy

This Means War still featuring Tom Hardy and Chris Pine - It was a rare box office dud for Hardy - This Means War Undermined Hardy's Bond Credentials

In 2012, Hardy appeared as a CIA spy alongside Chris Pine in the movie This Means War. Unfortunately, the film was a box office flop, only making $156 million on a $65 million budget. Directed by McG, the rom-com received harsh reviews, impacting the careers of those involved. The story follows two spies who discover they are dating the same woman, played by Reese Witherspoon. Despite the movie's failure, Hardy's potential as a 007 agent stands out, making his casting in the film quite significant.

Tom Hardy's This Means War Character Proves He Was Never Right For Bond

Hardy’s character Tuck is clearly intended to be This Means War’s likable heart, while Pine’s FDR is a swaggering charmer. However, Hardy lacks the wry charisma needed for this 007-alike character, and his quips fall flat throughout This Means War. Although Pine doesn’t fare any better, Hardy's inability to make the character work is indicative of the struggles Hardy could face playing Bond. While the actor excels in edgier roles, as evidenced by everything from Bronson to Warrior to Legend, Hardy couldn’t capture the campy charisma needed for a super-spy like Bond. Thus, This Means War proved he wouldn’t fit the part.

Hardy's just not quite the right fit for 007

Tom Hardy and Reese Witherspoon in This Means War - Hardy's just not quite the right fit for 007 - Tom Hardy's This Means War Character Proves He Was Never Right For Bond

Hardy's credibility in the spy genre took a hit with This Means War, showing that even his stellar performance couldn't save a flawed movie. Although Hardy's performance was on par with his co-stars, the timing of This Means War right after the success of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, followed by Hardy's absence in spy movies, speaks volumes. The next actor chosen to play James Bond in Bond 26 should focus on bringing out 007's more lighthearted side after the darker Daniel Craig era. Unfortunately, This Means War demonstrated that Hardy may not be the best fit for Bond's more fun-loving persona.

Editor's P/S:

The article provides a compelling argument against Tom Hardy's suitability for the role of James Bond, citing his performance in "This Means War" as evidence. The film's box office failure and critical panning raise concerns about Hardy's ability to portray the iconic spy with the necessary charisma and humor. While Hardy has proven his acting prowess in other roles, the article suggests that his lack of a lighter touch may hinder his chances of becoming the next 007.

Furthermore, the article highlights Hardy's packed schedule and his age as potential obstacles to his casting. With the Bond franchise seeking a younger and more available actor, Hardy's involvement in multiple projects and his status as an A-list star may make him less appealing to producers. The article concludes that Hardy's performance in "This Means War" and his overall fit for the role of Bond make him an unlikely choice for the coveted role.