Daniel Craig returns as James Bond
The worst keep secrets in London have been official confirmed.
Details about the new Bond film were announced at a London press conference with the movies cast and director, Sam Mendes.
Daniel Craig will return as the British secret agent in "Skyfall", the 23rd installment of one of the world's longest-running and most successful film franchises.
SOUNDBITE: Daniel Craig, actor, saying (English):
"I wasn't worried about it. I mean if it didn't happen, it didn't happen. I mean, I would have to be as cool as I could be about it because you know, this is a really privileged position to be in and I count myself lucky."
Mendes assured fans that Bond's latest adventure would adhere to the high octane formula that have made the films an enduring genre - noting he is more than just a director, his also a fan.
SOUNDBITE: San Mendes, director, saying (English):
"Of course every young English schoolboy brings up with them, in a sense, it's a part of my life. I remember vividly remember seeing one of the first Bond movies which was 'Live and Let Die' and the impact it had on me. But there was something else, which was, frankly, he's sitting right next to me, I got very excited when i saw my friend Daniel Craig play James Bond in 'Casino Royale'. I thought it opened up all sorts of wonderful possibilities for the character, I love that movie."
Rounding out the cast will be Spanish actor Javier Bardem as the villain.
And Judi Dench returns as Bond's stern boss "M" - who talked about the mystery surrounding the film.
SOUNDBITE: Dame Judi Dench, actress, saying (English):
"Well it's terrible, I said to Sam yesterday, 'how much can you say,' he said, 'not much.' And I mean, that's the whole nature of secrecy isn't it."
The film is scheduled to hit British theaters next year on October 26 and in the U.S. on November 9.
Alicia Powell, Reuters.
