Michael Fassbender’s latest project, Black Bag, directed by Steven Soderbergh, is captivating audiences and earning accolades from critics across the board. This riveting spy thriller features Fassbender as an intelligence officer for the British Secret Service, a role that may serve as his closest brush with the iconic James Bond character. Interestingly, Fassbender auditioned for Bond two decades ago but was ultimately overlooked by Eon Productions. In Black Bag, he brings to life the enigmatic NCSC official, George Woodhouse, a character that allows Fassbender to showcase his talent for portraying compelling spies.
Teaming up with Cate Blanchett, Fassbender embodies the suave demeanor of Woodhouse, subtly hinting at deeper mysteries behind his character’s stoic exterior. Following the tradition of classic Bond actors, he seamlessly transitions from tailored suits to stylish polar necks while effortlessly commanding any room with a calm presence. Just like any top-tier secret agent, Woodhouse navigates a delicate balance between his professional duties and personal entanglements, no matter how daunting the stakes become.
Exploring the Intricacies of Black Bag
Fassbender’s Role as George Woodhouse
Image via Focus Features
Fassbender’s adaptability shines through in his portrayal of British spies, evidenced by his earlier role as MI6 agent Paul in Soderbergh’s 2011 film Haywire. However, Black Bag marks the first time Fassbender’s character takes center stage in a narrative focusing on the British intelligence community. In this new film, Woodhouse embarks on a mission to uncover a leak within his agency, receiving orders reminiscent of those within a classic Bond storyline.
The narrative of Black Bag entwines elements of mystery along with relationship drama, creating a richly layered plot. Ultimately, George Woodhouse is intent on safeguarding the interests of the British state through meticulous surveillance, employing a range of strategies, regardless of the personal toll it may entail.
The film’s conclusion hints at the lengths both Woodhouse and his wife, Kathryn St. Jean, go to fulfill their duties while also striving to protect one another. With their own licenses to kill, they make it clear that they are willing to do whatever it takes to navigate their perilous lives.
A Rare Opportunity: Fassbender’s Bond Audition
The Unlikely Choices in His Audition
In a surprising twist, Michael Fassbender came close to becoming 007 in 2005. Recently, during an interview on Josh Horowitz’s podcast Happy Sad Confused, Fassbender shared that he was encouraged by Eon Productions’ Barbara Broccoli to audition for the iconic character. With a dose of humor, he expressed doubt that he was ever a serious contender for the role.
In a peculiar turn during his audition, Fassbender highlighted Daniel Craig as the ideal choice for Bond. His unexpected act of promoting his competition apparently resonated with Eon’s producers, leading to Craig’s casting in five films commencing with Casino Royale.
“I don’t know why I was promoting him,” Fassbender remarked, reflecting upon the nerves that likely influenced his choices, especially for what would have been a monumental role for him. Most agree, including Fassbender himself, that Daniel Craig has cemented his place as one of the greatest actors to portray James Bond, leaving the next Bond actor with immense pressure to follow in his footsteps.
The Compelling Spy Fassbender Would Have Portrayed
A Different Interpretation of Bond
While Craig introduced a more nuanced and human side to Bond, Fassbender’s interpretation may have ventured even deeper into complexity. His portrayal of George Woodhouse in Black Bag underscores his capacity to embody a character rich in charm and sophistication, traits quintessential to the Bond character. However, Fassbender’s version of Bond might have leaned more towards reserve and ambiguity, inviting audiences to ponder his inner thoughts.
Fassbender’s potential Bond would align more closely with the enigmatic presence depicted in Ian Fleming’s novels—characterized by a sense of restraint, far removed from the flamboyant personas popularized by the film franchise. While Craig’s incarnation aimed to align Bond with his literary roots, Fassbender’s Bond would evoke an even greater sense of mystery and moral complexity, drawing from the intricate calculations that defined Fleming’s legendary spy.
The Age Factor: Is Fassbender Too Old for Bond?
Reflecting on Casting Choices for the Future
Unfortunately, after missing out on the role two decades ago, Fassbender’s prospects for becoming the next 007 have likely diminished. Now 47 years old, he fits a demographic that seems beyond the ideal candidate range for the franchise. While it is noteworthy that Roger Moore was only a year younger than Fassbender when he debuted in Moonraker, the current producers at Amazon-MGM are likely seeking a successor who is poised for a prolonged commitment to the role, akin to Craig’s tenure.
Considering this, Fassbender may find himself in his sixties by the time a new Bond actor transitions out, potentially exceeding the age of any previous Bond actor. He may instead relish his role as a male lead in one of the best cinematic experiences that evokes the spirit of a Bond film without the direct association.
Steven Soderbergh’s Black Bag is a testament to gripping espionage storytelling. While it may not feature MI6 or its most famous agent, it encapsulates the essence of a classic Bond film under a different guise. Fassbender’s skillful depiction of George Woodhouse, a cunning and resourceful surveillance expert, serves as a pivotal element of the film’s success. Although he may not don the iconic Bond character mantle, he undoubtedly delivers a remarkable performance as Woodhouse.