Time to Retire Bond's Aston Martin DB5?

[@Fcozer]

The fact that DB5 appears in 8 movies, but 4 of those in the Craig era (that is, in the last 15 years) seems to explain the feeling that some might have that the car has been overused recently…

[@mirekg5704]

But still it is a really beautiful 007 car.

[@samhodgson2262]

Retire? No. Rest? Yes. Or at least, have Bond in an updated Aston Martin, with the DB5 making cameos every-so-often, much like what SPECTRE did.

[@DM-kv9kj]

Exactly. It was absolutely fine for over 40 years, just being occasionally brought back as Bond's personal vintage car (not a big gadget-laden affair...). Sadly, like a lot of things in Bond, the Craig movies absolutely ruined it. The Craig era have massively obsessed over a number of tropes to the point of ruining them, frankly. He can't just order a martini, or make one amusing joke about it - every single one of his movies they had to constantly keep looking into the camera and winking over and over saying, "Hey, remember Bond likes martinis shaken not stirred? Eh? Get it?? You know, shaken not stirred?? GET IT???" As if they were somehow being new, different and fresh... literally the opposite. The Craig movies just trampled everything, then peed all over the character and franchise and then set fire to it in No Time to Die.

[@jhjhjhjhjhjhify]

I like how it's used in the later films. It's a bit like Bond's Bentley from the books - a classic vehicle he happens to own that's been rebuilt/fitted with gadgets to the point where it's virtually a replica of the car. I don't mind it being used as his personal vehicle in that sense. That said perhaps it could just make smaller cameos for a bit. Only so many times the thing can get destroyed and then rebuilt.

[@4879daniel]

The weird thing is he always has a different DB5. Casino Royale is not the Skyfall one unless you believe Q branch moved the steering wheel and added gadgets in 2006. The the Skyfall one was blown to bits so it can't be the one in nttd.

[@gentatardiontoro6830]

The one in skyfall is the same car in nttd, it was rebuilt during spectre by Q

[@lucasqueen6059]

Someone like Bond, who owns multiple Tom Ford suits, and not 1 but 2 classic Aston Martin's, I absolutely believe he had the Royale DB5 shipped to London and retrofitted with gadgets, manual transmission, and a right hand steering wheel.

[@felixleiter5092]

Damn,, you read the books... cheers mate. I have read the English books myself. (The American novels leave out quite a lot) good on you!!!

[@okradiohead7430]

@@felixleiter5092 You just blew my mind. A genuine Felix Lighter.

[@petesmith4498]

from Bond 26. "Now pay attention 007. Here's your new folding bicycle and bus pass."

[@tripi7906]

LOL

[@christianwise637]

I think the problem is less it being overused, and more how it gets used on a film to film basis. For example in Skyfall, yes it is there for nostalgia purposes, but it also serves a role in the narrative for both a plot and theme perspective. A recurring motif throughout the Craig era, and one that I particularly love, is seeing all the things that Bond treasures being taken away from him: his boss, his friends, his closest lover. With that in mind, seeing the DB5 get destroyed was a continuation of that motif, and also a reflection of the film's theme of facing the past and ultimately letting it go before moving into the future. It's a really impactful and poignant idea, and it would've been a great way to put away the DB5, at least for the rest of this particular era. Unfortunately, Spectre then messes things up by having Q rebuild the DB5. I've always found Spectre to be a highly regressive film compared to its predecessor, and this whole thing is perfectly emblematic of that. After all the losses Bond endured in Skyfall, any chance at seeing the character grow is completely undermined when you see one of the symbols of those losses being repaired, like gluing a child's broken toy back together. I think it's rather telling that after Bond gets it back at the end of the film, he only uses it in the pre-title sequence for No Time to Die (in what is a highly impressive and effective setpiece) and never uses it again after that. In short, I don't think the DB5 is being overused, and I certainly don't think it should be retired (at least not completely), but I do think that if it's going to be used in future, it should be in the service of the story and the themes being conveyed, rather than for cheap fanservice

[@Kacpa2]

It definetly overused in Craig era, its just too frequently seen, it doesnt matter its briefly, there were many other cars to show and go around like Vantage V8 from Living Daylights that appeared only once in NTTD and very briefly tbh. I would like to see them introduce more cars like they did in Pierce Brosnan era and prior, in same style we got Lotus Esprit or BMW cars, just something else than just rehashing same car for 8/9th time like its only thing he might drive. Maybe a Jaguar, maybe some other older sports car from the 90s or early 2000s that didnt appaer yet. There are oddball sports cars like Spyker who wouuld fit the retroesque bill while being modern.

[@TheMI7G]

I think I conclusively agree with everything you say - it's really such an inherent part of the series by this point that I really don't think it will be dropped entirely (nor should it), particularly where marketing is concerned. And I think you hit the nail on the head that the perception of "overuse" comes far more from that marketing than the films themselves. I mean, sure, it's been in 6 of the last 9 (though its overall screentime in those is, as you say, pretty minor) - but those that did also featured two new BMWs, three new Aston Martins, and the return of an old Aston, so it's not like it was exclusively the DB5 show! The main thing that gets me is, when you ask those who call most vociferously for the DB5's retirement what they'd like to see instead, it's almost inevitably "the Lotus" or "the V8" or even one of the BMWs rather than something new - ie, still reprising something for nostalgia, just something different!

[@billa107]

I’m actually more into the idea of newer Aston Martins used for Bond. Going forward I don’t mind seeing it every now and then, but I’d like to see newer models used.

[@vaclav_fejt]

The problem is, that the new Astons have a different image. The DB5 was a grand tourer, and so were its successors, including the Ford-Aston Vanquish and the DB9 (DBS). The Ford Astons were mainly made for the looks, IMO ideal for Bond. But then Aston Martin decided to get away from Ford and get a new image, get into racing. That's why the DB10 and 11 look so aggressive, that's why the name Aston Martin is in endurance racing and even in Formula 1. I think Bond needs to find another car, something a bit sporty, but not too much. Not a Lotus, not a BMW (not with those grilles). Perhaps...a Bentley? A fitting return...

[@billa107]

@@vaclav_fejt I’m actually okay with their new aggressive style looks. They are still elegant-looking and sleek to match him and look like super spy cars.

[@johncastle95]

@@vaclav_fejt i disagree with a statement. The DBS Superleggera has a V12 and also is a Grand Tourer. Is a nice rendition of the old DBS.

[@vaclav_fejt]

@@johncastle95 Oh, I didn't know about this one, that would certainly qualify.

[@FelipeFritschF2]

That Aston Nomi used was cool.

[@sgtfrozty]

Remember how they marketed that DB10 as "the Bond car specifically made for the film" and it looked like it could be Craig's new current modern car for the rest of his tenure, then it lasted for like 15 mins before dumped into the bottom of the Italian Riviera? ...lol

[@TheHufflepuffSaint]

Mostly likely because the DB10 was super ugly and was a huge downgrade from the beautiful DBS and the predecessor Vanquish.

[@sgtfrozty]

...can't argue with that. To this day, I don't like the design. It's too flat to be an Aston. Should've driven the DB11 instead, but if its fate was to still be disposed of in the river, than I won't sacrifice that beauty.

[@TitanSubZero15]

It doesn't help that the DB10 was nothing more than a concept car, an ugly one at that. The new GT and DBS models barely have anything similar to the DB10. It was such a waste in my opinion and should've stuck with one of the production models from Aston Martin.

[@TheSmart-CasualGamer]

The DB10 looks more like a villain's car than one for Bond. It looks like it's constantly angry at the world.

[@DC9848]

DB10 is a beautiful car

[@dotothenn]

"We have had some cut-backs here at MI6, and to put it bluntly 007...your new car is a 2013 Fiat 500. All the usual refinements, except you have to pull up on the window to get it raised, the window motor is going wrong. Any questions 007?"

[@Yngvarfo]

Hey, don't trash talk the iconic car driven by Lupin III!

[@dotothenn]

@@Yngvarfo Nice!!

[@Dmaduruh]

Personally, I liked it when it Bond actors were essentially given their own signature car. With Brosnan and Craig, that's pretty much been done away with. They'll get a car that could've been used in multiple films, but they end up being one offs, or more attention is put on the DB5. I also agree with what another commenter said: What they're doing now is like if Keaton, Bale, and Affleck just reused Adam West's Batmobile instead of getting their own. Or if, for example, Bale had the tumbler, but they still give more attention to the '66 Batmobile.

[@Riutanharju]

Aston Martin even made own model for Craig's 007; DB10 but nobody seems to care 💩 about it.

[@Dmaduruh]

@@Riutanharju That car got absolutely wasted.

[@RRVCrinale]

This puts words to something I wasn't able to put my finger on before. As iconic as the DB5 is, as legendary as it still is, they're getting dangerously close to making it overstay its welcome by way of...trying to stretch its timelessness.

[@MrDylanJones]

What do you mean? Which actor had a signature car?

[@OFFtheCHIZANE]

Brosnan got 2 iconic cars I would say. The 750iL is slightly bland, but is a plausible undercover car and gives rise to that jaw-dropping car park sequence, and the Vanquish is a fine vehicle (adaptive camo notwithstanding) which, to me at least, has become synonymous with Bond in much the same way as the DB5.

[@Tiredcream6472]

6:42 The character that Roger Moore plays in the movie "The Cannonball Run" (which I just finished watching) being named Seymour now forever meant that I can't take the Simpsons character seriously.

[@vanquish5023]

I like the DB5 but man, that V12 Vanquish is **chef's kiss**

[@BenCol]

Bit of an unrelated note maybe, but having just finished a long car journey from the Scottish highlands today, I am left wondering: In Skyfall, what was the car journey from London to Skyfall like? The film cuts quickly from the beginning of their drive to the end, but there’s a whole journey within those cuts lasting almost half a day. What did Bond and M talk about, if anything? What music did they listen to, and who got to pick the radio station? (Does the DB5 radio even work considering it hides the tracking device?) How many service stops did they make, and at which services? Which has a bigger capacity: the DB5’s petrol tank or M’s bladder? What fast-food chain do you think Bond and M would go for? Did Bond have M drive parts of the trip, or did they stop for the night somewhere? Forget all those questions about how Silva planned his escape in advance, these are the real Skyfall questions we need answers for!

[@hunterxsimple3821]

This is actually pretty fascinating...

[@nicktalksbond]

I’d love that as a dvd extra. Bond and M on Tour 😅

[@WH250398]

Considering the McDonald's logo is a giant M, I bet it's that.

[@tcaudiobooks737]

I hope they stopped off at Westmoreland services, it's the best one in the country by far!

[@demetrisross17]

Asking the REAL questions now!

[@dominicrusho]

I love the DB5, but they really need to move on and keep the series looking forward. I can picture a “new” James Bond having a DB7 as a personal car he tinkers with at the weekend.

[@TheHufflepuffSaint]

Since the Bond series has stolen the plot twist of Austin Powers, might as well steal the personal vehicle of Johnny English too. Lol.

[@Riutanharju]

I would have loved to see DB7 in GoldenEye instead of DB5 & Z3 since DB7 was quite new model then.

[@randomhuman97]

Love the vanquish.

[@Riutanharju]

@@randomhuman97 Q: We call it "Vanish".

[@johnkennethwiseman682]

I wish i could make you vanish 😂

[@TheGamerThing]

It was nice to see it return in Skyfall, everything after that is just trying to repeat that effect. We are just in a nostalgia obsessed era but a new identity will never be forged for Bond if they keep looking backwards. PLUS: This car is very old and will only get older and older. I know its timeless but lord how old does it have to get before its a relic?

[@tcaudiobooks737]

I went with a friend to a Bond driving experience, and the DB5 was very much the automotive epitome of "never meet your heroes", it was rubbish, even in 1964 there were far superior cars. My friend who drove us there was delighted to get back into his Seat Ibiza that he brought us in.

[@i_am_tomatosoup]

At a certain point driving an old car becomes more conspicuous than a contemporary super car. Bond is never really that subtle, but the idea of a superspy showing up to his mission in an antique doesn't make much sense.

[@RJSRdg]

That assumes we want a new identity for Bond....

[@vaclav_fejt]

1964 car? try a 1931 pistol. They've repaced the PPK in 1997 with a modern (but not compact) P99, only for the PPK to return in 2008. PPS M2, where you at?

[@gustavskarlismikelsons4295]

@@vaclav_fejt I think Bond’s choice of pistol is the same reason for the cars, there is this association of old = classy, and both the DB-5 and PPK have a slick, classy design. Although I have a soft spot for the P99 (despite my general dislike of Brosnan Bond), it’s quite forgettable design-wise, while things like the DB-5 and the PPK are instant stand-outs. I do hope someone will strike design gold and create something more in line with the 21st century (the new Aston-Martin’s certainly did) these relics of the past do fit Bond’s characterization of being out of touch or at least too flashy for his own good.

[@ClassicRockLivesOn]

My entire opinion about No Time to Die would have been changed if at the end, the camera panned down to Malthilde's lap and showed her holding her stuffed animal- cue Bond theme.

[@Superior_Productions]

They shouldve hired you to rewrite the ending cause that is absolutely perfect

[@MrFacePeck]

To suggest he survived?

[@MrFacePeck]

@Μαία that was good indeed, but House actually survived the explosion though.

[@strikerbowls791]

what a childish, un-bondian ending

[@MarkSlavin]

@@MrFacePeck that would have worked for me.

[@fritzkaraldo8452]

Beeing a old car itself, the V8 Vantage felt so fresh in NTTD. My personal favourite is the DBS from OHMSS. Altime non Bond realted Aston is the DB4 Zagato. What a beautiful car.

[@sandersson2813]

Totally agree. Love the DBS and Zagato.

[@cgotterba]

The problem with the DB5 is that it's the only thing that dates the franchise. Using it too heavily is like admitting that the series has to rely on the icons of the past and can't stand on its own right now (which I don't think is true). Bond isn't stuck in the 60s, but the car is an anchor for those who thinks the franchise is. I'm a car guy, and a classic car guy. I love seeing the DB5. Even if it weren't included in new movies it is still a Bond icon, so I love its use in ads (that picture made me want to go out and buy a bottle of Bollinger) and toys. But I think both the film series and Aston Martin would be better served using the automaker's contemporary models (we're all going to lust after the DB5 anyway, but it's probably good for AM's image if the DB11 gets some exposure too).

[@jbain4750]

Well it's not the only thing that dates the franchise. Not a ton of people really wear suits or tuxedos anymore, casinos might as well be a retirement home, and the only people who order martinis at bars are hipsters trying to be ironic. I don't actually think there's anything especially dated about the Aston Martin, plenty of people own classic cars.

[@jhammons2310]

@@jbain4750 don’t forget the Walther PPK that fans freak out if ever gets replaced

[@jbain4750]

@@jhammons2310 Well he uses a p99 in a lot of the Brosnan movies, plus CR.

[@theyellowlightsaber3193]

I agree, I dont mind the DB5 but with every decade that passes it's only going to look more and more dated, it was suitable in the 60s cos that's when it was new but it doesnt fit if they want Bond to be all sleek and new in the 2020s, they need to move on especially when Bond has a floating time line, he'd have no attachment to a 60s model now that he's presumably going to be part of generation Y in the future. He'd be more attached to a 90s model now.

[@theyellowlightsaber3193]

@@jhammons2310 I dont think people are as bothered about the weapon as much as the car cos only gun nuts are taking any notice. The average person wouldnt know the difference between one hand gun and another, I certainly dont.

[@Jnensrevenge]

The DB5 action in No Time To Die was cool as hell but I too want the car to take a rest. It's like if Batman was still driving the OG Batmobile in the new movies.

[@nekusakura6748]

The Batmobile from Batman: The Brave and the Bold is criminally underrated in my book. I'd like to see another like that one.

[@OFFtheCHIZANE]

They used to mix up the car-based action a bit more creatively. TSWLM gave us a spectacular chase in the Esprit, so in FYEO they took it away (explosively) and put Bond in a 2CV instead. Dalton has a tricked out Aston in TLD, but then makes do with a fuel tanker in LTK. Brosnan gets a tank in Goldeneye, and then goes to an armoured 750iL in TND, with tonnes of gadgets, but only a multi-storey car park in which to manoeuvre. And then a jet boat. Craig has had DBS, DBS, DB5, DB10, DB5, and while I enjoy his movies a lot, it seems this is a symptom of the fact that the producers now spend more time asking whether the Bond formula is correct than having fun within the formula.

[@wattsiswhat]

It's funny ya brought this up, because I'm currently watching all Bond films in order (Golden Eye next) and have noticed that no, the car does not show up often and Bond is normally in other vehicles.

[@donovaneddiealanhodges1499]

This is such an extremely fantastic memorabilia of this world saving vehicle that Bond had for so long. I want this car to be with the museum of iconic vehicles if there is ever one in America.

[@05Rudey]

I used to be in the school that if it didn't have the DB5, then it isn't a Bond film, but after some reflection, as time goes on and the car is getting older, I'd settle for a newer Aston Martin or when it came to Roger Moore, the Lotus. James Bond has several core identities. The Tuxed poker playing, rich playboy, the sharp suited travelling businessman (International Edit: Universal Exports) and the Pressed & Dressed Royal Navy Officer. I still believe the DB5 is still the perfect car for when he is under cover as the rich playboy. It's class, rare and the perfect car.

[@ARCtrooperblueleader]

Well said.

[@JS-oi5jt]

Really??? so you thought that all but 8 movies in the franchise weren't Bond movies? You became a Bond fan when Casino Royale came out didnt you.

[@05Rudey]

@@JS-oi5jt Of course they were Bond movies, I just prefer the films that had the DB5 like Goldfinger, Skyfall, GoldenEye & Casino Royale (They are pretty much my top 4 Bond films) As for your last part of your comment, No. In fact I hated Casino Royale when it first came out, it grew on me and became one of my favourites after about 10 years of its release. I grew up with Roger Moore as Bond, he was cheesy, funny and the Bond film were fun. The Craig era was vastly different, darker with little to no fun. I became a diehard fan with GoldenEye (ie started to collect the DVD's, music and follow some of the clothing styles), I have enjoyed Bond films all my life, the first probably being Moonraker.

[@ryano7220]

Since Goldfinger, it was used needlessly and for the sake of it. But there were two big exceptions: Skyfall and NTTD.

[@waywardlaser]

I find the concept of a Bond fan who thinks it’s overused to be almost unbelievable. That’s like a Godzilla fan saying he should retire breathing fire.

[@pilotstyle123]

I have to disagree, for me bond does not have a fix car as I prefer the lotus or the v8 I even like the Brosnan bmw . So bringing out the db5 in every movie feels like being stuck on one version of bond

[@michaelstewart4445]

I agree. Don't dis the DB-5.

[@shannonbayley3684]

@@pilotstyle123 you'd be the only one that prefers the BMW 😖 the lotus esprit yeah, it's sleek and exotic.

[@JohnSmith-zq9mo]

Nah, he should drive cool vehicles, but no need to drive a specific model for me. Cars get outdated, we have to accept that.

[@randomhuman97]

I love the vanquish

[@hillstart8149]

I undoubtedly agree with this. The DB5 has been completely overused in recent years. They need to bring in newer cars or at least something different so we can distinguish between Bond eras and look back with nostalgia in the future. I certainly find this to be the case with the BMWs of the Brosnan era (which are now themselves iconic Bond cars).

[@negnatrepsej2903]

I like how they used Aston Martin in Quantum of Solace and Casino Royale -just plain and simple Aston Martins with no extra fuzz, more the style of Daniel Craigs portrait of the JB character

[@billkoenig1552]

The notion of a DB5 in the 21st century is, well, a bit silly. Early this month, I participated in an online trivia event where I was one of the questioners. Another questioner once owned the DB5 that George Lazenby drove in The Return of The Man From UNCLE. He said the car (less than 20 years old at the time) constantly broke down and, on one occasion, the transmission dropped out. The DB5s in No Time to Die are replicas. They have carbon-fiber bodies, BMW engines and new suspension parts. Many fans get upset when I call them replicas. But Daniel Craig gave it all away when he talked to Prince Charles with cameras rolling and microphones on.

[@vikingofvegas]

I didn't know this was a thing... I for one love the DB5. Long may it continue to grace the screen in future Bond adventures

[@colinrumford2265]

I personally felt that when it was destroyed in Skyfall that was the natural end of it.

[@Riutanharju]

Roger Moore didn't drive any Aston Martin during his 007 tenure but nobody says that he wasn't a real James Bond because he had no DB5.

[@TheHufflepuffSaint]

Roger didn't drive an Aston Martin as the studio didn't want folks to get him confused from his character in The Saint who did drive an Aston Martin. So they pretty much gave him the Lotus as his signature vehicle.

[@05Rudey]

I loved the Lotus just as much as the DB5, maybe more as a kid.

[@LukeHarpercouk]

The problem for me as much as I love the car, let it breathe and bring in some alternatives I love seeing different ones in different films just like how he wears different clothes or uses different gadgets.

[@isotoptic-waist2420]

Never it is one of the most beautiful cars ever built and is a legendary staple of the bond films

[@Slider6294]

In a word, yes. Nostalgia is a helluva drug but it loses its high when it’s overused.

[@vaclav_fejt]

Cars are not cocktails, clothes, weapons, or catchphrases. The DB5 used to be a luxury grand tourer, now it's an insanely expensive classic car with outdated driveability. It very much goes against the suspension of disbelief. Bond always had contemporary clothes and contemporary music. Speaking of contemporary: GET RID OF THE PPK! It was revolutionary in its time - in 1931! Sure it looks good, but it's so hopelessly old-fashioned...the main problem is the ergonomy (hammer bite), so why would anyone pick it today, besides the classic image? I propose Walther PPS M2, it's the nicest looking of all subcompacts on the market, and it's in 9mm Luger, significantly more powerful. Or, if you need for that classic look, get the SIG Sauer P230. It's as big as the full-size Walther PP (bad), but it retains all of PP/PPK coolness while being more modern.

[@ShadowCabbage1210]

I agree with your sentiments on the DB5 completely. It’s iconic and part of the formula as much as martinis and tuxedos. For me the DB5 is such a classic old-timey car that I find that it fits the upscale British feel of the Bond character, it’s the same reason why he likes a certain type of Bollinger or has to always look stylish, the car is a part of that identity.

[@ShadowCabbage1210]

@@grantmalone whilst I agree that it shouldn’t be the only classic Bond car used and that’s why I was delighted to see the Aston from the Living Daylights in NTTD it’s just so synonymous with the franchise at this point that I personally don’t mind it appearing every now and again.

[@kryptych]

I've quite enjoyed seeing the DB-5. It's not my favorite of Bond's vehicles, but it's got that iconic status, and as you've pointed out, was not overused in the films (though perhaps in the marketing... I can understand from that perspective). However, I always loved when he'd drive a different model of Aston Martin. The DBS Vantage in OHMSS, the V8 Volante convertible/non-Volante V8 Saloon hard-top in The Living Daylights, the V12 Vanquish in Die Another Day, the DBS V12 in Casino Royale... I just always enjoyed the notion that MI6 must've had some kind of contract with Aston Martin to provide the latest model for their agents (Bond in particular) and that as the series would go on, he'd get a new model. Sure, that's just product placement, but it's a fun idea that I wish had been more consistent rather than just falling back on the iconic DB5. But oh well...

[@tompor561]

SPOILER AHEAD: I really liked that the Aston Martin v8 was brought back in No Time to Die. It even survived the movie :D

[@grahamdavidson639]

I think you've missed the mark here. Yes, it's not been over used in the Bond series overall BUT it's has been in recent movies, you said it yourself, it's been in 4 out of 5 of the Daniel Craig movie's. I personally used to always like seeing Bond's new ride and what new gadgets it has.

[@faisalahmed1982]

They really could've paid homage to the 2006 - 2008 Aston Martin DBS in No Time To Die instead of The DB5....

[@bobgoran]

It is not the DB5 itself that is a problem. It is more the idea that you can do a "generic action movie" then throw in the DB5 to make it Bond-ish. It has been over-used during the Craig era.

[@duccly5050]

I think it would be a good time to take a break from the DB5. I hope the future movies in general create some new memorable Bond vehicles and moments, rather than the constant references to the old movies.

[@tcaudiobooks737]

The DB5 should be reduced to Michael G Wilson style cameos.

[@ryancouchman-sawyer2355]

Whilst I love the DB5 (and especially how it was used in NTTD) I do feel like its been overused recently. 4 out of 5 of Craigs films featured the car and I'd much prefer it if it was used for special occasions (like how it was used in Skyfall for the 50th Anniversary). I have to admit the use of the V8 from the Living Daylights in NTTD felt a lot more fresh instead of the DB5 for the few scenes it was in. But for the next Bond, I want it to feel like the next actor has his own car (something like the DB10 could have been - an update of the classic) or for there to be more unique twists on the car chase (like GoldeneEye's tank chase)

[@theyellowlightsaber3193]

Yeh the Volante in Daylights was a cool model, its nice they brought it back in NTTD for Craig's last hurrah, it makes more sense to bring that model back than the increasingly dated DB5.

[@MDVBIGDADDYQ007]

Your take on the use in Skyfall was Spot On Oldboy!!!!

[@gameragodzilla]

Honestly, I think it's more appropriate for Bond to finally retire the Walther PPK. As iconic as that gun is, there are better choices for secret agents these days. I really liked Bond upgrading to the Walther P99, a very high tech and modern pistol, back in Tomorrow Never Dies, and if Bond needs a small, easily concealable pistol, he should use the Walther PPS instead. Of course, I do think Bond should still use a Walther. That brand is as iconic to him as Aston Martin is for cars.

[@WH250398]

Nah. The PPK is one of the most beautiful pistols ever made.

[@gameragodzilla]

@@WH250398 It's beautiful, but very, very dated. A Walther PPS also looks slick and high tech while also being a very small, concealable pistol for a superspy like James Bond.

[@charliemersonwrightashby]

The ghost of the fella who wrote to Ian Fleming will haunt you for suggesting such a change!

[@tcaudiobooks737]

He cheated on Walther twice in NTTD with a Sig Sauer and a trusty old Browning HiPower. Seconded on the PPS.

[@gameragodzilla]

@@charliemersonwrightashby Hey, if Boothroyd was alive today, I think he'd agree with me. lol He comes off as a fella who loved all sorts of cool guns. It was cool seeing Roger Moore with a .44 Magnum in Live and Let Die. I know Boothroyd really liked that cartridge.

[@ryanbarton6417]

Today was the 2nd screening of the movie for me, the people in front of me cheered when they saw the car. I think it would be nice to see another car for the next Bond, like Roger and his lotus'.

[@robertwild9447]

The Aston Martin is Bond's Batmobile. It's iconic and forever synonymous with the character, but I think what audiences expect and are used to is Bond having a car with gadgets in general, especially when you look at the Moore and Dalton era and how much variety in Bond cars we saw. Almost every live action iteration of Batman has a distinct version of the batmobile, they don't use the same model over and over again. I think the same can be said for the Bond cars. I like the Bond car formula, I just don't think he NEEDS to have the Aston Martin specifically in the movies anymore. I absolutely loved the way the Aston Martin was used in No Time to Die, it's easily my favorite action sequence featuring the car. But I also think it's time to take a break from it. I'm sure it'll appear as an easter egg in a museum or something like that in a future movie. I don't think it's been overused or should never be seen again, but I do think we need a break from it and go back to introducing new cars in new Bond films.

[@Kacpa2]

Except we got various interations of of batmobile....i woild rather round it up to Bond car being his batmobile, not DB5. With this logic there should be no tumbler or different batmobiles for any film after 1989 Batman

[@robertwild9447]

@@Kacpa2 That's what I was trying to say, lol.

[@Kacpa2]

@@robertwild9447 Oh sorry my bad didnt read further down you comment. Apologies

[@robertwild9447]

@@Kacpa2 Lol, no problem. I think what I meant to say was that the Aston Martin DB5 was Bond's first Batmobile equivalent, and was instantly iconic. In the first couple films he just drove regular cars. Which is actually another interesting comparison to Batman, since initially he was shown driving just a regular car before it evolved into the Batmobile in the comics.

[@Benji568]

I'd be happy with the DB5, Lotus Esprit, Vanquish, DBS and so on just being in the background of Q branch in future Bond movies as scenery dressing if you will. The Q boat has just been auctioned off to a collector sadly 😔

[@CRITTERBUSTERS]

I don’t mind much, but as you stated there has been many other cars since the DB5 and Craig has had it appear in all 5 of his films and he’s been bond for 15 years, couple that with marketing it can make it seem like the car has lost some of its mystique. I’m actually more excited to see the Aston Martin V8 from The Living Daylights than the DB5 at this point. In fact it’s been over 30 years since that car appeared in a bond film!

[@stg85]

I always thought they missed a trick in "Skyfall" by not having the ejector seat come out after the car had been destroyed and take out the helicopter.

[@MichaelPremsrirat]

Genius!

[@charliemersonwrightashby]

I always felt like for Craig’s Bond, it was not only a visual reminder for fans - but also a connection to CR for Bond. He won the car during that initial investigation, so maybe it ties to his lingering memories of Vesper? At least, that was my interpretation 😄

[@TheEternalOuroboros]

Good point!

[@4879daniel]

But the Skyfall car isn't the one from casino royale unless you think in 2006 MI6 would move the steering wheel on a classic and fill it with gadgets rather than use something modern.

[@jamesatkinsonja]

Spot on. [as an aside I do find it odd that some were claiming the Craig films were a prequel to Dr No when the origin of the DB5 doesn't match the classic series whatsoever!]

[@pennysmith6727]

Finally I can start cooking, watching Calvin 😁 I watched goldfinger as a kid and the view of the car gives me a warm, fuzzy childhood feeling. I can't get enough of it, but it had hurt so much to watch it get destroyed in skyfall as in nttd. 😭 I hope the new Bond will have a car park at home, where we get a glimpse of it, with all his former cars.

[@JohnDoe-tm9wz]

It was really harsh when Silva destroyed the DB5 in Skyfall

[@tcaudiobooks737]

A major reason so many people were delighted to see the V8 Vantage was because of DB5 fatigue. Which was never really a great car anyway (the DB5 racing around Matera is actually an E46 BMW M3 underneath). So I think it's time to say soooo long for now to the DB5.

[@phazonlord0098]

Yeh, I remember how shattered I was when Top Gear reviewed a mint DB5 and said it was a dreadful car to drive with terrible breaks and awful handling like pretty much any car from the 60's. There's a reason why people only have an interest on driving those cars if they have been thoroughly modified with moderns standards like those Singer 911s, other than that they just sit on a collector's garage.

[@phazonlord0098]

I guess cars that are still enjoyable to drive nowadays only started appearing on the mid 70's.

[@DarkKnightwing75]

Also, one noticeable detail for Casino Royale, the DB5 he wins which possibly explains how he owns one in the Craig films is actually left hand drive whereas from Skyfall to No Time To Die it’s right hand drive, perhaps it’s converted by Q-Branch to RHD as well as the installation of all the gadgets

[@sethhart478]

I love the DB5 a lot but I really want them to keep it as his personal car and keep the Q cars with the gadgets.

[@williamwalker5244]

That's how it should be I think. Maybe one or two shots of bond pulling up at MI6 in it ( ala tomorrow never dies ) then he is equipped with a Q car for the films major car action.

[@lloydkline1518]

James bonds should have more than one 🚗 car anyway

[@evobirkz8]

Agree, what would he drive in say 50years? Still the db5? No he should be given a current model that reflects our time, not a relic from the past just because its iconic, as a personal car thats alright but out on a mission it should always be a contemporary car.

[@adotgif]

Can't wait to watch this. In meantime, did the title sequence of NTTD imply the story beat that post-Matera Craig Bond dumped his DB5 into a body of water somewhere ?

[@nicktalksbond]

Fukunaga has commented in an interview the Matera sequence originally ended with the DB5 in the sea. Whilst that doesnt happen in NTTD, thats probably where the idea came from.

[@tcaudiobooks737]

I reckon the car held alot of bad memories for him (Ms death/Madeline's betrayal), so he sold it off and moved on to the V8 Vantage.

[@abidmohammad5953]

@@nicktalksbond interestingly the title sequence shows the db5 thrown in water so it did kind of happen

[@sortehuse]

They need to bring back the 2CV!

[@joehahn9801]

I’d love to see the next Bond back in a Bentley, but I think that at this point the partnership with Aston Martin is too lucrative for that to happen.

[@tcaudiobooks737]

I was disappointed they never used a DB11, unlike many Astons, that one is actually a proper drivers car.

[@macsmith2013]

Mobern Bentleys look (and probably drive) like tanks on wheels, not something I'd assiciate with something useful to 007, who imho needs a nimble sports car, not a tank.

[@kennydesrochers]

As nice as seeing Bond drive a Bentley would be, since it's been owned by Volkwagen since 1998, I doubt that the producers would go for it. Then again Austin is now owned by Ford so, maybe it could happen? ... Probably the actual patrnership stay the course however.

[@porsche911sbs]

@@macsmith2013 yep Astons are just a lot sexier than Bentleys

[@Elijah-cy9do]

@@kennydesrochers Ford sold Aston 13 years ago, and Astons are much more British than Bentleys as they are more bespoke while most Bentleys use VW group platforms, engines and tech

[@lukasgehrer680]

It's not overused in the Bond films. It's overused in the Craig film...

[@shaunwren]

Before the video starts I said in my head yes because the greatest Bond Roger Moore never needed it

[@callumrobinson4137]

I personally prefer the v8 vantage of the dolton era. Great video as always Sir Calvin Dyson

[@Madmanmarque]

Had a closeup view of one of the restored Bond DB5's. Still takes me back when I was 7 years old.

[@CDubya.82]

So basically for the theory to be true, Craigs films killed any interest in that car as a fan due to its overuse for nostalgia purposes.

[@Keeneye47_Wolfkeen]

I think it's just one of those things where while yes, I get why people would be tired of the DB5. The car is basically a part of 007. It'd be like removing the 1911 from a lot of old and modern war films. That is a VERY overused pistol in both modern and WW1/2 media, but it is there for a reason. It's a relic of the past, an icon of what it represents, a representation of the old ways still having a place in the modern world. Now this is not me saying that you can't have a 007 film without the DB5, same way you can't have a war film without the 1911. It's just removing either from what they represent can come off as "change for the sake of it" and that is an issue many forms of media even now suffer from. Changing something, just because they want to change it. If they want to retire or even just have the DB5 be more of a casual part of the next Bond, it has to be done in a way that just doesn't come off as, "Alright no more DB5, Bond drives a Ford now!" (I know that sounds incredibly stupid, but I'm just saying that as an example to my point) We've seen plenty of reboots and such do something to this effect and get slammed for it.

[@rickastley2308]

Honestly I don't like how it's used in the Skyfall. It came from nowhere with all this Connery's gadgets (after realistic CR and QoS) and no backstory (obviously it's not Dimitrios' LHD car). It's just pure fan-service over the story.

[@LordPiddlington1912]

The DB5 is synonymous with 007, you can't just discard it entirely. I like idea of Bond having the DB5 as his personal classic car (maybe it could be part of his inheritance of the Bond estate in the post-Daniel Craig reboot). I think that the DB5 has been a little overused recently, but a good model going forward would be the DB5 making a cameo appearance per film (if that) and the Q-Branch issued car featuring prominently, particularly for car chases etc.

[@Bale4Bond]

The car has sadly been overexposed in the last films. Keep it in the garage for around 10 films..(which they won't do, of course..)

[@Louisejames23]

Let’s be honest it’s a bit of a Trigger’s broom now anyway, with its 17 new bodies and 14 new engines etc. Personally I love it and hope they can shoehorn it in somewhere in future films, even in a cameo role.

[@jgibb903]

I think the issue is mainly in the Craig era, we've really lost the novelty of having a NEW gadget-laden Aston in the recent films. Even the DB10 ended up a big tease...

[@Touchofbond]

Appreciate you making this! I certainly don’t think it’s overused, it’s the marketing and hype around the movies as you say. It’s no different to other parts of the ‘Bond Formula’.

[@_Braised]

Been saying they should have retired the damn thing since 2006. They've been using it as a crutch since Casino Royale, with that obnoxious music stab that expects us to swoon because 'look! Familiar Thing!'. I'll give it a pass in Skyfall for finally using it's machine guns effectively for the first time and at least LOOKING like it might be finally retired. But no, back again in the next film. At this point it's nothing more than a lack of imagination in bringing out something new instead.

[@deaconwilson1894]

i seen this beautiful car in person a couple of years ago and it is gorgeous is was mad that i could not take it home. it is a staple of the seris and i think it always should be

[@NeverSaySandwich1]

I'd prefer if the Aston Martin V8 Vantage got more spotlight. Loved that it was in NTTD quite a bit, it's my favorite Bond car.

[@italobrettmusic]

I've been a Bond fan since I was 5 (22 now) and I still get super excited whenever I see the DB5, so I hope they keep using it!

[@leedaley3404]

I didn't like how it regularly showed up in the Brosnan films and throughout the Craig era. The more you see something, the less special it becomes.

[@jpalexander292]

I love Daniel Craig as bond but I must admit with his the makers are nugging us saying hey he remind you of Connery…ha. Meaning Moore, Dalton and Brosnon got to create the town Bonds while Craig’s is more a throwback to Connery. I mean that’s fine but the use of this car is just another sign of that.

[@Nightdiver20]

The DB5 is the epitome of British aesthetic and happens to be one of my dream cars. I never tire of seeing it.

[@peterkevintaylor]

Time to bring back the 2CV

[@pavanpatel4150]

The DB5 has lost all impact for me. Seeing it in a Bond film is now an expectation and not a treat anymore. They really should have just stopped using it after it got destroyed in Skyfall. Bond has been associated with other car brands: Lotus, Bentley, and BMW (although I never cared for the BMWs). I'd like to see the next Bond drive a TVR Griffith in the next film.

[@MatadorShifter]

Would love to see Timothy Dalton's Bond's V8 in action again, with the exact same gadgets onboard

[@felixleidig8307]

Absolutely Not ....in no way retire it .... No we need to bring back Classic Bond Elments like Crazy Villains , Henchmen and Villains Lair ... Not getting rid of even more classic stuff

[@gugarainho1694]

On one hand, tbh one of the best DB5 scenes in the entire franchise is in No Time to Die, meaning that they can still come up with great ways to use the car. But, on the other, having appeared in almost all of the Craig movies, I think it should rest a little bit

[@albertstock85]

Who is demanding for the DB5 to be retired? There’s a useful four letter word, and those people are full of it! That car is spectacular and I think it transcends Bond recastings and reboots.

[@martinbond1993]

I'm very split on it. Yes, it's usage in the promo material as it were a main cast member didn't help, and how realistic is it for Bond and/or MI6 to own a car that even without any tricks is worth close to a million pounds these days. But, when I saw that first shot of the DB5 in the teaser trailer I jumped up from my seat. It's só beautiful and só cool that I can't help but love it. HOWEVER, I do have a problem with it being resurrected. It was badly damaged in Goldfinger but fine in Thunderball. Shown and destroyed in Skyfall, but fine yet again in Spectre, and now agáin badly damaged in NTTD. either "kill it off" permanently or use it in the Brosnan way, but don't keep killing it and bringing it back.

[@al007italia]

If you look at the locations of most movies, the lack of appearances by the DB5 makes sense. As does the use of it in 4 of the 5 Craig films. I don't see it as over used. Bond had a DBS in OHMSS. Granted, the biggest number oc cars Bond drove were varous Astin martins, you can't say the DB5 was overused. Nor should it totally disappear in the future.

[@JLRules]

"Most famous car in the world"? Er... the Batmobile? Even in terms of real cars... the DeLorean?

[@BenjaminMRogers]

With The DB5 being supplanted a bit by 'Dalton's Aston' in NTTD, could it be that the latter car will become THE Bond car? This is something I would be rather pleased with.

[@grumpyoldman3458]

I agree that would be cool ... and cheaper for the producers.

[@gumbycat5226]

It just shows what an exceptional Bond movie Goldfinger was. The car, the song, the whole deal.

[@andrewb5429]

Hey Calvin, I know it's 2 days late, but I wanted to wish you a happy belated birthday. I hope you enjoyed your birthday this year, and I can't wait to ask you more questions on your next Martini Q&A live video. I'll be watching it whenever you stream it.

[@ben8447]

DB5 also appears in Diamonds are Forever. You see it in the Widescreen version of the film (I had the VHS) when Q is talking to Bond. It's in the background.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Very interesting to think about. Very nice video. Keep up the good work.

[@Goldeneye1997]

I think it was well used in NTTD. But I do think we need a break from it. It would be nice in Bond 26 if Q tells Bond that his Aston has “had its day” and he gets a different branded car assigned to him like in Goldfinger

[@staurtsharman2299]

I have been waiting for a Bond fan to be honest on the DB5 issue. It is very overused. It was Connery's car, not Pierce Brosnan's, and certainly NOT Daniel Craig's! Let's move on. You are right.

[@TheSmart-CasualGamer]

My favourite Bond car isn't even this, it's the DBS from Casino Royale. In fact, I didn't even realize it was the DB5 that Bond wins at the card game, I assumed it was a slightly different Aston Martin from the same sort of time period. Wonder what Q thought when Bond lobbed it their way for the implementation of the gadgets in Skyfall?

[@4879daniel]

Look what side Bond is sitting on when driving in these clips.

[@TheSmart-CasualGamer]

@@4879daniel Holy crap it switches sides. Of course, different country isn't it? That must be a Q modification too.

[@anthonydpearson]

I think the way the did it in the Brosnan era was fantastic - the DB5 is still his personal car that he uses for fun, but there’s a new, modern car that’s his main tool in the missions.

[@SaintsAwayOllie]

Casino Royale’s and QOS’ Aston DBS will always be the coolest slickest bond car for me. However I think they should stick with Silver/ Gray Astons but make it one from the era the film took place. Much like the Vanquish from Die another day.

[@commodorerook3797]

The DB5 is the Walther PPK of cars to Bond. Sure there are newer models, but are just so iconic for Bond!

[@cannibalholocaust3015]

Aston Martin must appreciate a film franchise literally saving their entire business.

[@demetrisross17]

I think we may possibly be in a transition period. Like yes the DB5 was introduced again in NTTD but, we also got the V8 Vantage as well. What if we see more of the V8 Vantage or maybe even the “Vanish” in the next bond incarnations?

[@Ike1129]

Yo, Calvin! Great content as always! If you're looking for other stories to review similar to Bond, maybe look into checking out this show we have in the states called "Burn Notice!" It's very similar to James Bond in its own way and it's hands down my favorite television show of all time. This is coming from a man who been Bond geek ever since he was 3 years old (Connery was my first Bond). If you like James Bond, you'll at least appreciate Burn Notice if you haven't experienced it already.

[@Sco3000]

Brosnan tastefully used the DB5 in a couple quick passing shots in TND.