Watch Henry Cavill’s James Bond Audition After 20 Years

After two decades, the audition tape of Henry Cavill for the role of James Bond has emerged online, captivating fans and film enthusiasts alike. This comes in the wake of Pierce Brosnan’s exit from the iconic franchise after his final portrayal in Die Another Day (2002).Subsequently, Daniel Craig stepped into the role, debuting in Casino Royale (2006) and continuing through several subsequent films, including Quantum of Solace (2008), Skyfall (2012), Spectre (2015), and No Time to Die (2021).Interestingly, Cavill was among the leading contenders for Bond during the casting of Casino Royale, but Craig ultimately secured the role.

Now, fans can finally view Cavill’s audition tape, recorded in 2005. The tape is hosted on YouTube, featuring a youthful Cavill performing various screen tests. Notably, he delivers iconic lines from GoldenEye, including the famed “vodka martini, shaken not stirred”and his introduction as “Bond, James Bond.”Here’s the full audition:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaSGBSqHt-U

Henry Cavill James Bond Screen Tests 2005 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaSGBSqHt-U)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaSGBSqHt-U

Henry Cavill James Bond Screen Tests 2005 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaSGBSqHt-U)

Implications of Henry Cavill’s Audition Tape for the Next James Bond

Reigniting Interest in Cavill

Cavill’s audition offers a rare opportunity to glimpse how he might have interpreted the character of Bond. Director Martin Campbell, who helmed both GoldenEye and Casino Royale, acknowledged Cavill’s potential, stating that he “looked great”and his “acting was tremendous.”He noted that at the time, Cavill was “very handsome and chiseled, ”and while Campbell favored Cavill’s audition, the producers opted for Craig due to their preference for an older portrayal of Bond.

In light of Craig’s recent farewell to the franchise, Cavill’s audition may once again spark discussions about him stepping into the iconic role. Although he was previously deemed too young for Bond in 2005, current speculation suggests he might now be considered too old as the producers appear to be favoring a younger candidate. Reports indicate that actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson has become a frontrunner, although no official announcement has been made yet.

Reflecting on Henry Cavill’s James Bond Audition

Potential Bond: Cavill’s Transformation

After reviewing the audition tape, it becomes clear why Cavill was a serious contender alongside Craig for Casino Royale in 2006. Campbell remarked that Cavill was the only other actor seriously considered for the role, indicating that, in an alternate reality without Craig’s involvement, Cavill could have made a compelling James Bond. While Craig’s portrayal is undeniably successful, Cavill’s audition proves that he too possesses the charisma and presence required for the legendary character.

For those interested in revisiting this significant moment in Bond history, you can view Cavill’s audition tape here.

Source: Ron South