He spent much of “From Russia with Love” and part of “The World is Not Enough” there, now James Bond is returning to Istanbul for a quick visit in the upcoming “Bond 23”.
MI6-HQ.com reports that the opening scenes for the next 007 instalment will be shot in the Turkish metropolis in November. Culture and Tourism Minister Ertugrul Günay says “The opening scenes are planned to be filmed in Istanbul, but some other places will also be used outside Istanbul for the film.”
A number of locations including Sultanahmet Square and various areas along the Bosphorus are under consideration for the Turkish scenes which are said to constitute 10-15 minutes of the final film. Local Turkish actresses are also being considered for the role of a villain’s girlfriend, with model and presenter Ebru Akel having tried out for the part last month (but apparently did not land it).
Showbiz 411 talked with Daniel Craig last week who said he should be starting work on the film within the next few days. The actor tells MTV that despite being signed for another two Bond films after this upcoming one, he’s aware his tenure could end at anytime due to other circumstances – “I’m always of the opinion that tomorrow could be my last day.”
The actor however added that he’s very keen to get back to work on what’s already being called a return to classic Bond – “We’ve got a great script this time. I’m as excited about this script as I was about the ‘Casino Royale’ script. I think in Sam [Mendes] we’ve got the perfect director. The cast is coming together now. I can’t wait to get going on it really.”
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