The Oscar nominations were revealed two days ago. As such, the film industry and movie fans once again are ripe with speculation about who will win an Academy Award. One of the most enduring movie franchises ever is that of the James Bond series, featuring leading actors such as Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig in the title role.

When Daniel Craig's final James Bond movie was released, an acquaintance and I discussed who might replace him. My conversation partner suggested that it was time for a woman to take on the role of 007. I found this view to be odd; James Bond, in Ian Fleming's series, unquestionably is a man. My colleague contended that whether it's James Bond or any superhero, it’s important that characters evolve over time to reflect diversity.

Spare me!

If someone wants to devise a female spy character, they are free to create their own novel, screenplay, or play. To claim that Bond needs to become a woman in the name of diversity is essentially saying that those who want a female Bond lack the creativity to create their own, original character.

As you guessed, my acquaintance is on the left politically. I said that if we start down the path where major characters from books, movies, theatre productions, etc., throughout history, must change their gender, race, or some other core trait to........

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