Controversy galore! Everything you've thought about and haven't had the courage or opportunity to vocalize as it relates to the world of James Bond 007. A fresh and inspired commentary from a self-deprecating Bond expert on all there is regarding the films, books, products, news, and more about your favorite spy. Stirring and shaking all at once, the Idiot Bond Fan podcast is your unabashed, no holds barred commentary on all things James Bond...like it or not. Hosted by Elan Ovadia.
What are the rules of being a true die-hard Bond fan? Have we been "commanded" to love or hate certain aspects of the world of James Bond by a higher power? Or are there simply a group of generally accepted principles or preferences that the overwhelming majority of Bond fans would agree on? Well, of course, there's always some that don't follow the Bond guidebook (self-included). And in tonight's discussion, we'll cover the Top 10 most accepted rules, followed by a wide variety of opinions from listeners. Including a newfound resurgence of love around Die Another Day??? That took even me by surprise.
We aren't James Bond...sorry it's true! We cannot physically be in five countries on three continents in a two hour period of time. But when we can't be at an event, secure a Bond related purchase, or have to experience the disappointment of hearing or seeing the joy others had when we when missed out, it can be disheartening. It can be down right FOMO. But fear not, the truth is you don't need to be everywhere, feel obligated to participate more than you so choose, and you can be selective in weighing out the choices around your James Bond fandom. External factors, divine-intervention, and of course the weight of your wallet will factor in. But most importantly, these difficult choices are best made with a clear head and careful consideration. You don't need to be everywhere, do everything, or buy every product. And if you have ever felt the guilt, shame, or just plan FOMO of not being able to do certain things in this James Bond fan world, then this one is for you.
Most of us Bond fans have a love/hate relationship with the primary retailer for all 007 related merch. We have complaints, we have qualms, and we have horror stories in many cases. But, most of us sit with our concerns and don't vocalize them out loud...particularly in content form. Well, I'm here to speak up for all of us. Let's talk about all the e-com shop where the fast majority of Bond fans do their 00-shopping. You may learn some things you didn't know before, and perhaps (doubtful) leave this episode cutting the company behind the store a little bit more slack than you did prior.
Cold Turkey Challenge complete, six months of no Bond movies! I'll give myself a small pat on the back for this accomplishment. But the greater accomplishment was having more time to dedicate to the things in my life that matter to me (ready for this?)...more than James Bond. Family, friends, work, and so many more things have taken up my free time getting off the Bond-watching hamster wheel that is constantly on repeat. It's been a success all around. But would you take a challenge like this? Would you take time off to do other things other than repetitiously watch the same 25 movies that you've probably seen dozens if not hundreds of times? You should...and here's why.
Living a Bond lifestyle and enjoying those sartorial moments is fun right? Well, it's also a challenge for the overwhelming majority of not just the fan community, but the male population overall that struggles daily with height, weight, and body-type challenges. Whether due to genetics, metabolism, stress, or nature, so many of us are unable to add ready-to-wear Bond pieces to our wardrobes due to a whole host of factors. And it's time we talked about why.... What has worked for me in "living a Bond lifestyle" and what hasn't? I'll share some personal anecdotes about struggles I've dealt with on a daily basis in having those personal style moments. And perhaps, you already know what I am talking about. Bond inclusivity for all is my motto and should be the standard.
Book reports, senior thesis paper, class presentations...you name it, I incorporated Bond into it growing up. And as I think back about the countless assignments I included 007 references, clips, or citations in, I realize looking back that it was more than just about sharing my Bond passion with my peers. Presenting Bond as an educational tool, whether as a student or teacher, is just another way of schooling those not familiar with our favorite secret agent and furthering the fandom. Here are are a couple of ways I have done it over the years, consciously and subconsciously.
We got a new Bond theme song this week...sort of. The new title track for "First Light" was released (along with the last significant marketing push for the game) literally hours after the CinemaCon Amazon MGM presentation. Coincidence or deliberate? I'll debate the theory tonight and give you my impressions on the new song. In addition, I'll discuss how the strategy behind IOI Interactive's debut of "First Light" should be something that the film folks are paying significant attention to. Listen and learn.
Twenty years...wow just saying that out loud is crazy. I remember where I was the day I saw Casino Royale in the cinema for the first time. And I also recall the uneasy, confused, and slightly annoyed feeling that it left me with all those years ago. But Casino Royale grew on me, year by year, and has risen in the ranks to top of my Bond favorites. Looking back, it's been quite a ride. And I'm excited to celebrate this phenomenal entry this year.
Did you take the Bait? (The show) And my bait and switch... Here's my short little take on Bait, the new Amazon limited series staring Riz Ahmed. I enjoyed it. I watched it. And here's why you should too.
Season 3 has finally arrived! New topics, new surprises, and new guest stars. Tonight, I'm thrilled to welcome the award-winning Billboard Top 10 recording artist, Kendra Erika, who just released her newest album "License to Thrill." And thrill it does! This bold new musical venture features ten complete reinterpretations of Bond classic theme songs, with love to Bond fans, from a self-described Bond fan. We'll discuss the inspirations behind the arrangements, her Bond history growing up, and what makes this album stand out from all the xerox covers that have come before. Stream this fantastic new collection of music on all major platforms now and stay tuned for upcoming tour dates around the globe to hear Kendra's sultry and seductive voice reinvent the wheel in the best way possible when it comes to Bond music. You won't be disappointed.
How can you incorporate James Bond into your home decor, furnishings, artwork, and design? Well, I'm in the middle of doing just that, so I'm your perfect source of inspiration on this one. Another insanely, unrelated Bond topic (subjective of course) to discuss on this special episode tonight: finding those moments in production design, set decoration, and even in title art and procuring pieces for your home that draw inspiration from the Bond films. You'll be surprised how many opportunities there are to do so that you haven't considered yet!
Have you found Bond in your travels? As I travel for work during my busy season, I think back on all the instances where I was in random places that brought Bond to the front of my mind. And no, not in the obvious places like your local martini bar. But more those places where any other human being would not see a Bond connection...except for you. Have you had those moments in your travels? I certainly have.
It's been an incredible year at Idiot Bond Fan and in the world of James Bond 007. Never when we launched back in January did I think it would all amount to this. Event host, website moderator, award nominee, regular contributor and collaborator, Bond friend; I don't know how I've found time to sleep, but it's been very personally rewarding. In tonight's first year wrap-up show, I'll discuss all the incredible highs (and some defining challenges) of becoming a new voice in the Bond Fan Community. We'll cover some of the highlights in Bond news across 2025 and things we can look forward to in 2026. But most importantly, I'll shower you all with my appreciation and gratitude for helping me launch this journey. Here's to an incredible year to come as a Bond fan!
Spin the wheel (or turn it if you will!). Every Bond actor has had it...that moment when their time as 007 expires. There are some commonalities to explore here, a few conspiracy theories, and a financial overview of Bond salaries that makes no sense whatsoever. Let's explore when things turned for each actor, and what if anything, we can learn about how things may play out in the future for the next one.
The conclusion to my Best/Worst Posters conversation with the one and only, Chris Morales (aka That One Bond Guy). Surprisingly, we had a lot of agreement on those posters that belong more in a dumpster fire outside your multiplex than on your wall. Have a listen and see if you concur!
The Goldeneye 30th Anniversary Weekend is in the books! If you weren't able to attend, let me recap the details about this action-packed day that drew fans in from across eight Northeast states to celebrate the joyous occasion. It was filled with a lot laughs, great conversation, good cigars and booze, and a hell of a 35mm screening. Most importantly, it was filled with new friendships and introductions, rekindling old relationships, and just enjoying the company of your Bond brothers (and sisters!). More importantly, the weekend opened up the conversation of the future of our community. Who should be raising their hand next to help our community grow the number and variety of events that we can regularly take part in? You should! Join me as I reflect back on this epic Bond experience.
Close your eyes for a moment and think back on all those times throughout your time out in the wild where Bond has appeared in your life. And now, think specifically of those less than overt Bond moments that you have encountered on a daily basis. Was there a 007 sushi roll on the menu at the restaurant? Did you happen to stroll down Bond Street today? Maybe your waiter at that sushi restaurant had a name tag labeled "Lupe" ? I know I've had plenty of those experiences over the years where my senses are drawn to Bond related things and places. The synapse connections in my brain get fired up when I have that sensory reaction to a Bond related word or item. Have you had the same experience before?
Join myself and "That One Bond Guy," Chris Morales, for an in-depth discussion of the Bond franchise's best and worst posters over the last sixty years. We'll share our personal favorites and why we are drawn to certain poster art. International versions, British quads, teaser and character designs, we'll cover it all. Part One focuses on our personal "Top 10 Best" plus some personal anecdotes about how we actually met years before I joined the community completely by accident. This is an AUDIO only version. Visit my social to follow along with the posters discussed. Stay tuned for Part Two shortly!4
