It’s almost two years until Daniel Craig returns as James Bond but the rumour mill is as active as ever.
Inspired by the speculation, rumours and guesses, Ladbrokes Casino have commissioned five poster which imagine what the promo material for the next film may look like.
Keen Bond fans will spot that this one, designed by Matt Ferres, features legendary villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld.
The poster is based on speculation that the character could be about to return to the franchise after a 30 year gap.
He first appeared in From Russia with Love, returning in Thunderball, You Only Live Twice, On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Diamonds Are Forever and For Your Eyes Only.
Blofeld also appeared in the 1983 film Never Say Never Again, a remake of Thunderball helmed by Kevin McClory who co-wrote that film with Ian Fleming and who sued for a share of the rights.
Bond producers MGM recently bought all rights owned by the McClory’s estate, prompting speculation about his possible return.
While recent Bond films has restored a sense of danger to the world of Bond, none of have offered up the sort of iconic villain who helped the franchise capture the imaginations of 1960’s and 70’s audiences.
How many casual cinema-goers could name the villain in any of the three Craig films? Yet we bet almost everyone could name Jaws, Goldfinger and Blofeld unprompted.
The rebooted series has already successfully reintroduced Q, Moneypenny and M’s traditional wood-lined, naval themed office – could it be about to revive one of its most famous baddies?