What happens when 007 becomes Double Bro 7...

Today, we discuss the true meaning of what it means to be "English English." As in I'm English as all bloody hell. But you? You are simply english, with the little 'e'. Because things like this matter and require clarification so that the rest of us will be better informed and equipped when seeking to better measure any Englishman we happen to meet in the future who needs measuring.

So for the sake of reference, there was this story last week about how Roger Moore, the 007 who once upon a time replaced Original Bond Sean Connery in the subsequent long line of movie actor 007s, registered his disapproval of the choice of Idris Elba as the possible next 007 because he wasn't "English English." This comment tossed Moore straight in the line of fire of criticism from quite a few folk who viewed that comment for what it was, which is idiotic. Not wishing to be viewed as idiotic, it was less than surprising when, similar to the young Oklahoma University frat brat who joyfully joined his brethren in chanting racial slurs on a bus until it became public that he had been chanting racial slurs on a bus, swiftly issued a public correction and stated that his comments had been taken out of context in the Paris Match interview where he made said comments.  For the record, this is the part of what Moore said that got everybody so pissed off:

"Although James may have been played by a Scot, a Welshman and an Irishman, I think he should be 'English-English.' Nevertheless it's an interesting idea… but unrealistic."

But the more complete quote, reported in the Guardian, isn't much better:

"The 87-year-old actor was quoted by Paris Match saying: 'A few years ago, I said that Cuba Gooding Jr would make an excellent Bond, but it was a joke!' He reportedly continued, 'Although James may have been played by a Scot, a Welshman and an Irishman, I think he should be ‘English-English’. Nevertheless, it’s an interesting idea, but unrealistic.”

And this is his apology, as reported by Shadow and Act:

“An interview I gave to Paris Match implies I said something racist about Idris Elba. That is simply untrue... When a journalist asks if 'Bond should be English' and you agree, then quotes you saying it about Idris Elba it's out of context."

And if I can back up for a second, I'm aware that frat brat issued an apology whereas Double O No Bro issued a 'clarification', but since neither can be taken all that seriously, does it really matter?

Moving on, those who are fans of James Bond are well aware that every single James Bond replacement since Sean Connery, the original Bond, has been criticized as unworthy, and oftentimes not mildly so. Daniel Craig really got lit up for essentially not having dark enough hair. So if being too blonde for Bond can cause a problem, Moore's reaction shouldn't come as a shock when a dark-skinned black man is now being considered for the role. Because going from Pierce Brosnan to Daniel Craig was a jolt to the Double O system, but going from Craig to Elba is gonna give some folks whiplash. Because trust me when I say that if Elba gets this, Moore's comments will fade into the rear view mirror and sound almost like a wet kiss endorsement compared to what's coming.

So then, to review; what is the precise meaning of 'English English'? Roughly translated, it means, "Not you, Idris."

Note: This has been crossposted from The Blue Route