Is Charlize Theron as Lorraine Broughton from Atomic Blonde Actually the First Female 007? Why or Why Not
The film Atomic Blonde, starring Charlize Theron as the character Lorraine Broughton, often sparks debates about female representation in the spy genre. One such discussion centers around whether Theron's character can be considered the first female 007. To address this, it is crucial to understand the context and the unique qualities of both Lorraine Broughton and the original James Bond.
Key Points and Clarifications
Key Point 1: Different Franchise
The character Lorraine Broughton in Atomic Blonde is a standalone creation from a graphic novel, and the film is not part of the James Bond series. This alone makes Theron's character distinct from the 007 legacy.
Key Point 2: James Bond's Legacy
The term "007" designates a specific agent within the James Bond franchise. Any actor taking on the role of Bond, whether male or female, would be filling this unique position rather than being a "female 007."
Key Point 3: Cultural Impact
Prominent roles like Lorraine Broughton in Atomic Blonde do contribute to the broader discussion of female representation in spy films. However, these characters are part of their own narratives and do not directly align with the established canon of James Bond.
Therefore, while Lorraine Broughton is a formidable and iconic character in her own right, she does not represent the first female 007 because she exists in a different narrative universe.
Why the Producers Did It Right
Embracing Originality
The producers of Atomic Blonde created a new character and storyline, adhering to the principles of originality. This approach highlights the significance of creating unique narratives rather than forcing adapté mythologies. The success of such a film should encourage other writers and producers to prioritize originality.
One could argue that it is better to create a new, strong female character rather than try to alter an existing male one. The model worked for Atomic Blonde, so there is a lesson to be learned.
Why Lorraine Broughton Isn’t the First Female 007
1. No Such Thing as a Female 007
The designation "007" is specifically for male agents within the James Bond series. Any suggestion of a female 007 is largely conflating the roles of Bond and a powerful secret agent.
2. Charlize Theron's Character and Originality
The character Lorraine Broughton, played by Charlize Theron, is named Lorraine Broughton and does not have the iconic name James Bond. This inherent difference further separates Theron's character from the concept of a "female 007."
3. Creative Credit
Lorraine Broughton was created by authors such as Antony Johnston and Sam Hart. James Bond, on the other hand, was created by the renowned author Ian Fleming. These differing origins underline the distinct nature of the characters.
Considering that there is no concept of a "female 007," it is illogical to treat a strong female spy character as synonymous with the iconic 007 identity.
Is a Female James Bond Silly?
Some argue that the idea of a female James Bond, or Jane Bond, as suggested, is absurd. This perspective often hinges on the cultural and historical context in which the James Bond character was created. Bond is a product of his time and era, and attempting to alter this character would likely shift the narrative and the fanbase's expectations.
However, this does not diminish the importance of Charlize Theron's performance. She undoubtedly portrays a powerful and intriguing character that resonates with audiences. In this sense, Theron's work can be seen as a standalone icon in the post-Bond spy landscape.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The discussion around Charlize Theron as Lorraine Broughton in Atomic Blonde reveals the complexity of character creation and the importance of narrative universes. While Lorraine Broughton might not be the first female 007, her character and Theron's portrayal are significant milestones in the evolution of female representation in the spy genre.
Atomic Blonde serves as a testament to the power of female led narratives, challenging traditional expectations and paving the way for more diverse and dynamic portrayals of female spies.
Key Takeaways:
- Lorraine Broughton is a character from a different narrative universe, not the first female 007.
- Charlize Theron's portrayal is significant in its own right, regardless of the "female 007" debate.
- Originality in character creation is invaluable for storytelling and audience engagement.