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Many actors have performed the role of Simon Templar, but none could come close to the beaming originality exuded by Roger Moore as "The Saint" of the 60s.
Ian Ogilvy and Val Kilmar have appeared as Simon Templar in "The Return of the Saint" and the movie "The Saint" respectively, but failed to generate the euphoria initially pioneered by Moore. After viewing some of the episodes portraying Moore as S.T., it seems that no other actor could merit a better visage and physiognomy which does exactly reflect the character produced by Leslie Charteris.
This was the time, when Sean Connery was the new heartthrob of cine-goers as the dashing James Bond. Roger Moore was among the actors selected by Ian Fleming to play the iconic spy role, but Cubby Broccolli settled for Connery, considering Moore to be sporting a too pretty visage.
This too pretty and soft visage of Roger Moore effectively loaded the role of Simon Templar and the TV series was an instant hit, which extended through the decade of 60s due to its resounding popularity. The winsome, suave and tall Roger Moore won the hearts of people who accepted him to be someone readily associated with that famous Marque/sobriquet topped with the elusive ring on his head.
Finally, in 1973, Moore got the role of James Bond and did it in a record seven films, i,e. more than any other actor. Connery did it 6 times. Basically, the robust and suave role of Simon Templar was a precursor to the James Bond of Ian Fleming ...... properly grooming Roger Moore to make a thundering start for the big screen character.
score 10/10
Umar Mansoor Bajwa 27 May 2009
Reprint: https://www.imdb.com/review/rw2072363/ |
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11-11-2020 22:38:06