BONDING
August 6-10 - Greenside at Riddle's Court. Actor and playwright Cyril Blake is Stephen, a 35 who has always dreamed of being James Bond, complete with the tuxedo, charm, and swagger. But beyond the glamour, does Bond represent an outdated model of masculinity for Stephen to emulate and use as a mask. We follow Stephen's journey, not just through the lens of emulating a spy but also in navigating the complexities of being a millennial man. In a society constantly redefining what it means to be a modern British gentleman, Stephen grapples with family expectations and the shifting ideals of masculinity, searching for a way to balance tradition with progress. For Stephen and his dad, Bond films were more than just cinematic escapism—they were a cherished ritual. Across the 60-year history of the franchise, these movies have served as a rare, enduring bridge between fathers and sons, offering a unique space to connect and often with few words between them. Unlike other franchises, whose releases have become routine and fatiguing, Bond’s sporadic appearances have maintained a sense of occasion, turning each new film into an event. In a landscape where the frequency of sequels has diluted the magic of anticipation, Bond remains a symbol of continuity, a cinematic thread that ties generations together. This shared experience passed down through decades, isn’t just about action and espionage--it's a profound testament to the power of tradition and to the way these moments of bonding have shaped and been shaped by the evolving ideals of what it means to be a man in modern Britain. For Stephen, escaping the expectations of a working-class Yorkshire upbringing to become an actor was a mission worthy of Bond himself. Armed with a repertoire of spy-like techniques—seduction, confidence, and charm—he navigated drama school, relationships, and deep personal grief. Yet beneath this bravado lay a deeper sensitivity, a truth that British masculinity often demands men mask. In the dim glow of cinema, Stephen found an escape, especially in films like Skyfall and No Time to Die, where both he and his father could retreat into the shared solace of Bond’s world. In these moments, the burdens of expectation were momentarily lifted, and the emotional release from their shared grief they needed could be found in the darkness of cinema. As the play builds to its climax, Stephen delivers a moment of raw, unfiltered emotion, sharing something deeply personal with the audience—a revelation that transforms the theatre into an intimate space of vulnerability. It's here that Cyril's brilliance as a naturalistic actor shines, seamlessly blending the lines between the performer and the character. In this powerful finale, the masks that men often wear, especially in British culture, fall away, revealing the profound truth beneath. Much like the talented Bond, I hope Cyril returns for another mission next year at the Fringe, he is someone to watch! 5/5 Lee Hutchison |