Episode 54: Richard does not understand the difference between spy movies and the work done at real intelligence agencies.
The idea for this story came from watching the movie Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, a 2011 film starring Gary Oldman, Colin Firth, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hardy, and others (of course). In watching said film, and comparing its actors to the dashing good looks of Daniel Craig and the sexiness of MI6 as shown in Bond movies, Tim became worried about recruitment for spy agencies when they're shown to be so drab.
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“Be that as it may,” the examiner said, becoming frustrated against her better intentions. “We are in here to discuss your continued reference to ‘babes’ as a perk of this position. Now, this is a common misconception of the job, but one we must straighten out before you continue forward in the process. You have been heard saying a number of times that, ‘Bond gets the babes’ and “I’m going to get the babes, just like Bond.” Richard, I’m afraid that is untrue.”
What focus had wandered now became hyper focused on the examiner. “Of course that’s true,” Richard said. “Bond gets the babes. There’s nothing remotely untrue about that. Everyone knows that Bond gets the babes. Bond gets the babes. And I’m gonna get the babes, just like bond, who gets the babes.”
The examiner waved her hand. “Of course,” she said. “You misunderstand me, Richard. What I mean is that this job is not as glamorous as Hollywood makes it seem. You will be a spy for MI6, yes, like James Bond. But MI6 is radically different in real life than in the movies. And if you do not adjust your expectations you will be sorely suited for this position.”
Richard scoffed before muttering to himself. “Bond doesn’t get the babes?” he said. “This lady says Bond doesn’t get the babes. Watch any movie with Bond, James Bond, any movie, and what do you see? What does anyone see? Bond getting the babes. Bond gets the babes.”
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If you enjoy westerns like True Grit or The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, check out Tim’s western novel, Dust, available on Amazon in eBook form in addition to being read on the podcast.
For other resources, visit timdrugan.com.