The 007 Files (David Leigh, Bill Koenig, Javi Trujillo)

Join hosts Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Man with the Golden Gun, diving deep into its impact on the Bond franchise and its enduring legacy.

From nostalgic first viewings—whether at the Circle Theater in Indianapolis, the St Albans Odeon, or via VHS in the 1980s—to the iconic locations that inspired countless Bond fans to visit Thailand, we explore what makes this film so memorable.

In this episode, we discuss the ground-breaking astro-spiral car stunt, how it redefined action sequences, and why it still holds a place in cinema history. We also reflect on the film’s role in shaping Roger Moore's tenure as Bond, and the cultural footprint it left behind.

Whether you're a long-time fan or discovering it for the first time, this conversation offers fresh perspectives, fond memories, and fascinating behind-the-scenes insights.

🎙 Tune in now and join the celebration of this Bond milestone! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow Bond fans.

Recorded on 4th December 2024 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social or https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

David Leigh

https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

In this episode, Bill Koenig and Javi Trujillo are joined by author and Bond historian Steven Jay Rubin for a revealing conversation centred on The James Bond Films: A Behind the Scenes History. Rubin shares how the book first came about and the incredible access he had in the late 1970s—including an unforgettable screening of an early cut of The Spy Who Loved Me alongside Ken Adam and Michael G. Wilson.

Rubin opens up about interviewing Cubby Broccoli, the mistake of sharing transcripts with him, and the behind-the-curtain tensions that followed—and reveals why Michael G. Wilson stopped speaking to him.The discussion takes fascinating turns: how he was forced to use his creativity to source over 200 images for the book, the notorious Criterion Collection laserdisc commentaries and why they were banned, and talking vaudeville with Harry Saltzman. Rubin also reflects on his later work—including The James Bond Movie Encyclopedia

Looking ahead, he offers candid thoughts on what Amazon should (and shouldn't) do with the franchise, why Bond must remain contemporary, and why—despite the action and glamour—it’s ultimately a family series.

With sharp insight, behind-the-scenes stories, and reflections on Bond’s legacy and future, this episode is essential listening for any Bond fan who wants to go deeper than the gun barrel.

Where to find us

Steven Jay Rubin

https://www.stevenjayrubin.com/

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough⁠⁠

Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig and David Leigh get together once again for a wide-ranging discussion on the new producers taking the helm of the James Bond franchise at Amazon MGM Studios. We explore who they are, what their backgrounds might reveal, and how their influence could shape the future of 007 on screen.

Before we get into that, we talk about the Oscars tribute to Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson and how it was hastily assembled to be ready just days after the news that they had agreed to give up creative control of 007 to Amazon MGM. We also reflect on the recent deaths of Bruce Glover—Mr Wint from Diamonds Are Forever—and legendary Bond poster artist Robert McGinnis. Plus, there’s a preview of Raymond Benson’s upcoming Felix Leiter novel and our thoughts on the new 4K Sean Connery Bond box set.

Whether you’re a longtime Bond fan or just curious about what’s next for the series, there’s plenty to enjoy in this episode.

Recorded on 11th April 2025 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠⁠⁠⁠

David Leigh

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Bill Koenig and Javi Trujillo discuss the recent article by WSJ in which it is claimed that the relationship between Eon Productions boss Barbara Broccoli and MGM's new owner, Amazon, has broken down due to a clash over the future of 007.

Recorded on 20 December 2024 in the USA.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠⁠⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠⁠

Neil S. Bulk, a freelance producer and editor who has worked on nine James Bond soundtracks for La-La Land Records, talks to Bill Koenig and Javi Trujillo. He discusses technical challenges, the work involved and how he feels he's never left high school.

The ninth Bond album from La-La Land, Licence to Kill, is shipping now.

Before that David Leigh joins Bill and Javi to briefly chat about Ian Fleming Publications' plans for 2025, including a book of previously unseen material by Ian Fleming.

Recorded on 28th and 29th January 2025 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Neil S. Bulk

https://bsky.app/profile/nsbulk.bsky.social

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠⁠⁠

David Leigh

⁠⁠⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Jeffrey Westhoff, a long-time James Bond fan, is living the dream. He has published spy novels for the Young Adult market.

Bill Koenig talks to Jeffrey about his new novel, From Wonderland With Love. They also discuss how Jeffrey became a Bond fan and how he interviewed Roger Moore.

You can find us at:

Bill Koenig
https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

Jeffrey Westhoff https://www.westhoffpws.com/jeffreywesthoff/

In this 007th episode of the podcast, Javier Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh take a Licence to Legacy as they celebrate the 60th anniversary of the seminal Bond film, Goldfinger.

They dive into discussing their first experiences with Goldfinger, revisiting the film’s thrilling moments and discussing how it refined the plot of Ian Fleming’s novel to create an unforgettable cinematic adventure.

The episode also explores whether Goldfinger set the definitive formula for Bond films and examines the cultural wave it sparked upon release. Join us for this insightful journey into one of the most influential entries in the 007 franchise!

Recorded on 12th November 2024 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

https://x.com/javiTru

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

David Leigh https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

In this continuation of our exploration of The Man With The Golden Gun, we delve into the lasting legacy of the ninth James Bond film, celebrating 50 years of its impact.

Bill Koenig shares a fascinating story about interviewing the former CEO of General Motors for a piece on Ford’s return to Bond with Die Another Day. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as we discuss Maud Adams’ double appearance in the Bond franchise.

We also take a closer look at recent Bond-themed merchandise and collectibles before reflecting on the cultural and cinematic legacy of The Man With The Golden Gun and its resonance half a century later. To wrap things up, we offer an exciting preview of what’s in store for next year.

This episode is packed with insights, anecdotes, and plenty of Bond trivia to keep fans enthralled. Don’t miss it!

Recorded on 4th December 2024 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠ or ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠

David Leigh

⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

In this second instalment celebrating 60 years of Goldfinger, Javi Trujillo is joined by Bill Koenig and David Leigh for a lively discussion delving into the film's enduring appeal and cultural impact. Together, we explore the world of Goldfinger merchandise, the iconic Aston Martin DB5 and Mustang, and the evolution of Felix Leiter’s portrayal over the years. We also dive into the film’s unforgettable quotes, its script development, and why Goldfinger remains a cornerstone of the Bond legacy.

Tune in as we unpack the elements that solidified Goldfinger as one of the most iconic films in the James Bond franchise—and beyond!

Recorded on 12th November 2024 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

https://x.com/javiTru

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

David Leigh

https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

In this final episode of the year—and the end of Season 1—Bill, Javi, and David dive into a range of topics to close out 2024 on a high note. We kick things off by discussing the news of a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remake and speculate on how this, along with Barbara Broccoli's involvement in Othello, might affect the timeline for Bond 26.

Looking ahead, Javi suggests that Formula 1 should feature in Bond 26, sparking a lively debate about whether it fits the franchise and how many races should actually take place in the US. As we share our hopes for 2025, the conversation turns to Aaron Taylor-Johnson, before we finally wrap things up on a festive note, chatting about our plans for Christmas.

It’s been an incredible first season, and we’re thrilled to have you along for the journey. Stay tuned for Season 2 in 2025!

Recorded on 16th December 2024 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠⁠

David Leigh

⁠⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Special guest Kyle Barbeau joins Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh as we continue our deep dive into The World Is Not Enough for its 25th anniversary.

In this episode, we examine the lasting influence of screenwriters Neal Purvis and Robert Wade, whose contributions have shaped the Bond series for over two decades. We also discuss the evolution of M’s role in TWINE and beyond, how the film handled its rare female villain, and what these choices meant for the franchise at the time.

Along the way, we share personal connections to the film, discuss whether it is Brosnan's Goldfinger, reflect on David Arnold’s score and question whether it’s time for his long-awaited return to the series, and consider the lessons Amazon might take from it as they shape the future of 007. Packed with analysis, nostalgia, and a few unexpected tangents, this is an episode no Bond fan should miss!

This episode was recorded on 22nd February in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Kyle Barbeau

⁠https://www.instagram.com/easysmilesandexpensivewatches⁠

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough⁠⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com⁠⁠

David Leigh

⁠⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com⁠

Robert Short, an Oscar-winning film and TV professional, talks to Bill Koenig about his experiences with James Bond. Short has witnessed scenes from Diamonds Are Forever being filmed, worked on an unmade film project where Jane Seymour and Ken Adam would have participated, and worked with George Lazenby on a 1983 made-for-TV movie.

Robert Short website: http://www.robertshortfx.com/

Robert Short wins an Oscar in 1989: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhWOXk6__-E

In this episode of The 007 Files, co-hosts Bill Koenig and Javi Trujillo discuss recent comments by an Amazon MGM executive about the Bond film franchise. They also take a look at one the least-loved Bond cars, the Ford Mondeo from 2006’s Casino Royale.

Bill runs ⁠The Spy Command⁠

Javi writes for ⁠The James Bond Dossier

Recorded on 11 October 2024 in the USA.

In this first part of our deep dive into Licence to Kill, Javi Trujillo leads the discussion with co-hosts Bill Koenig and David Leigh, along with special guest Eoghan Lyng. We kick things off by sharing our personal experiences of seeing Licence to Kill for the first time and reflecting on our initial reactions to Timothy Dalton’s darker, grittier take on Bond.

As we revisit our first impressions, we explore how the film's unique tone and departure from the traditional Bond formula impacted our views over time. From Bond’s quest for vengeance to the film’s raw action sequences, we begin to unpack why Licence to Kill remains one of the franchise’s most divisive entries.

Join us for an engaging conversation as we relive our first encounters with this bold chapter in 007’s history, setting the stage for more analysis in Part 2.

Recorded on 28 June 2024 in the United States, Spain and Ireland.

You can find us at:

Eoghan Lyng

https://x.com/EoghanLyng

Javi Trujillo

https://x.com/javiTru

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

David Leigh https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

In this first episode of The 007 Files, hosts David Leigh, Bill Koenig, and Javi Trujillo kick off the podcast with a Mission Briefing. Join them as they explore the inspiration and ideas behind the podcast, setting the stage for an exciting journey through the world of James Bond. The hosts delve into their personal Bond origin stories, sharing what drew them into the universe of 007.

The conversation then shifts to the most recent news—or lack thereof—surrounding Bond 26. The trio shares their thoughts on what's being reported.

Whether you’re a seasoned Bond fan or just getting started, this episode is the perfect introduction to the people behind the podcast and the discussions to come.

David can be found at The James Bond Dossier

Bill runs The Spy Command

Javi writes for The James Bond Dossier

This episode was recorded on 1 October 2024 in Spain and the USA.

In Part 2 of our deep dive into Licence to Kill, Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh continue the conversation with guest Eoghan Lyng. This time around they first focus the spotlight on the Fleming material used in the film. They then ponder how much the drug angle alienated audiences and discuss whether we can learn anything about Bond 26 from the six-year hiatus that followed Dalton's second outing as Bond.

Recorded on 28 June 2024 in the United States, Spain and Ireland.

You can find us at:

Eoghan Lyng

https://x.com/EoghanLyng

Javi Trujillo

https://x.com/javiTru

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

David Leigh

https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Today Amazon MGM and Eon Productions released a press release that stunned Bond fans everywhere. It details how Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson will be stepping back from the Bond franchise, with Amazon MGM taking over creative control.

In this episode we discuss our initial reactions to the news, as well as our hopes and fears for Bond 26 and the future of James Bond.

Recorded on 20th February 2025 in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Javi Trujillo

⁠⁠⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠⁠⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠⁠⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠⁠⁠

David Leigh

⁠⁠⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Hosts Javi Trujillo, Bill Koenig, and David Leigh are joined by special guest Kyle Barbeau to mark the 25th anniversary of The World Is Not Enough. We revisit our memories of its release, debate where it ranks among the 25 Bond films, and break down the explosive (and unusually long) pre-title sequence.

We also reflect on Desmond Llewelyn’s final turn as Q and his lasting legacy. Along the way, we veer into pondering where a James Bond Mount Rushmore should be located and whether Amazon might take inspiration from Casino Royale (1954) for future Bond projects.

It’s an episode filled with nostalgia, deep dives, and a few unexpected tangents. Don’t miss it!

This episode was recorded on 22nd February in the United States and Spain.

You can find us at:

Kyle Barbeau

https://www.instagram.com/easysmilesandexpensivewatches/

Javi Trujillo

⁠https://bsky.app/profile/javitru.bsky.social⁠ or ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebondisnotenough/⁠

Bill Koenig

⁠https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/⁠

David Leigh

⁠https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/

Frieda Toth has extensively researched the life and times of Ian Fleming and the literary James Bond. She talks to Bill Koenig, one of the co-hosts of The 007 Files about Fleming's complicated life, how Fleming's Bond is different than the Eon films, and her views about the Eon Bond actors.

Recorded in the United States on 26 October 2024

You can find us at:

Frieda Toth

https://x.com/3octaves

Bill Koenig

https://hmssweblog.wordpress.com/

What’s it really like to stay at Goldeneye, the secluded Jamaican estate where Ian Fleming dreamed up James Bond?

In this episode, I chat with Darryl Marsch, a lucky guest who’s experienced the magic of Goldeneye twice. From strolling along the same beaches Fleming wandered to visiting the villa where Casino Royale was born, Darryl’s stories bring Goldeneye to life in vivid detail.

Join us as we explore the tropical escape where Bond’s legacy began. Buckle up—it’s as close as you can get to living like Bond. Recorded on 17 July 2024 in Spain and USA

Where to find us Darryl Marsch

https://www.instagram.com/darrylrmarsch/

David Leigh https://www.thejamesbonddossier.com/