Casino Royale (1954)

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Overview: This 1954 episode of the CBS drama series “Climax!” marks the first onscreen appearance of James Bond, but he’s hardly the 007 to which we’re accustomed. Barry Nelson plays “Card Sense” Jimmy Bond, an American version of the agent. He defeats the evil Le Chiffre (played by Peter Lorre) in a high-stakes game of baccarat. Like its 1967 cousin, drink totals from this adaptation of Casino Royale will not count on the big board.

What does Bond drink? Towards the beginning of the drama, Bond meets in the casino bar with his British counterpart, Clarence Leiter. Bond orders a scotch and water, while Leiter gets a scotch and soda. (When the drinks arrive they appear dark, like cola or grape juice.) Incredibly, Bond is indifferent towards the drink, and does not take so much as a sip.

Memorable quote:

Jimmy Bond: “Le Chiffre...can I have some water?”
Le Chiffre: “Oh yes, with pleasure. Basil, give him all the water he wants. Get me some water, too.”

By the book: Based on Casino Royale (1953).

  • Bond and Leiter have a drink together in the casino bar. In the book, Leiter has a scotch on the rocks, while Bond creates his signature Vesper martini.

Total: One scotch and water. Sort of.


Original material © 2001 The Minister of Martinis
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