We're as much of a fan of James Bond as the next guy who likes his Q gadgets, but we can't help but think what a bummer it is that some of the best films in the series, like Goldeneye and (dare we argue) Octopussy aren't available yet on Blu-Ray format, the way they were meant to be seen.  But MGM rectified that this week at the Consumer Electronics Show when it made an announcement at Panasonic's booth regarding a special collector's edition set, due for release this year.

For the announcement, Panasonic brought in some really big guns.  While current Bond favorite Daniel Craig is busy filming the latest Bond adventure, plenty of veterans from the series filled in to talk about the Bond 50 set.  These included John Glen, director of several films including Octopussy and For Your Eyes Only; Martin Campbell, who helmed both Goldeneye and Casino Royale; and Michael Apted, the director of The World Is Not Enough.  Also on hand were a couple of Bond babes, Caterina Murino from Casino Royale and the equally lovely Olga Kurylenko from Quantum of Solace.

Bond 50 showcases fifty years of Bond neatly packaged into one cool, sleek collectable box-set featuring all six iconic James Bond actors. Produced using the highest possible picture quality and audio presentation, the collection includes all 22 James Bond feature films from Dr. No to Quantum of Solace and more than 130 hours of bonus features including some new and exclusive content.  And the set includes films never before released on Blu-Ray, including fan favorites like Octopussy and Goldeneye (finally!) as well as obscure, lesser films like A View To A Kill.  (Though we did dig Walken, for the record.  Who wouldn't?)  The set is also coming for DVD.

"With all 22 feature films available on Blu-ray in one collection for the first time this is a great way for fans to catch up on 007's epic journey before Skyfall hits theaters next Fall," said Michael Brown, Senior Vice President, MGM Home Entertainment. "Now viewers can enjoy the intense action of the innovative franchise in the most immersive home experience possible." 

Considering that Bond has left his mark in video games as of late with Activision's release of Goldeneye 007: Reloaded, it's nice to see his classic films get a similar touch.

And yes, we liked Octopussy.  Hush.

About the Author

Robert Workman

Senior Writer/Editor

Robert has years of experience in the video game industry, writing for such sites as AOL GameDaily, PlanetXbox360 and Comic Book Resources.  He can also outdrink you any day of the week.  And twice on Sunday.  Follow him at www.twitter.com/thedcd.