Goldeneye (1995): Timothy Dalton was originally contracted to play Bond for a third time. However, because of legal squabbles over the ownership of the James Bond franchise, a new movie could not be penned until four years later.

By this time, Dalton announced he did not wish to play Bond anymore and the producers signed on Remmington Steele actor Pierce Brosnan.

Bond: Pierce Brosnan, Director: Martin Campbell, Bond Girls: Izabella Scorupco and Famke Janssen

Die Another Day (2002): Prior to its release, many rumours enshrouded D.A.D (as it was popularly called).

One such rumour claimed former President Bill Clinton would play an American politician who would be kidnapped by a villainous Kevin Spacey. However, this proved to be utter balderdash as this was never once corroborated by the film's cast or crew.

This was also the last time Pierce Brosnan pulled on Bond's tailoured suits, ruined Q's devices and delivered his trademark witty one-liners.

Bond: Pierce Brosnan, Director: Lee Tamahori, Bond Girls: Halle Berry and Rosamund Spike

Photograph: Getty Images