For countless movie fans globally, Daniel Craig epitomizes James Bond, portraying a darker and more intense version of the character. In 2006, Casino Royale showcased that Craig was as suited for the iconic role as his predecessors, earning accolades from Sean Connery himself. While he is mostly seen as the hero, some of his standout performances lean towards more sinister roles.
Craig as a Despicable Villain in Road to Perdition
Before he became the iconic spy, Craig starred alongside Tom Hanks in a film adaptation of one of the finest crime comics ever. This film not only illustrated Craig’s exceptional ability to transform into a villain but also cemented its status as a modern classic in the gangster thriller arena. Over two decades later, his role remains one of Craig’s most overlooked performances.
Road to Perdition transports viewers to the 1930s, detailing the life of Irish-American mobster John Rooney, who dominates Rock Island, Illinois. With both a violent biological son, Connor, and his adopted son Michael Sullivan Sr., Rooney navigates the complexities of family and crime.
As Sullivan attempts to balance his mobster life with familial duties, a tragic chain of events unfolds when his son witnesses Connor’s ruthless act of violence. In retaliation, Connor murders Sullivan’s wife and younger son, leading Michael Sr. to flee with his surviving son, targeting the mob to settle the score. Eventually, Rooney calls upon a hitman named Maguire to resolve the situation.
The film introduces various villainous personalities: John Rooney, who abhors killing the Sullivans, and Maguire, a merciless killer who enjoys inflicting pain. Connor, played by Craig, begins as a threatening figure but is gradually revealed to be a deeply flawed individual. His cowardice and self-serving nature make him a monstrous antagonist, emulating the archetypal “problem child” living in the shadow of his father’s favored son.
Road to Perdition as a Flawless Adaptation
Unbeknownst to many, Road to Perdition adapts the graphic novel of the same name by Max Allan Collins and Richard Piers Rayner. While the film honors the original spirit, it diverges positively, especially with the ending. Both versions emphasize the cycle of violence across generations, but the film ends on a more heartfelt and optimistic note, underscoring the power of adaptation.
Despite the rise of superhero films, Road to Perdition remains one of the most respected and beautifully crafted crime stories in fiction. Craig’s role further solidified his stature as an actor, demonstrating his range before stepping into the iconic role of James Bond. Ultimately, the film stands as a testament to the rich narrative potential that crime stories can offer, making it a compelling chapter in cinematic history.
