The Forgotten Mogul: How Gregory Ratoff Relinquished the Crown Jewels of Spy Cinema
Next time you watch Bond order a vodka martini, spare a thought for Gregory Ratoff. He was the man who held the keys to the kingdom—and politely handed them back before the door was unlocked. gregory ratoff james bond rights relinquished
Gregory Ratoff was a Hollywood heavyweight in the 1940s, known for his heavy accent and larger-than-life personality (he famously directed All About Eve ’s non-stage sequences). In the mid-1950s, Ratoff saw potential in Fleming’s novels. He purchased an option for the film rights to Casino Royale . The Forgotten Mogul: How Gregory Ratoff Relinquished the
When Broccoli and Saltzman formed Eon Productions, they wanted to start with Casino Royale , but Ratoff’s lingering claim made it legally impossible. So, they pivoted to Dr. No instead. The rest is history. In the mid-1950s, Ratoff saw potential in Fleming’s novels
Why isn't Ratoff’s name on the Dr. No poster? Because when he relinquished the general rights, he only kept Casino Royale .