Children of Men

Clive Owen

Could have been Bond in: "Casino Royale" (2006)

Case file: This British specialist in antihero roles ("Inside Man," "Children of Men") had been a favorite to take over as Bond ever since his dashing yet gritty turn in "Croupier," the U.K. export that first got him some serious attention in the States. His tough-guy demeanor, dry wit and smoldering persona seemed tailor-made for 007 status, yet Owen himself consistently said he was not interested in the role. Even a reported personal phone call from "Casino Royale... more" director Martin Campbell apparently couldn't persuade him. We're huge fans of Daniel Craig -- don't get us wrong -- but we still wonder what Owen would have done with the part. (Pat Sullivan/Retna UK)