Cinema Expo previews new Bond

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, June 30 (UPI) -- Cinema Expo, the European film industry conference in the Netherlands, concluded with a 20-minute preview of "Casino Royale," featuring the newest James Bond.

Expo attendees Thursday were the first to see how Daniel Craig tackled his new role as agent 007 -- following in the footsteps of more famous Bonds such as Sean Connery and Pierce Brosnan. Craig had a new take on Bond's personality, but kept the audience on edge with the standard high velocity chase scenes and aerial jumps, Daily Variety reported.

Sony Pictures Entertainment Vice Chairman Jeff Blake said he received permission to use the film only two days before, so the showing was mostly a surprise, the trade paper said.

"This footage has never been seen, except by all of us just two days ago," Blake said.

One of the new Bond women, Caterina Murino, was featured in seductive scenes with Craig.

Following the showing, a party with a casino theme was held at Amsterdam's RAI convention center.