In the first James Bond adventure, we encounter Quarrel (played by John Kitzmiller), the most skilled fisherman in Kingston, Jamaica, whose invaluable assistance aids Bond (portrayed by Sean Connery) in his quest to unravel the mystery behind the murder of secret service representative John Strangways (played by Timothy Moxon). Quarrel, besides being a proficient seafarer and adept navigator, possesses an extensive but somewhat credulous understanding of local customs and legends.
Prior to Bond’s arrival in Jamaica, Quarrel had aided Strangways in collecting rock samples from Crab Key, an island rumored to be inhabited by a fire-breathing dragon according to local folklore—a belief rooted in the disappearance of some of Quarrel’s friends who ventured there.
John Kitzmiller, (December 4, 1913- February 23, 1965) was an accomplished American actor. His career extended beyond the United States with a notable body of work that included approximately 40 European films. He garnered widespread recognition in Europe, becoming the first Black actor to receive the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor in 1957, for his role in the Yugoslav (Slovenian) film titled “Valley of Peace.” Kitzmiller is perhaps most renowned for his portrayal of Quarrel in the inaugural James Bond film produced by EON Productions, “Dr. No.”