AceShowbiz - Pierce Brosnan has taken aim at former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, branding him a "hollow man" who faltered politically due to his "mild stupidity". The former "James Bond" studied footage of Blair as part of his research for the politician he plays in Roman Polanski's new film "The Ghost Writer" - because he was convinced the former leader was the inspiration for the character.

And his look back over Blair's career was far from impressive. Brosnan's studies led him to believe the former Prime Minister Blair thought he was able to head a country, despite lacking the required skills. The actor tells Empire magazine, "I looked at his speeches and his interaction and his public stance. I went to the book (adapted for the film) and here's a man who's come down from Cambridge (revered U.K. university) with all the social graces and charm."

"He was led to believe that he could be a politician for the people. He was primed. He was groomed. And of course his arrogance and mild stupidity led him down to the story that we see before us. A hollow man - spiritually, emotionally, intellectually rudderless."

And by studying Blair, Brosnan is more convinced than ever that the politician was wrong to get involved with war in the Middle East. The actor adds, "He was impetuous to run into this war. The Americans didn't want him in the war - they didn't need him... But he wanted to grandstand and be a hero of the army. It was unnecessary. It's blood on the hands."

Blair stepped down from power in 2007 after over 10 years in charge. He handed the job over to current leader Gordon Brown.