Fans are apprehensive and excited about the future of James Bond, after the change in control from Barbara Broccoli to Michael G. Wilson. The transition raises concerns about how the legendary spy will fare in an evolving entertainment industry.
But there’s also excitement in the air for the future. David Lowbridge Ellis MBE, the editor-in chief of the 007GB club and the creator of Licence To Queer expresses his optimism regarding the potential of Amazon as a creative force.
Amazon MGM Studios announced a new joint venture on February 20, where Barbara Broccoli & Michael G. Wilson will share intellectual property ownership of the brand 007, and Amazon MGM takes full creative responsibility.
Lowbridge Ellis said: “We just don’t have a clue how it will turn out. A lot of Bond fanatics are very worried.” As Fleming (in his novel) said On Her Majesty’s Secret Service): ‘worry is a dividend paid to disaster before it is due’. We’ll wait and watch.”
He added: “Disney’s purchase of Star Wars was mentioned, but despite all their content and criticism, some great new stories were told.”
Here’s hoping Amazon will pick up the torch of creativity and make a movie for James Bond.
Creative Shift and Its Significance
Barbara Broccoli & Michael G. Wilson are the devoted stewards who have guided the James Bond Legacy, overseeing the evolution of Bond through many decades with six different actors playing the role. Albert “Cubby Broccoli” was the father who brought Ian Fleming’s James Bond to the screen with his 1962 film. Dr. NoThe James Bond franchise has been a huge success, with 25 films that have grossed over a billion dollars. It was the beginning of the James Bond Cinematic Universe.
Amazon MGM’s acquisition of creative assets could be a sign of upcoming strategic changes. The entertainment company has yet to decide how it will handle future James Bond films, television shows or digital content.
Daniel Craig was the star of the latest Bond movie. Many fans have discussed the possibility of a woman or person of colour playing James Bond.
Amazon MGM, under the creative direction of James Bond, may be able to bring this prospect nearer with its commitment to diversity casting.
Amazon MGM Studios Deal: Details
It was reported that Amazon MGM and Barbara Broccoli had creative differences regarding James Bond’s future direction. This decision began following the end of Daniel Craig’s portrayal of Bond in 2021. There is No Time to die.
The financial terms of the contract were not revealed, but the finalization is expected later in the year.
Amazon acquired MGM Studios in 2022 for a total of $6.5 billion. This gave them access to over 17,000 television shows and 4,000 movies.
Amazon has also purchased the distribution rights for all James Bond films. Since then, the company has explored ways to expand the franchise, possibly through streaming projects and spin-offs. These could include James Bond Prequels or stories that are interconnected within the 007 Universe.
Fans and industry Reactions
“There’s a reality check here: whether ‘diversity, equality and inclusion’ policy is currently in vogue or censured by political leaders matters very little; audiences nowadays expect to see people more like themselves represented on screen. If well-written, these more real-life characters could bring in a wider audience to Bond.
“Bond has been ‘woke’ (whatever that means) since Fleming, particularly in his treatment of women who, contrary to what people who haven’t read the books claim, are often more intelligent and empowered than Bond himself.”
Dan Marcus on X Disney has made Star Wars into a commodity and taken away almost all of its special qualities. Amazon plans to do this with James Bond. “What was once a theatrical, long-running FILM series will be stripped down and made into a commodity.”
Valerie Leon: Former Bond Girl to GMB It’s not something I should worry about, as life is constantly changing and evolving. I just…the Bond franchise was very British, and it won’t be anymore. And, obviously, if they make films, they won’t go into the cinema…Everything is so changed now, it won’t be the same, and I’m very old fashioned anyway.”
Mike Beauvais on X We used to see a James Bond film every couple of years that was (generally speaking) excellent, but now it’s gone. You can expect Young Q and 00 Origins Trevelyan, as well as other unwatchable Amazon Prime slop.
Darren Dixon writes on X Barbara Broccoli steps down. Amazon now controls the James Bond franchise. I’m guessing DEI s**t will dictate. Bond is likely to be black and gay, then transition into Jane Bond while wearing a Palestinian Flag dress.
Mike Hopkins, the Head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios The next phase in the legend of 007 will be a thrilling experience for fans around the globe.
Warren Carrigan writes on X. “I don’t think I liked the latest #JamesBond movies, but this is still a mixed feeling for me.” “I hope this is a return of movies more thrilling and less dull than the Craig-era.”
Davina Connector writing X “Love this! Amazon’s James Bond franchise will certainly be a fascinating one to watch!
Barbara Broccoli: I have dedicated my life to maintaining the incredible legacy Cubby Broccoli left for Michael and me. I’ve had the privilege of working with four of the most talented actors to have ever played 007 as well thousands of artists. As the end of No Time To Die “With Michael leaving the film industry, it’s time for me to concentrate on other projects.”
Future Outlook of the James Bond Series
The future of James Bond is a topic of endless speculation. While no casting or production news has been made for the next film, it remains a popular subject. This includes the question of who will play 007 in the series and the direction that the franchise might take under Amazon’s leadership.