Why Amazon Doesn’t Require a Shared Universe for James Bond

Overview of the New James Bond Era

Amazon’s acquisition of the James Bond franchise heralds a transformative period post-Daniel Craig.
Concerns emerge that potential spin-offs and expanded universes could dilute the legacy of the iconic Bond brand.
Fans express apprehensions about the shift in creative oversight to Amazon and its implications for the franchise’s enduring appeal.

For long-time fans of the James Bond series, the news that 007 is poised to “live to die another day”is not unexpected. With the conclusion of Daniel Craig’s era in No Time To Die, the groundwork for the next installment of the James Bond saga began even before his departure from the role. Now, as the franchise enters a new chapter, anticipation builds for what lies ahead for the legendary spy.

Traditionally, Eon Productions has exercised strict control over Bond’s cinematic rights since the release of Dr. No in 1962, with Albert “Cubby” Broccoli at the helm for decades. Following his legacy, his daughter and stepson took charge starting in 1995. Amid swirling rumors concerning the production of Bond 26, it appears that Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson are handing over the reins to new leadership.

Amazon’s New Chapter for Bond

Daniel Craig as James Bond in No Time to Die

In a surprising move, Amazon MGM declared that it now possesses creative authority over the James Bond legacy. This shift comes after a period of stagnation following the release of No Time To Die. An article from the Wall Street Journal indicated that Barbara Broccoli felt uneasy about being referred to Bond as merely “content”by Amazon Studios’ Jennifer Salke.

Amazon’s track record with franchises like The Lord of the Rings and spin-offs such as The Boys demonstrate its commitment to evolving and expanding intellectual properties. There are also discussions regarding an interconnected universe for its Tomb Raider series, hinting at broader ambitions for crossovers.

Despite past conversations around a shared James Bond universe and potential spin-offs, the Amazon deal raises concerns among Bond aficionados about the dilution of the franchise’s essence through ancillary projects or character-focused origins that might not involve Bond himself. Veteran Bond actor Timothy Dalton, speaking to The Telegraph, poignantly shared his apprehensions:

“I have no idea what Amazon would do with it, and I have no idea what the relationship of Amazon to the Broccolis will be. But it is a damn fine series of movies. I was watching it when I was young, we all were. It’s been part of our lives, so anything that threatens it is kind of sad.”

Dalton emphasized that the franchise’s stability has relied on experienced leadership, even if not every installment met the diverse tastes of its audience.

Exploring Previous Attempts at a Shared Bond Universe

Although Amazon MGM has not disclosed specific plans for the 007 franchise, it is not the first time the notion of a shared ‘Bondiverse’ has surfaced. Previous attempts met resistance from the Broccoli family, but the landscape may be shifting. In 2021, Shawn Robbins, Chief Analyst at Boxoffice Pro, articulated growing interest in a cinematic universe:

“The James Bond series remains under control of the Broccoli family, who have already confirmed it will remain a theatrical-first property going forward. To do anything differently would severely undermine 007’s worth. Amazon could, however, expand the brand into potential streaming branches that tie into the greater film universe.”

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos’s enthusiasm for “content”was evident shortly after the deal announcement, as he engaged fans on social media to discuss their ideas for the next Bond. Such an approach raises questions about fan influence on the series, deviating from the Broccoli family’s traditionally protective stewardship of the franchise.

Historically, Bond has seen various iterations and spin-offs, with prominent actors like Sean Connery, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig contributing to its rich legacy. Moreover, the 1967 version of Casino Royale featuring David Niven highlighted corporate tussles in securing Bond’s rights, while attempts to launch films around characters like Halle Berry’s Jinx have repeatedly been overshadowed by franchise reboots.

There’s an untapped reservoir of James Bond literary works that could be explored, including novels like The Moneypenny Diaries and Charlie Higson’s Young Bond series. With the forthcoming The Q Mysteries slated for release in Autumn 2025, it suggests opportunities for new narratives beyond traditional movies.

Interestingly, Ian Fleming once proposed a television series titled Murder on Wheels. Although it never materialized, its premise eventually found life in Anthony Horowitz’s 2015 novel Trigger Mortis.

Amazon has ventured into spin-offs before, as seen with Brian Cox hosting 007: Road to a Million, a unique take on the Bond universe that some believe could showcase Cox for a potential future role as M. The prospect of reviving James Bond Jr., inspired by contemporary trends, might also engage younger audiences while keeping the franchise vibrant.

As the franchise braces for significant changes, it remains to be seen how Bond will evolve under new stewardship. Barbara Broccoli hinted that the next 007 actor should be in his 30s, capable of carrying the role through the next decade. However, with her diminishing control, such parameters might shift. Could we witness a revival of the idea that ‘James Bond’ is more than just a name, but a legacy passed through generations? Whatever the outcome, with 2025 poised to be the longest gap between Bond films, fans will be eagerly anticipating the iconic arrival back on screens.

Source & Images