Amazon Takes the Wheel: What’s Next for the James Bond Franchise?
Published On: February 23rd, 2025
The James Bond franchise, one of cinema’s most enduring and lucrative properties, is entering a new era. In a landmark deal announced last week, Amazon MGM Studios has gained creative control of the 007 franchise, marking a seismic shift in the series’ 60-year history. For the first time, the Broccoli family, who have shepherded the franchise since its inception, are stepping back, leaving Amazon MGM to chart the future of the iconic British spy. This move has sparked widespread speculation about the direction of the franchise, the frequency of future films, and the quality of what’s to come.
A new era for 007
The deal, which forms a joint venture between Amazon MGM and longtime Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, grants the streaming giant creative control while allowing the Broccolis to retain an ownership stake. This arrangement ends the family’s near-total authority over the franchise, which they have guarded fiercely since Albert “Cubby” Broccoli first brought Bond to the big screen in 1962’s Dr. No.
The transition comes at a pivotal moment for the franchise. Daniel Craig’s final outing as Bond in 2021’s No Time to Die left the series in limbo, with no clear successor, script, or director in place. Amazon, which acquired MGM in 2022 for $8.5 billion, has been eager to capitalize on its investment. However, the Broccolis’ meticulous approach to development—often taking years between films—has clashed with Amazon’s desire for faster output. This tension reportedly led to friction between the two parties, with the Broccolis resisting Amazon’s push to expand the franchise into streaming spinoffs and cinematic universes.
What does this mean for Bond’s future?
With Amazon at the helm, the Bond franchise is likely to undergo significant changes. The most immediate question is who will replace Daniel Craig as 007. Speculation has run rampant, with names like Henry Cavill, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and James Norton frequently mentioned. With that in mind, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos even took to social media to crowdsource suggestions, signaling a more open and fan-driven approach to casting.
Amazon’s influence could also lead to a more expansive Bond universe. While the Broccolis focused exclusively on feature films, Amazon may explore streaming series, spinoffs, and even origin stories for characters like Moneypenny or Q. This approach aligns with the current trend of building interconnected franchises, as seen with Marvel and Star Wars. However, it remains to be seen whether fans will embrace a more fragmented Bond universe or if the series will lose its unique identity in the process.
Quality and frequency of future films
One of the biggest concerns surrounding Amazon’s takeover is whether the quality of Bond films will suffer. The Broccolis’ deliberate approach ensured that each installment felt like an event, with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on cinematic spectacle. Amazon, on the other hand, has struggled to produce blockbuster hits that resonate with audiences. While the company has found success with smaller, critically acclaimed films like Manchester by the Sea, its big-budget tentpoles, such as Red One, have yet to make a significant impact.
That said, the frequency of Bond films is very likely to increase under Amazon. The Broccolis typically released a new Bond movie every three to five years, but Amazon’s need to maximize its investment could lead to a faster turnaround. This raises questions about whether the franchise can maintain its high standards under a more accelerated production schedule.
Speculation and challenges ahead
The announcement has sparked a flurry of speculation about the franchise’s future. Some industry analysts believe Amazon will take a more modern approach, potentially addressing contemporary issues like climate change or artificial intelligence through its villains. Others hope the series will return to its roots, emphasizing the fun and escapism that defined earlier Bond films.
However, challenges remain. The Bond franchise is a cultural institution, and any misstep could alienate its loyal fanbase. Amazon will need to strike a delicate balance between innovation and tradition, ensuring that the series evolves without losing its essence. The company’s decision to appoint a dedicated executive to oversee the franchise, similar to Kevin Feige’s role at Marvel, could be crucial in maintaining quality control.
A fond farewell to the Broccolis
The Broccolis’ departure marks the end of an era. Under their stewardship, the Bond franchise became a global phenomenon, grossing over $7.8 billion across 25 films. Their commitment to preserving the character’s legacy earned them widespread respect, even as their cautious approach occasionally frustrated studio partners. As they step back to focus on other projects, their influence on the franchise will be deeply missed.
In the words of Timothy Dalton, who played Bond in the late 1980s, “It’s sad that [Cubby Broccoli] is not with us anymore. He was well in charge of the show, and that’s not so anymore.” Dalton expressed hope that Amazon would honor the franchise’s heritage while bringing fresh energy to the series. Whether the next 007 will deliver cat food or save the world remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the world will be watching.