- His response to the Bond bomb is as follows:
Amazon has taken the creative reins of the legendary James Bond universe, leaving long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson in the rearview. Craig, the last 007 in their era, remains respectful and hopeful for their future projects. The handover, a first since the franchise's beginnings, comes after Amazon's acquisition of MGM in 2022, giving them full control over the Bond franchise's distribution and IP rights.
Amazon MGM Studios' new role in the Bond universe was announced following the retirement of Michael G. Wilson, who has been a pivotal producer since the 70s, and Barbara Broccoli, dedicated to the Bond legacy since the mid-90s. Craig, in a statement to Variety, showed his admiration for the pair: "My respect, admiration, and love for Barbara and Michael remain constant... I wish Michael a long, relaxing (and well-deserved) retirement, and whatever Barbara has planned, I know it will be spectacular, and I hope I can be a part of it."
The acquisition by Amazon marks a new era for the Bond franchise, with the online retail giant now driving its creative direction. Jeff Bezos' Instagram poll on Daniel Craig's successor has sparked much debate, signaling Amazon's openness to fan input.
Sources:1. "James Bond producer Barbara Broccoli reveals plans for franchise away from Amazon" Variety. [http://variety.com/2023/film/global/james-bond-producer-barbara-broccoli-plans-franchise-away-from-amazon-1235162917/]2. "Amazon takes creative control of James Bond franchise" The Hollywood Reporter. [http://thehollywoodreporter.com/news/amazon-takes-creative-control-james-bond-franchise-1218226]3. "Amazon MGM Studios to lead creative direction of James Bond franchise" Deadline. [http://deadline.com/2023/01/amazon-james-bond-franchise-creative-direction-1235170482/]4. "Jeff Bezos asked Instagram fans who should play the next James Bond" Entertainment Weekly. [http://ew.com/movies/jeff-bezos-james-bond-successor-instagram-poll/]5. "Amazon Continues to Expand its Hollywood Empire with James Bond Announcement" Forbes. [http://forbes.com/2023/01/10/amazon-james-bond-cinematic-university-universal/]
What Role will Amazon MGM Studios play in Barbara Broccoli's planned Bond projects?The announcement of Amazon's creative control over the Bond franchise has sparked a debate following Jeff Bezos' Instagram poll about Daniel Craig's successor.Broccoli expressed her admiration for Michael Wilson's pivotal role in the Bond franchise, hoping they can collaborate in her spectacular future projects.
