Amazon in major James Bond update as they sign up big names from Spider-Man: Homecoming and Harry Potter for new film
AMAZON Studios are getting hard at work with the next James Bond project and have attached two big Cinema names to the next movie.
The production studio, which recently won the right to the iconic Bond franchise, have unveiled the two producers they have brought on board to manage the next flick.
Both Amy Pascal and David Heyman have been brought in by Amazon as work gets underway on the next movie.
Amy is best known for her work on the Spider Man franchise whilst David produced all eight Harry Potter movies as well as three Fantastic Beasts movies.
The duo will be taking over from Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Brocoli after 35 years at being at the helm of making the movies.
The new decision comes following Amazon’s takeover of the brand.
Speaking of the new appointments and what is to come, Amazon MGM Studios’ Head of Film, Courtenay Valenti, said: “We are approaching every creative decision with James Bond, which Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson have so masterfully steered, with the greatest sense of responsibility.
“Part of an elite group of producers who have developed and managed massive film franchises to box office success and critical acclaim, Amy Pascal and David Heyman are two of the most accomplished, experienced, and respected film producers in our industry.
“We are honored to be working with them on James Bond’s next chapter and are excited to deliver to global audiences storytelling that upholds the impeccable legacy of this beloved character.”
In a joint statement, David and Amy said: “James Bond is one of the most iconic characters in the history of cinema.
“We are humbled to follow in the footsteps of Barbara Broccoli and Michael Wilson who made so many extraordinary films and honored and excited to keep the spirit of Bond very much alive as he embarks on his next adventure.”
Before giving up ownership of the popular film franchise, 007’s stewards Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson insisted the suave spy has to retain his nationality and gender.
Ms Broccoli, who took over the Bond brand from company Eon Productions alongside Mr Wilson in 1995, made the arrangement before she agreed to sell the rights to Amazon in a £770million deal.
Insiders have hit back at fears the streaming giant – owned by Jeff Bezos – will turn Bond “woke”.
An insider told the Mail on Sunday: “Amazon is committed to keeping the spirit of Bond alive and that means he has to be British or from the Commonwealth – and he has to be male.”
They added: “Jeff is a massive Bond fan and while he’s excited to see how Amazon can take the franchise forward there are certain things which are sacrosanct.
But, Bond’s race is still on the table, with the source adding: “But certain things are up for discussion, like whether Bond should be played by a man of colour.”
Former 007 actor Pierce Brosnan, 71, told The Sunday Telegraph it is a “given” the next actor to take on the role should be British after the success of Daniel Craig, 57.
The Irish actor said: “I thought it was coming for some time I guess, but I think it was the right decision for Barbara and Michael.
“It takes great courage from them to let go, they will still have a say in matters, I hope that [Amazon] handles the work and the characters with dignity and imagination and respect.”
Timeline of James Bond actors
Over the years there have been seven actors who have played 007.
The first ever James Bond film was in 1962, and this is who has played the lead role over the years:
- Sean Connery – The late star was the first ever actor to play Bond, and reprised the role for seven movies.
- George Lazenby – The star only played Bond once, but was the youngest actor to ever play the spy.
- Roger Moore – The late movie star spent 12 years making seven films in the famous franchise.
- Timothy Dalton – The smooth actor took over from Roger Moore and appeared in The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.
- Pierce Brosnan – The handsome star played Bond for four movies from 1995 to 2002.
- Daniel Craig – The British star was the first blonde James Bond and the sixth actor to win the role in 2005.