Tag: no time to die

  • Best Jeffrey Wright Movies

    Jeffrey Wright in 'Highest 2 Lowest'. Photo Credit: David Lee.
    Jeffrey Wright in ‘Highest 2 Lowest’. Photo Credit: David Lee.

    For over 30 years Jeffrey Wright has been delivering complex and compelling performances on screen.

    The actor first gained attention for his title role in ‘Basquiat,’ and since has appeared in such popular movies as ‘Shaft,’ ‘Ali,’ ‘Syriana,’ ‘The French Dispatch,’ ‘The Batman,’ Daniel Craig‘s James Bond series, and ‘The Hunger Games‘ franchise.

    Recently he has appeared in Wes Anderson‘s ‘Asteroid City,’ Netflix‘s ‘Rustin,’ and ‘American Fiction,’ for which he has received an Oscar-nomination for Best Actor.

    His latest film, ‘Highest 2 Lowest‘, which pairs him with Denzel Washington and director Spike Lee, opens in theaters on August 15th before being available to stream on Apple TV+ on September 5th.

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    In honor of his new film, Moviefone is counting down the 25 best movies of Jeffrey Wright’s long and impressive career, including ‘Highest 2 Lowest’.

    Let’s begin!


    25. ‘Quantum of Solace‘ (2008)

    (L to R) David Harbour and Jeffrey Wright in 'Quantum of Solace'. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.
    (L to R) David Harbour and Jeffrey Wright in ‘Quantum of Solace’. Photo: Sony Pictures Releasing.

    Quantum of Solace continues the adventures of James Bond (Daniel Craig) after ‘Casino Royale.’ Betrayed by Vesper, the woman he loved, 007 fights the urge to make his latest mission personal. Pursuing his determination to uncover the truth, Bond and M (Judy Dench) interrogate Mr. White, who reveals that the organization that blackmailed Vesper is far more complex and dangerous than anyone had imagined.

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    24. ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1‘ (2014)

    Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) reluctantly becomes the symbol of a mass rebellion against the autocratic Capitol.

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    23. ‘The Manchurian Candidate‘ (2004)

    Years after his squad was ambushed during the Gulf War, Major Ben Marco (Denzel Washington) finds himself having terrible nightmares. He begins to doubt that his fellow squad-mate Sergeant Raymond Shaw (Liev Schreiber), now a vice-presidential candidate, is the hero he remembers him being. As Marco’s doubts deepen, Shaw’s political power grows, and, when Marco finds a mysterious implant embedded in his back, the memory of what really happened begins to return.

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    22. ‘Lady in the Water‘ (2006)

    Apartment building superintendent Cleveland Heep (Paul Giamatti) rescues what he thinks is a young woman (Bryce Dallas Howard) from the pool he maintains. When he discovers that she is actually a character from a bedtime story who is trying to make the journey back to her home, he works with his tenants to protect his new friend from the creatures that are determined to keep her in our world.

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    21. ‘W.‘ (2008)

    The story of the eventful life of George W. Bush (Josh Brolin), his struggles and triumphs, how he found both his wife and his faith—and the critical days leading up to his decision to invade Iraq.

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    20. ‘Source Code‘ (2011)

    Jeffrey Wright as Dr. Rutledge in 'Source Code.' Photo: Summit Entertainment.
    Jeffrey Wright as Dr. Rutledge in ‘Source Code.’ Photo: Summit Entertainment.

    When decorated soldier Captain Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up in the body of an unknown man, he discovers he’s part of a mission to find the bomber of a Chicago commuter train.

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    19. ‘Broken City‘ (2013)

    In a broken city rife with injustice, ex-cop Billy Taggart (Mark Wahlberg) seeks redemption and revenge after being double-crossed and then framed by its most powerful figure, the mayor (Russell Crowe). Billy’s relentless pursuit of justice, matched only by his streetwise toughness, makes him an unstoppable force – and the mayor’s worst nightmare.

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    18. ‘The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2‘ (2015)

    With the nation of Panem in a full scale war, Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) confronts President Snow (Donald Sutherland) in the final showdown. Teamed with a group of her closest friends – including Gale (Liam Hemsworth), Finnick (Sam Claflin), and Peeta (Josh Hutcherson) – Katniss goes off on a mission with the unit from District 13 as they risk their lives to stage an assassination attempt on President Snow who has become increasingly obsessed with destroying her. The mortal traps, enemies, and moral choices that await Katniss will challenge her more than any arena she faced in The Hunger Games.

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    17. ‘The Laundromat‘ (2019)

    When her idyllic vacation takes an unthinkable turn, Ellen Martin (Meryl Streep) begins investigating a fake insurance policy, only to find herself down a rabbit hole of questionable dealings that can be linked to a Panama City law firm and its vested interest in helping the world’s wealthiest citizens amass larger fortunes.

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    16. ‘The Hunger Games: Catching Fire‘ (2013)

    Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a “Victor’s Tour” of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow (Donald Sutherland) prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) – a competition that could change Panem forever.

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    15. ‘Asteroid City‘ (2023)

    (L to R) Fisher Stevens, Jeffrey Wright, Tony Revolori, and Bob Balaban in director Wes Anderson's 'Asteroid City,' a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Pop. 87 Productions/Focus Features.
    (L to R) Fisher Stevens, Jeffrey Wright, Tony Revolori, and Bob Balaban in director Wes Anderson’s ‘Asteroid City,’ a Focus Features release. Credit: Courtesy of Pop. 87 Productions/Focus Features.

    The itinerary of a Junior Stargazer/Space Cadet convention (organized to bring together students and parents from across the country for fellowship and scholarly competition) is spectacularly disrupted by world-changing events.

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    14. ‘Syriana‘ (2005)

    The Middle Eastern oil industry is the backdrop of this tense drama, which weaves together numerous story lines. Bennett Holiday (Wright) is an American lawyer in charge of facilitating a dubious merger of oil companies, while Bryan Woodman (Matt Damon), a Switzerland-based energy analyst, experiences both personal tragedy and opportunity during a visit with Arabian royalty. Meanwhile, veteran CIA agent Bob Barnes (George Clooney) uncovers an assassination plot with unsettling origins.

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    13. ‘O.G.‘ (2018)

    Louis Menkins (Wright) is five weeks away from being released after 26 years in prison. He is faced with the decision to put his own release at risk in order to protect a young man named Beecher from growing gang controversies.

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    12. ‘The Ides of March‘ (2011)

    Dirty tricks stand to soil an ambitious young press spokesman’s (Ryan Gosling) idealism in a cutthroat presidential campaign where ‘victory’ is relative.

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    11. ‘No Time to Die‘ (2021)

    Bond (Daniel Craig) has left active service and is enjoying a tranquil life in Jamaica. His peace is short-lived when his old friend Felix Leiter (Wright) from the CIA turns up asking for help. The mission to rescue a kidnapped scientist turns out to be far more treacherous than expected, leading Bond onto the trail of a mysterious villain armed with dangerous new technology.

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    10. ‘Shaft‘ (2000)

    (L to R) Samuel L. Jackson and Jeffrey Wright in 2000's 'Shaft'. Photo: Paramount Pictures.
    (L to R) Samuel L. Jackson and Jeffrey Wright in 2000’s ‘Shaft’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

    New York police detective John Shaft (Samuel L. Jackson) arrests Walter Wade Jr. (Christian Bale) for a racially motivated slaying. But the only eyewitness disappears, and Wade jumps bail for Switzerland. Two years later Wade returns to face trial, confident his money and influence will get him acquitted — especially since he’s paid a drug kingpin (Wright) to kill the witness.

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    9. ‘Ali‘ (2001)

    In 1964, a brash, new pro boxer, fresh from his Olympic gold medal victory, explodes onto the scene: Cassius Clay (Will Smith). Bold and outspoken, he cuts an entirely new image for African Americans in sport with his proud public self-confidence and his unapologetic belief that he is the greatest boxer of all time. Yet at the top of his game, both Ali’s personal and professional lives face the ultimate test.

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    8. ‘Only Lovers Left Alive‘ (2014)

    A depressed musician (Tom Hiddleston) reunites with his lover (Tilda Swinton) in the desolate streets of Detroit. Though their romance has endured several centuries, it is tested by the arrival of her capricious and unpredictable younger sister (Mia Wasikowska).

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    7. ‘The French Dispatch‘ (2021)

    The staff of an American magazine based in France puts out its last issue, with stories featuring an artist sentenced to life imprisonment, student riots, and a kidnapping resolved by a chef.

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    6. ‘Rustin‘ (2023)

    Activist Bayard Rustin (Colman Domingo) faces racism and homophobia as he helps change the course of Civil Rights history by orchestrating the 1963 March on Washington.

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    5. ‘Highest 2 Lowest‘ (2025)

    Denzel Washington in 'Highest 2 Lowest'. Photo Credit: David Lee.
    Denzel Washington in ‘Highest 2 Lowest’. Photo Credit: David Lee.

    When a titan music mogul (Denzel Washington), widely known as having the “best ears in the business”, is targeted with a ransom plot, he is jammed up in a life-or-death moral dilemma.

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    4. ‘Basquiat‘ (1996)

    The brief life of Jean Michel Basquiat (Wright), a world renowned New York street artist struggling with fame, drugs and his identity.

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    3. ‘Casino Royale‘ (2006)

    Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen), a banker to the world’s terrorists, is scheduled to participate in a high-stakes poker game in Montenegro, where he intends to use his winnings to establish his financial grip on the terrorist market. M (Judi Dench) sends Bond (Daniel Craig) on his maiden mission as a 00 Agent—to attend this game and prevent Le Chiffre from winning. With the help of Vesper Lynd (Eva Green) and Felix Leiter (Wright), Bond enters the most important poker game in his already dangerous career.

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    2. ‘The Batman‘ (2022)

    From Warner Bros. Pictures comes Matt Reeves’ ‘The Batman,’ starring Robert Pattinson in the dual role of Gotham City’s vigilante detective and his alter ego, reclusive billionaire Bruce Wayne.

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    1. ‘American Fiction‘ (2023)

    Jeffrey Wright stars as Thelonious "Monk" Ellison in writer/director Cord Jefferson’s 'American Fiction,' an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Claire Folger. © 2023 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
    Jeffrey Wright stars as Thelonious “Monk” Ellison in writer/director Cord Jefferson’s ‘American Fiction,’ an Orion Pictures Release. Photo credit: Claire Folger. © 2023 Orion Releasing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

    ‘American Fiction’ is Cord Jefferson’s hilarious directorial debut, which confronts our culture’s obsession with reducing people to outrageous stereotypes. Jeffrey Wright stars as Monk, a frustrated novelist who’s fed up with the establishment profiting from “Black” entertainment that relies on tired and offensive tropes. To prove his point, Monk uses a pen name to write an outlandish “Black” book of his own, a book that propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the madness he claims to disdain.

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  • Denis Villeneuve Is A Solid Choice To Direct New Bond Movie

    Denis Villeneuve arrives on the red carpet of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Credit/Provider: Etienne Laurent / The Academy. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.
    Denis Villeneuve arrives on the red carpet of the 97th Oscars® at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on Sunday, March 2, 2025. Credit/Provider: Etienne Laurent / The Academy. Copyright: ©A.M.P.A.S.

    Preview: 

    • Denis Villeneuve is directing the new James Bond movie, which doesn’t immediately sound like the perfect fit. 
    • As a lifelong Bond fan, choosing Denis Villeneuve puts the future of the franchise in good hands. 
    • If nothing else, Denis Villeneuve will make the most visually stunning James Bond movie.

    It was recently announced that Denis Villeneuve is going to be directing the new James Bond film, after control was handed over to Amazon MGM. While the internet is debating on if he is right for the job or not, there are a lot of things that make him the perfect choice, but a couple concerns as well.

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    Not a lot is known about the next film, including which actor will be portraying the title character. Denis Villeneuve is busy with the upcoming ‘Dune: Messiah‘ which releases in December 2026 meaning it might be a while until we hear more details about this movie. Chances are the new 007 movie will not start filming until ‘Dune: Messiah’ is in post-production, although the script and casting should be completed before then.

    Fans are looking at a late 2026 or early 2027 release at the earliest. That definately feels like a long time after 2021’s ‘No Time To Die‘.

    Related Article: ‘Dune’s Denis Villeneuve to Direct the Next James Bond Movie for Amazon

    Denis Villeneuve Has A Love For The Franchise

    James Bond (Daniel Craig) prepares to shoot in 'No Time To Die,' a Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film.
    James Bond (Daniel Craig) prepares to shoot in ‘No Time To Die,’ a Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film.

    Probably the most exciting aspect of this decision is that Denis Villeneuve has admitted that he grew up watching the James Bond films. They hold a special place in his heart and he went so far as to call them sacred territory so he knows what he needs to accomplish. And if anyone can do it, it is him.

    Often when a director is passionate about a franchise before they are welcomed into it, they want nothing more than to create a perfect addition to it. This is something that Denis Villeneuve has dreamed of, making it unlikely he would do anything that would anger the fans.

    He knows what works and what doesn’t in a James Bond movie, and he is certainly willing to put in the work. No one has ever claimed that Denis Villeneuve doesn’t know what he is doing, so odds are he will put everything he has into making the next James Bond movie something special. Why take on the responsibility of something like this, especially a franchise you love, and phone it in?

    This Could Be The Most Visually Stunning Bond Movie With Denis Villeneuve At The Helm

    (Left) Director Denis Villeneuve on the 'Dune: Part Two' global press tour. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. (Right) Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012's 'Skyfall.' Photo: Sony Pictures.
    (Left) Director Denis Villeneuve on the ‘Dune: Part Two’ global press tour. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. (Right) Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012’s ‘Skyfall.’ Photo: Sony Pictures.

    With Denis Villeneuve in the director’s chair for the new James Bond movie, there is a good chance this is going to be the most beautiful of the franchise. As exciting as this is, here is where one of the concerns comes in. No one is doubting that with Denis Villeneuve involved this movie is going to look beautiful, as we have seen him win multiple awards for visual effects and cinematography, but you need more than that for a successful film.

    His visual style doesn’t exactly scream James Bond. At least not at first thought. Denis Villeneuve is known for sweeping landscapes, desaturated tones, and extremely well done special effects. These are all things that the new James Bond movie could thrive off of, but it might take long time fans a bit longer to get used to it.

    Blade Runner 2049‘ is a great example. The film might have been a box office disappointment, but it is also applauded for its incredible visuals and world building. It found its audience at home after some were skeptical about Denis Villeneuve being at the helm and a need for another movie.

    The new James Bond movie will not have this problem, however, as it is already a well established franchise. Odds are fans will be showing up in theaters no matter what, although that also depends slightly on who the next James Bond actor is.

    Denis Villeneuve Is Widely Considered One Of Today’s Best Working Directors

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    (L to R) Timothee Chalamet and Director/Writer/Producer Denis Villeneuve on the set of Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures’ action adventure ‘Dune: Part Two,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release. Photo Credit: Niko Tavernise. Copyright: © 2024 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Of course there were fans of ‘Dune‘ before Denis Villeneuve’s films, but he introduced it to so many people all around the world in a way that caused them to explore the world further: reading the books, seeing the previous film, and so on. His work drew people in and created new fans, which is something that he could do for the James Bond franchise as well, something Amazon MGM surely thought about.

    Denis Villeneuve has a way of adapting and growing already established projects, like ‘Dune’ and ‘Blade Runner‘. He often remains faithful enough to the original, but still adds something new and exciting. He knows how to build tension and create worlds and characters that will leave viewers mesmerized.

    James Bond already has a well established fan base, but it still needs the next movie to be good, well-respected, and an entertaining watch. Denis Villeneuve is going to bring his A-game because of his love for the character. He is well versed in the films so there is no need to think he will change what makes James Bond so beloved. Surely we are all in good hands.

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 'Casino Royale.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

    List of James Bond Movies:

    Buy James Bond Movies On Amazon

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  • Amazon MGM Gains Creative Control of Bond Franchise

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012's 'Skyfall.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012’s ‘Skyfall.’

    Preview:

    • James Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson are ceding some control of the character.
    • Amazon MGM Studios will have more of a say on future plans.
    • The producers will still have some input going forward, but not what they had before.

    In his decades-long cinematic career (and before that, in the pages of author Ian Fleming’s books), James Bond has battled powerful villains, saved the world and gotten out of many a sticky situation using a combination of charm, wits, weaponry, gadgetry, or some combination of them all.

    But now it would appear that the world’s greatest secret agent –– even if he can’t seem to stop introducing himself by name to all and sundry –– has come across something even he can’t defeat: the ever-IP-hungry behemoth that is Amazon and, to some degree, the modern world, which makes his brand increasingly difficult to figure out.

    In a shocking turn of events, Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the longtime stalwart step-sibling powerhouse producers behind the last couple of decades of Bond films, are relinquishing control of the franchise and handing more creative decision-making to Amazon MGM studios.

    It’s perhaps not as surprising as it might sound, though: In 2022, Amazon bought MGM for $8.5 billion, acquiring a vast catalog with more than 4,000 films and 17,000 TV shows alongside the rights to distribute all of the James Bond films and to develop spin-offs (such as the frankly less-than thrilling reality competition show ‘007: Road to a Million,’ which saw Bond fans answering trivia questions –– posed by Brian Cox, no less –– in search of cash prizes).

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    But a key part of that deal was that the producers kept creative control of the character, deciding on who would play the main role, hiring directors and other key choices, while stopping ideas they didn’t approve of.

    Yet it has seemed as though the pair were in something of a creative downbeat following the departure of Daniel Craig as Bond, with the character killed off in 2021’s ‘No Time to Die’ and little sign of forward movement.

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    Here’s what Broccoli previously told The Guardian on the past changes:

    “I go back to ‘GoldenEye’ when everyone was saying ‘the cold war is over, the wall is over, Bond is dead, no need for Bond, the whole world’s at peace and now there’s no villains’ –– and boy was that wrong! Daniel gave us the ability to mine the emotional life of the character… and also the world was ready for it.”

    And her comments on where they are with the next phase of the franchise from 2023:

    “I think these movies reflect the time they are in, and there’s a big, big road ahead reinventing it for the next chapter, and we haven’t even begun with that. Our focus is making the feature films. When we get going on a Bond movie it takes our full attention for three or four years so that’s our focus. We make the Bond movies for the big theatrical screen and everything about the Bond movies is for audiences to see around the world on that format, so we’ve not wanted to do television.”

    That seems likely to change going forward, as Amazon would clearly like to exploit new avenues.

    As per details of the historic new agreement, Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson and Broccoli have formed a new joint venture to house the James Bond intellectual property rights. The three parties will remain co-owners of the iconic franchise but Amazon MGM will have creative control.

    Related Article: Bond Producer Barbara Broccoli Talks About the Challenges of Finding the Next 007

    Bond Shocker: The Studio and Producers Speak

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 'Casino Royale.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

    Here’s Amazon MGM’s statement on the new deal from Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios:

    “Since his theatrical introduction over 60 years ago, James Bond has been one of the most iconic characters in filmed entertainment. We are grateful to the late Albert R. Broccoli and Harry Saltzman for bringing James Bond to movie theatres around the world, and to Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli for their unyielding dedication and their role in continuing the legacy of the franchise that is cherished by legions of fans worldwide. We are honored to continue this treasured heritage and look forward to ushering in the next phase of the legendary 007 for audiences around the world.”

    This was Wilson’s comment:

    “With my 007 career spanning nearly 60 incredible years, I am stepping back from producing the James Bond films to focus on art and charitable projects. Therefore, Barbara and I agree, it is time for our trusted partner, Amazon MGM Studios, to lead James Bond into the future.”

    And finally, most crucially, Barbara Broccoli:

    “My life has been dedicated to maintaining and building upon the extraordinary legacy that was handed to Michael and me by our father, producer Cubby Broccoli. I have had the honour of working closely with four of the tremendously talented actors who have played 007 and thousands of wonderful artists within the industry. With the conclusion of ‘No Time to Die’ and Michael retiring from the films, I feel it is time to focus on my other projects.”

    Broccoli and Wilson stepping back is perhaps less of a surprise these days since she in particular has expressed frustration with the Amazon deal. And this way, the duo will have some small say in the future, but also enjoy what is surely a healthy payday.

    Bond: The Future?

    James Bond (Daniel Craig) prepares to shoot in 'No Time To Die,' a Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film.
    James Bond (Daniel Craig) prepares to shoot in ‘No Time To Die,’ a Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film.

    While Amazon might say as much as possible about respecting the franchise (and certainly has a powerhouse team in place to spur development), fans will naturally worry that there will be a multitude of spin-offs to dilute the idea of Bond.

    Bond, as a character, though, will always be compelling, especially as the Craig era proved you can evolve it to fit the changing times.

    Still, can ‘M:I6 Babies’ be too far off?

    (L to R) James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) drive through Matera, Italy in 'No Time To Die,'
    (L to R) James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) drive through Matera, Italy in ‘No Time To Die,’

    List of James Bond Movies:

    Buy James Bond Movies On Amazon

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  • Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Tom Hardy Starring in ‘Blood on Snow’

    (Left) Aaron Taylor-Johnson in 'The Fall Guy,' directed by David Leitch. (Right) Tom Hardy stars as Johnny in director Jeff Nichols' 'The Bikeriders,' a Focus Features release. Credit: Kyle Kaplan/Focus Features. © 2024 Focus Features, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
    (Left) Aaron Taylor-Johnson in ‘The Fall Guy,’ directed by David Leitch. (Right) Tom Hardy stars as Johnny in director Jeff Nichols’ ‘The Bikeriders,’ a Focus Features release. Credit: Kyle Kaplan/Focus Features. © 2024 Focus Features, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

    Preview:

    • Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Tom Hardy will appear in ‘Blood on Snow’.
    • It adapts Jo Nesbø’s 2015 novel.
    • ‘Beasts of No Nation’s Cary Joji Fukunaga is in the director’s chair.

    Novelist Jo Nesbø’s work has been a frequent source for movies and TV series during the last decade in particular. But even when utilizing his particular blend of frosty climes and dangerous crimes, the results haven’t always worked out the way the filmmakers intended –– witness the misfiring 2017 adaptation of serial killer thriller ‘The Snowman’.

    So Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Tom Hardy will be hoping that their new movie, ‘Blood on Snow,’ falls into a more positive category. According to Deadline, they’re attached to star in the new crime thriller, which has ‘No Time to Die’s Cary Joji Fukunaga on board to direct.

    Related Article: Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes on for ‘28 Years Later’

    What’s the story of ‘Blood on Snow’?

    Tom Hardy stars as Johnny in director Jeff Nichols' 'The Bikeriders,' a Focus Features release.
    Tom Hardy stars as Johnny in director Jeff Nichols’ ‘The Bikeriders,’ a Focus Features release. Credit: Kyle Kaplan/Focus Features. © 2024 Focus Features, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

    The ‘Blood on Snow’ narrative is set in 1970’s Oslo, where two rival gang leaders — Hoffman and the Fisherman (Hardy) —vie for control.

    Hoffman’s trusted hitman, Olav (Johnson), is a cold, efficient killer, perfect for the job. But beneath his ruthless exterior lies an unexpected intelligence and an unwavering moral code shaped by a complicated childhood.

    When Hoffman orders his own wife to be murdered, Olav’s principles clash with his loyalties. Instead of pulling the trigger, he hatches a scheme that makes him Hoffman’s next target and with nowhere safe to turn, Olav forms an uneasy alliance that places him at the heart of Oslo’s deadly gang war.

    Once a violent enforcer, Olav’s choice makes him an unlikely hero in a world where no good deed goes unpunished…

    Who else is working on the movie?

    Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Sergei Kravinoff / Kraven the Hunter in 'Kraven the Hunter.'
    Aaron Taylor-Johnson as Sergei Kravinoff / Kraven the Hunter in ‘Kraven the Hunter.’

    While Nesbø does write a fair amount of other projects (see below), he’s not usually found adapting his own books. Yet ‘Blood on Snow’ will see him doing exactly that, working alongside Ben Power to bring the novel’s story to screens.

    Hardy will also produce the movie via his company, Hardy Son & Baker, WME Independent and Range handling sales of the title at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival market, where it’s expected to be snapped up quickly given the talent involved.

    Taylor-Johnson, last seen in ‘The Fall Guy,’ steps up to lead Sony’s latest stab at a Marvel movie, starring in ‘Kraven the Hunter,’ which is due in theaters on December 13th. And before that, Hardy will be back in that Sony universe for ‘Venom: The Last Dance,’ which lands on October 25th.

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    What other Nesbø adaptations are in the works?

    There are a few Nesbø productions at different stages right now. The writer himself has created a new TV series based on his Harry Hole books, and that’s filming at the moment. He’s also written a series called ‘So Long, Marianne,’ which is in post-production.

    On the movie side, his short story ‘The Jealousy Man’ was adapted into a film called ‘Killer Heat’ and there are several other projects either written by him or based on his work in different stages of development.

    Venom in Columbia Pictures 'Venom: The Last Dance'. Photo Courtesy: Sony Pictures. ©2024 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
    Venom in Columbia Pictures ‘Venom: The Last Dance’. Photo Courtesy: Sony Pictures. ©2024 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

    Other Movies Similar to ‘Venom: The Last Dance’ and ‘Kraven the Hunter’:

    Buy ‘Venom’ Movies on Amazon

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  • Bond Producer Talks Developing New Film

    Daniel Craig with gun
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Skyfall.’

    Preview

    • The development of the next Bond film will take the next couple of years.
    • Producer Barbara Broccoli talked about the challenges of finding the right tone and actor.
    • Reality TV competition series ‘007: Road to a Million’ kicks off next month to help fans through the quiet period.

    It has been two years since Daniel Craig put down his Walter PPK and handed in his license to kill as –– spoiler alert for anyone who has yet to watch 2021’s ‘No Time to Die’ –– his take on secret agent James Bond went out in a missile-fueled blaze of glory.

    So of course, ever since Craig left the gig playing one of the most famous movie characters in big screen history, talk turned to the likely candidates who will next tackle it. Names who have popped up in the past include Idris Elba and Tom Hiddleston.

    The people in charge of those decisions are producers/franchise shepherds Barbara Broccoli and half-brother Michael G. Wilson. And according to Broccoli, the pair are taking their time to decide on the next Bond.

    Here’s what Broccoli told The Guardian on the past changes:

    “I go back to ‘GoldenEye’ when everyone was saying ‘the cold war is over, the wall is over, Bond is dead, no need for Bond, the whole world’s at peace and now there’s no villains’ –– and boy was that wrong! Daniel gave us the ability to mine the emotional life of the character… and also the world was ready for it.”

    And her comments on where they are with the next phase of the franchise:

    “I think these movies reflect the time they are in, and there’s a big, big road ahead reinventing it for the next chapter, and we haven’t even begun with that.”

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    What of James Bond TV series spin-offs?

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 'Casino Royale.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

    According to Broccoli, beyond one planned show (see below), there are no TV Bond series on the way (even if MGM owners Amazon might love it).

    Here’s what Broccoli said:

    “Our focus is making the feature films. When we get going on a Bond movie it takes our full attention for three or four years so that’s our focus. We make the Bond movies for the big theatrical screen and everything about the Bond movies is for audiences to see around the world on that format, so we’ve not wanted to do television.”

    So yes… We’ll have to wait for more big screen Bond. But there is something to help tide you over…

    Related Article: Brian Cox Puts Spy Wannabes Through Their Paces in the Trailer for ‘007: Road to a Million’

    What is the 007 reality competition show about?

    Brian Cox in Prime Video's '007: Road to a Million.'
    Brian Cox in Prime Video’s ‘007: Road to a Million.’ Credit: Jemma Cox. Copyright: Prime Video.

    While we wait for the next Bond film the producing duo are involved in a reality competition show tied to the franchise.

    In the show, nine pairs of everyday people are unleashed on an epic adventure through a series of James Bond-inspired challenges, to find questions hidden around the world, all for a shot at winning a life-changing £1 million prize (roughly $1,281 million).

    The Controller (Brian Cox) is the on-screen mastermind behind the game, he dictates where the pairs go, and what they must do and sets their questions. He watches on from the shadows following the pair’s every move, reveling as his often merciless and punishing plans unfold in front of him.

    In total, The Controller has hidden 10 questions around the world for each pair, who each have a chance of winning a £1 million.

    Find them, answer them, win £1 million… But it won’t be that easy!

    To reach these questions, the pairs face gut-wrenching Bond-inspired challenges which will push their physical strength and mental reserves to the limit. Each question is worth an increasing amount of money, if answered correctly, they bank the cash and continue to the next question, get it wrong their journey is over.

    From the wilds of the Scottish Highlands and the remote Chilean desert to the bustling streets of Venice and the luxurious Caribbean coastline of Jamaica. Packed with drama, epic locations, nail-biting challenges, and emotions running high, ‘007: Road to a Million’ promises a series that will have you on the edge of your seat.

    007: Road to a Million’ will be out on November 10th on Prime Video.

    James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) in 'No Time To Die.'
    (L to R) James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) drive through Matera, Italy in ‘No Time To Die,’ a DANJAQ and Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film. Credit: Nicola Dove. © 2019 DANJAQ, LLC AND MGM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    Other ‘James Bond’ Movies:

    Buy James Bond Movies On Amazon

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  • First Look at ‘007: Road to a Million’

    Happy James Bond Day to all who celebrate. We hope Mr. San(ta)guinetti has brought you lots of lovely gifts, such as watches with magnetic functions or a rocket jet pack.

    And if you’re wondering why October 5th is James Bond Day, that’s because it marks the date that first official Bond movie ‘Dr. No‘. was released in the U.K.

    Prime Video is bringing a present of its own, dropping the first brief trailer for Bond-based reality competition ‘007: Road to a Million’.

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    What is ‘007: Road to a Million’ all about?

    Brian Cox in Prime Video's '007: Road to a Million.'
    Brian Cox in Prime Video’s ‘007: Road to a Million.’ Credit: Jemma Cox. Copyright: Prime Video.

    Here’s the basic description for the show…

    Nine pairs of everyday people are unleashed on an epic adventure through a series of James Bond-inspired challenges, to find questions hidden around the world, all for a shot at winning a life-changing £1 million prize (roughly $1,281 million).

    The Controller (Brian Cox) is the on-screen mastermind behind the game, he dictates where the pairs go, and what they must do and sets their questions. He watches on from the shadows following the pair’s every move, reveling as his often merciless and punishing plans unfold in front of him.

    In total, The Controller has hidden 10 questions around the world for each pair, who each have a chance of winning a £1 million.

    Find them, answer them, win £1 million…But it won’t be that easy!

    Brian Cox in Prime Video's '007: Road to a Million.'
    Brian Cox in Prime Video’s ‘007: Road to a Million.’ Credit: Jemma Cox. Copyright: Prime Video.

    To reach these questions, the pairs face gut-wrenching Bond-inspired challenges which will push their physical strength and mental reserves to the limit. Each question is worth an increasing amount of money, if answered correctly, they bank the cash and continue to the next question, get it wrong their journey is over.

    From the wilds of the Scottish Highlands and the remote Chilean desert to the bustling streets of Venice and the luxurious Caribbean coastline of Jamaica. Packed with drama, epic locations, nail-biting challenges, and emotions running high, ‘007: Road to a Million’ promises a series that will have you on the edge of your seat.

    So, now you know.

    Related Article: Amazon and MGM Developing Reality Competition Series ‘007’s Road to a Million’

    How did ‘007: Road to a Million’ come about?

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 'Casino Royale.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

    We have Amazon’s purchase of MGM to thank for all of this. With that deal including rights to most of the Bond back catalogue, the company has naturally been exploring ways to utilize it for its Prime Video service.

    While that of course led to worries about low-rent spin-offs and endless prequel stories about a young Q at school, the famously protective Bond production team at EON (led by Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson) have worked to ensure that’s not the case. They have, however, consented to this Bond-adjacent reality series.

    Here’s what 72 Film boss David Glover had to say about the show when it was originally announced:

    “I first had this idea over three years ago. Dan Grabiner and the U.K. Originals team took it to a whole other level. To be working with Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli and the Bond franchise is a privilege and a dream come true.”

    We hope it’s entertaining, or Bond will be rolling in his grave (er, spoilers for ‘No Time to Die’).

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    When will ‘007: Road to a Million’ be on screens?

    Brian Cox in Prime Video's '007: Road to a Million.'
    Brian Cox in Prime Video’s ‘007: Road to a Million.’ Credit: Jemma Cox. Copyright: Prime Video.

    The show will launch globally on Prime video on November 10th

    Brian Cox in Prime Video's '007: Road to a Million.'
    Brian Cox in Prime Video’s ‘007: Road to a Million.’ Credit: Jemma Cox. Copyright: Prime Video.

    Other ‘James Bond’ Movies:

    Buy James Bond Movies On Amazon

  • A New James Bond Movie is “Two Years Away from Filming”

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 'Casino Royale.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in ‘Casino Royale.’

    No Time to Die’ – and yes, we’re getting into spoiler territory for anyone who has yet to watch the most recent James Bond movie – put a definite capper on the Daniel Craig era of the super spy by killing off the character in a giant explosion.

    So where does that leave Bond going forward, because the movie still also carried the “James Bond will return” tagline at the end of the credits? Those decisions are all up to Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the producing duo who have overseen the Bond franchise for years now.

    And they won’t be drawn on who might be filling the role just yet, as the focus is on how they’re going to re-invent the character and the franchise as a whole in the post-Craig period.

    Speaking at a glitzy event in London to honor Broccoli and Wilson as they receive BFI fellowships, Broccoli addressed the question of just who might be filling the tuxedo/combat uniform/whatever Bond feels like wearing going forward.

    “Nobody’s in the running,” she told Deadline. “We’re working out where to go with him, we’re talking that through. There isn’t a script and we can’t come up with one until we decide how we’re going to approach the next film because, really, it’s a reinvention of Bond. We’re reinventing who he is and that takes time. I’d say that filming is at least two years away.”

    Pierce Brosnan as James Bond in 'Die Another Day.'
    Pierce Brosnan as James Bond in ‘Die Another Day.’

    It’s bad news for Bond fans who now face a long wait for more movies, though let’s not forget that it was four years between the end of Pierce Brosnan’s tenure in ‘Die Another Day’ and the start of Craig’s in ‘Casino Royale’.

    And figuring out a new Bond is a complicated process, particularly as Broccoli, Wilson and their team have always looked to present a new, evolving take on 007 between each new actor.

    Craig’s Bond was considerably different than most of the versions that had come before it, and while the character is one that has resisted too much change back in the past, the current incarnation was a much more modern vision for the man.

    And while the event was a star-studded event to celebrate the producing pair, it was also attended by the likes of Ralph Fiennes and Naomie Harris, who played Bond’s boss M and agent Moneypenny in several of the Craig films. “Naomie and I are the people to fix it,” Fiennes joked. “You find him and we’ll train him.”

    That, of course, assumes that a “reinvention” of Bond doesn’t mean a change in M and Moneypenny (though Judi Dench’s M, of course, reoccurred between the Brosnan and Craig Bonds).

    So yes, it does seem that if there are any villains waiting around to say, “I’ve been expecting you…”, they’re going to have to keep on waiting a fair bit longer. Maybe fire up Candy Crush on your phone?

    James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) in 'No Time To Die.'
    (L to R) James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) drive through Matera, Italy in ‘No Time To Die,’
    a DANJAQ and Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film. Credit: Nicola Dove. © 2019 DANJAQ, LLC AND MGM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
  • Ana de Armas is Marilyn Monroe in the ‘Blonde’ Teaser

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    Mostly what we’ve heard of the new film from ‘Killing Them Softly’ director Andrew Dominik has been about its controversial NC-17 rating. Now, for the first time in teaser form, we’re getting our first – chaste – look at ‘Blonde’.

    Knives Out’ and ‘No Time to Die’ actor Ana de Armas stars in the new movie, which finds Dominik adapting the bestselling novel by Joyce Carol Oates.

    ‘Blonde’ aims to reimagine the life of one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons, Marilyn Monroe. From her volatile childhood as Norma Jeane, through her rise to stardom and romantic entanglements, ‘Blonde’ blurs the lines of fact and fiction to explore the widening split between her public and private selves.

    The teaser makes this very clear – an emotional Norma Jeane, shy and withdrawn, slowly transforms into the sparkly Marilyn that is seen on stages and screens. There are glimpses from elsewhere in the movie, though it’s mostly her public persona.

    And, of course, we’re treated to a slowed down/distorted cover of a song, in this case, “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend”, as performed by Marylin in 1953’s ‘Gentlemen Prefer Blondes’, with the scene recreated in the new movie.

    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's 'Blonde.'
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix’s ‘Blonde.’

    “Andrew’s ambitions were very clear from the start — to present a version of Marilyn Monroe’s life through her lens,” says de Armas. “He wanted the world to experience what it actually felt like to not only be Marilyn, but also Norma Jeane. I found that to be the most daring, unapologetic, and feminist take on her story that I had ever seen.”

    This take on her experiences gave Dominik real scope to explore the private life of an icon. “She’s deeply traumatized, and that trauma necessitates a split between a public self and a private self, which is the story of everyone, but with a famous person, that often plays out publicly, in ways that may cause additional trauma,” he says. “The film’s very much concerned with the relationship with herself and with this other persona, Marilyn, which is both her armor and the thing that is threatening to consume her.”

    He’d also prefer that people focus less on the perceived wrangling over the NC-17 rating. The film is sincere. It’s made with love. It’s made with good intentions. But it’s full of rage at the same time,” says Dominik, “I seem to get myself in these situations where people regard me as provocative, but it’s never what I’m trying to do. I’m just trying to say it as clearly as I can. My ambition is to make you fall in love with Marilyn.”

    A strong supporting cast plays a variety of characters, some with codenames such as “The Playwright” – who is surely Arthur Miller – and “The Ex-Athlete” – Joe DiMaggio, one of Marilyn’s other famous husbands. The ensemble includes Adrien Brody, Bobby Cannavale, Toby Huss, Julianne Nicholson, Spencer Garrett, Scoot McNairy, and Garret Dillahunt.

    ‘Blonde’ will arrive on Netflix on September 23rd.

    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's 'Blonde.'
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix’s ‘Blonde.’
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's 'Blonde.'
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix’s ‘Blonde.’
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix's 'Blonde.'
    Ana de Armas as Marilyn Monroe in Netflix’s ‘Blonde.’
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  • Danny Boyle Talks His Scrapped Plans for ‘No Time to Die’

    Daniel Craig in 'No Time To Die.'
    James Bond (Daniel Craig) prepares to shoot in ‘No Time To Die,’ a Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film. Credit: Nicola Dove. © 2019 DANJAQ, LLC AND MGM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    Danny Boyle has made one of the most entertaining Bond films in history.

    Sadly, that isn’t ‘No Time To Die’, which scored plaudits of its own last year. Instead, the director behind the likes of ‘Trainspotting’, ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ and ‘127 Hours’ created a short to play during the opening of the 2012 Olympics in London (for which he was overseeing the much-loved opening ceremony) wherein Daniel Craig’s 007 and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II leapt from a helicopter to skydive into London’s Olympic Stadium.

    Still, Boyle nearly made ‘No Time to Die’ – or ‘Bond 25’ as it was known when he signed on to direct in 2018. While he’d established a good relationship with Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson after the Olympics short, his tenure in the director’s chair was short-lived, and he left a few months after getting the gig.

    Rumors swirling about disagreements to do with tone, content, and villain choice (including the notion that Boyle was pushing for Bond to die, which we have since learned was the plan pretty much from the start and made it to the final cut of ‘No Time to Die’. Now, though, Boyle, talking to UK magazine Esquire, has opened up about his time on the spy franchise.

    “I remember thinking, ‘Should I really get involved in franchises?’ Because they don’t really want something different,” Boyle tells the magazine. “They want you to freshen it up a bit, but not really challenge it, and we wanted to do something different with it.”

    Director Danny Boyle.
    Director Danny Boyle. Photo courtesy of FX.

    He goes on to explain his concept: “Weirdly — it would have been very topical now — it was all set in Russia, which is of course where Bond came from, out of the Cold War. It was set in present-day Russia and went back to his origins, and they just lost, what’s the word… They just lost confidence in it.”

    Boyle had been working with his regular collaborator, John Hodge (writer of several Boyle movies including ‘Shallow Grave’ and ‘The Beach’) to develop their ideas and one of their big inventions did end up in the latest film, albeit in altered fashion. “The idea that they used in a different way was the one of Bond’s child, which John introduced, and which was wonderful,” he says.

    The Bond films are, of course, trundling on regardless, and while we’re sorry that Boyle didn’t get to bring his vision to screens, he’s seemingly content with not going back to that world.

    Still, since ‘No Time to Die’ marks the end of Daniel Craig’s run as Bond, who would Boyle like to see? Turns out, he’s a big fan of ‘I May Destroy You’ and ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ star Paapa Essiedu and, though the actor is quite busy with another giant franchise (cowl, Batsuit, you may have heard of it), Robert Pattinson is someone he thinks could make a good Bond.

    As for Boyle himself, he has Sex Pistols miniseries ‘Pistol’ headed to TV screens via FX and Hulu on May 31st.

    James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) in 'No Time To Die.'
    (L to R) James Bond (Daniel Craig) and Dr. Madeleine Swann (Léa Seydoux) drive through Matera, Italy in ‘No Time To Die,’ a DANJAQ and Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures film. Credit: Nicola Dove. © 2019 DANJAQ, LLC AND MGM. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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  • Amazon Greenlights Bond Reality Competition

    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012's 'Skyfall.'
    Daniel Craig as James Bond in 2012’s ‘Skyfall.’

    Mere weeks after Amazon officially closed its $8.5 billion acquisition of MGM, the company has announced its first Bond-related project: a reality TV competition series.

    Prime Video has flashed the greenlight for ‘007’s Road to a Million’, a series that will see competitors shaken and stirred as they’re dispatched on a challenging race and series of trivia questions in a quest for a cash prize. Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson, the shepherds of the Bond franchise, are involved, and it’ll kick off shooting later this year.

    Yet while the announcement has led to a ripple of panic online that this is the future of the Bond movie series and a clear indication that Amazon’s purchase of MGM means a wave of junk Bond spin-off opportunities, this show has been in the works for years, long before the MGM deal closed, and something that has the backing of Broccoli and Wilson.

    “I first had this idea over three years ago. Dan Grabiner and the U.K. Originals team took it to a whole other level, says 72 Film boss David Glover, whose company will be producing the show for Amazon, MGM, and EON, tells Variety. “To be working with Michael Wilson and Barbara Broccoli and the Bond franchise is a privilege and a dream come true.”

    Sean Connery as James Bond
    Sean Connery as James Bond in 1964’s ‘Goldfinger’

    Sounding a lot like a Bond-branded version of CBS series ‘The Amazing Race’, the show will see contestants competing in a global adventure to win a £1 million ($1.3 million) cash prize. Filmed in many of the historic locations featured throughout the seminal Bond films, this will be a test of intelligence and endurance. In addition to passing physical obstacles, the contestants — who will compete in two-person teams — must correctly answer questions hidden in different locations around the world to advance to the next challenge.

    It seems unlikely to dip too far into Bond’s history – the famously sexist spy has been modernized in recent years, so while it’ll see competitors heading to locations, we doubt challenges will include unzipping a dress with a magnetic watch or shooting as many nameless henchmen as possible. And though they could end up mixing martinis, they probably won’t have to match the spy’s alcohol consumption levels.

    The show comes at a point of transition for big-screen Bond: Daniel Craig’s tenure as 007 is over following ‘No Time to Die’, which has earned more than $774 million at the worldwide box office. Broccoli and Wilson are now tasked with finding a fresh face to take on the role and keep the film series evolving to meet the demands of a changing cultural and cinematic world.

    This competition won’t end up with the winner claiming the role of Bond, but if you want to apply for the show – UK residents and those who can prove a direct connection to the country only, we’re afraid – you can head to this link.

    And if you get in? Do pay attention, 007.

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