James Bond Amazon gets control

I have written about James Bond in the past. Briefly wrote about the ownership. Small paragraph that worth revisiting.

The Broccoli family has diligently safeguarded control over the Bond franchise. Danjaq holds the copyright for the film series. The first twenty Bond movies are co-owned by Danjaq and MGM, while the remainder belong to Danjaq, MGM, and Columbia Pictures (a Sony subsidiary). Eon Productions, owned by the Broccoli family, meticulously oversees all Bond projects. Their level of control rivals J.K. Rowling’s veto power over the Harry Potter franchise.

Danjaq is owned and managed by Broccoli family, Eon Productions is also owned and operated by Broccoli. Franchise is creative direction and production is owned by this family. Why is that important? Well because we just got news that is changing.

Amazon MGM has gained control over creative control and production. Amazon MGM, Wilson, and Broccoli have come to an agreement. A new joint venture to house the property rights. All three remain co-owners, but creative control goes to Amazon. Ending 60 years of control for Wilson and Broccoli family. Both have retired from producing films. What does this mean for Eon productions? I have no idea. Looks like Sony has sold to Amazon. I can’t find anything on that just a guess.

So what does this mean?

Well, two producers protecting Bond legacy are gone. Made it clear they want theatre releases, not just prime only. Long stalemate after last release in 2021. Last year it was reported nothing was happening. It was an open secret that Broccoli and Amazon did not agree. For whatever reason, they have handled control over to Amazon. Giving up the fight but not the pay day if it works out. Bond brand could now appear anywhere, for years it was protected and guarded. Now a big tech company with a studio has full control. I’m worried yes.

It fine, I have my memories of bond and what it means to me. If they screw this up, I won’t watch it or buy anything. They have big shoes to fill.