Yet, Broccoli and Wilson realize that they’re making movies in an environment very different from that of their father, which presents unique challenges. For one, MGM Studios, with whom Eon makes Bond movies, is now owned by retail giant Amazon, which has its own streaming service. While venerable companies such as Paramount and Warner Bros. are putting streaming services ahead of theaters, The Independent notes that Broccoli and Wilson are “adamant about theatrical.”
Perhaps the biggest challenge involves choosing the next Bond. “Every time we cast a new actor, the films change. It’s the excitement of a new Bond, a new direction,” said Wilson. “Every one of these people who took on the role offered something new and different.”
Indeed, Craig’s appointment brought with it a reboot in terms of tone, going gritty and grounded against the goofy style of Pierce Brosnan and Moore. Whomever the siblings choose for the next Bond will likely usher in yet another change in approach. That fact has led many to call for a person of color to take on the part, with Idris Elba and Dev Patel as the most popular names floated through the years. But even the apparent rumored choice Aaron Taylor-Johnson has a strong comedic resume (Kraven the Hunter‘s a comedy, right?), offering a chance to go more light-hearted.
Given the high stakes of both the franchise’s legacy and the nature of blockbuster filmmaking today, it’s understandable that Broccoli and Wilson would take their time deciding on the new direction. Let’s just hope it doesn’t build up more anticipation than any choice could possibly meet.
All we know for sure is that James Bond will return.